AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsIQVIA Holdings Inc (IQV)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$173.30
-1.09%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $261.94B
IQV
IQVIA Holdings Inc
$247.56
+1.90%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $34.03B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 263% more annual revenue ($60.44B vs $16.63B). AZN leads profitability with a 17.2% profit margin vs 8.3%. IQV appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.83. AZN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 64/100 (C+).
AZN
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
IQV
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+10.7%
Fair Value
$193.96
Current Price
$173.30
$20.66 discount
Margin of Safety
+8.8%
Fair Value
$194.22
Current Price
$247.56
$53.34 discount
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 27.9%
Generating 2.1B in free cash flow
Every $100 of equity generates 22 in profit
Growing faster than its price suggests
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
Distress zone — elevated risk
Moderate valuation
Weak financial health signals
Distress zone — elevated risk
Elevated debt levels
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 : IQV
The strongest argument for IQV centers on Return on Equity, PEG Ratio. PEG of 0.83 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : IQV
The primary concerns for IQV are P/E Ratio, Piotroski F-Score, Altman Z-Score. Debt-to-equity of 2.58 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AZN profiles as a mature stock while IQV is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
IQV carries more volatility with a beta of 1.20 — expect wider price swings.
AZN is growing revenue faster at 12.5% — sustainability is the question.
AZN generates stronger free cash flow (2.1B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AZN scores higher overall (64/100 vs 61/100), 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.
IQVIA Holdings Inc
HEALTHCARE · DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH · USA
IQVIA, formerly Quintiles and IMS Health, Inc., is an American multinational company serving the combined industries of health information technology and clinical research. It is a provider of biopharmaceutical development and commercial outsourcing services, focused primarily on Phase I-IV clinical trials and associated laboratory and analytical services, including consulting services.
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