AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsNational HealthCare Corporation (NHC)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$160.17
+0.33%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $252.33B
NHC
National HealthCare Corporation
$224.47
-0.20%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $3.56B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 3836% more annual revenue ($61.37B vs $1.56B). AZN leads profitability with a 17.0% profit margin vs 9.0%. NHC appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.82. NHC earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 61/100 (C+).
AZN
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
NHC
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+18.4%
Fair Value
$196.10
Current Price
$160.17
$35.93 discount
Margin of Safety
-65.7%
Fair Value
$101.60
Current Price
$224.47
$122.87 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
Earnings expanding 67.1% YoY
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Growing faster than its price suggests
Areas to Watch
2.5% earnings growth
Distress zone — elevated risk
No major concerns identified
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 : NHC
The strongest argument for NHC centers on EPS Growth, Debt/Equity, Altman Z-Score. PEG of 0.82 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are EPS Growth, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : NHC
No major red flags identified for NHC, but monitor valuation.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AZN profiles as a mature stock while NHC is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
NHC carries more volatility with a beta of 0.63 — expect wider price swings.
NHC is growing revenue faster at 8.8% — sustainability is the question.
AZN generates stronger free cash flow (2.1B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
NHC scores higher overall (61/100 vs 60/100). AZN offers better value entry with a 18.4% margin of safety. 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.
National HealthCare Corporation
HEALTHCARE · MEDICAL CARE FACILITIES · USA
National HealthCare Corporation operates, manages, and provides services to skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, independent living facilities, home health programs, and a behavioral health hospital. The company is headquartered in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
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