AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsGlaxoSmithKline PLC ADR (GSK)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$185.95
-1.66%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $282.69B
GSK
GlaxoSmithKline PLC ADR
$49.72
+1.47%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $104.69B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 84% more annual revenue ($60.44B vs $32.78B). GSK leads profitability with a 17.8% profit margin vs 17.2%. AZN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.39. AZN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 64/100 (C+).
AZN
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
GSK
Buy58
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+8.2%
Fair Value
$194.77
Current Price
$185.95
$8.82 discount
Margin of Safety
-26.5%
Fair Value
$46.24
Current Price
$49.72
$3.48 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 22 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 27.9%
Generating 1.8B in free cash flow
Strong operational efficiency at 36.3%
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 25 in profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
Distress zone — elevated risk
1.5% revenue growth
Elevated debt levels
Expensive relative to growth rate
Distress zone — elevated risk
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AZN
The strongest argument for AZN centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 17.2% and operating margin at 27.9%. Revenue growth of 12.5% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : GSK
The strongest argument for GSK centers on Operating Margin, Market Cap, Return on Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 17.8% and operating margin at 36.3%.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : GSK
The primary concerns for GSK are Revenue Growth, Debt/Equity, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AZN profiles as a mature stock while GSK is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
GSK carries more volatility with a beta of 0.29 — expect wider price swings.
AZN is growing revenue faster at 12.5% — sustainability is the question.
AZN generates stronger free cash flow (1.8B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AZN scores higher overall (64/100 vs 58/100), backed by strong 17.2% margins and 12.5% revenue growth. Both earn "Buy" and "Buy" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
AstraZeneca PLC
HEALTHCARE · DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL · USA
AstraZeneca PLC discovers, develops, manufactures and markets prescription drugs in the areas of oncology, cardiovascular, renal and metabolism, respiratory, infections, neuroscience and gastroenterology worldwide. The company is headquartered in Cambridge, the United Kingdom.
GlaxoSmithKline PLC ADR
HEALTHCARE · DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL · USA
GlaxoSmithKline plc is dedicated to the creation, discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, over-the-counter drugs and health-related consumer products in the UK, US and internationally. The company is headquartered in Brentford, the United Kingdom.
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