AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsGlaxoSmithKline PLC ADR (GSK)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$166.14
-0.04%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $252.33B
GSK
GlaxoSmithKline PLC ADR
$50.22
-1.65%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $96.40B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 85% more annual revenue ($61.37B vs $33.20B). AZN leads profitability with a 17.0% profit margin vs 14.5%. AZN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.28. AZN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C+).
AZN
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
GSK
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+18.4%
Fair Value
$196.10
Current Price
$166.14
$29.96 discount
Margin of Safety
-25.2%
Fair Value
$46.73
Current Price
$50.22
$3.49 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 21 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 23.5%
Generating 2.1B in free cash flow
Strong operational efficiency at 30.9%
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 27 in profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Generating 2.2B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
2.5% earnings growth
Distress zone — elevated risk
Elevated debt levels
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 69.5%
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 17.0% and operating margin at 23.5%. PEG of 1.28 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : GSK
The strongest argument for GSK centers on Operating Margin, Market Cap, Return on Equity.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are EPS Growth, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : GSK
The primary concerns for GSK are Debt/Equity, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.
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 6.4% — sustainability is the question.
GSK generates stronger free cash flow (2.2B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AZN scores higher overall (60/100 vs 54/100), backed by strong 17.0% margins. 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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