AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsNovavax Inc (NVAX)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$160.17
+0.33%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $252.33B
NVAX
Novavax Inc
$9.42
+1.29%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $1.62B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 14730% more annual revenue ($61.37B vs $413.80M). AZN leads profitability with a 17.0% profit margin vs -59.9%. 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+
NVAX
Avoid28
out of 100
Grade: F
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+18.4%
Fair Value
$196.10
Current Price
$160.17
$35.93 discount
Intrinsic value data unavailable for NVAX.
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
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Areas to Watch
2.5% earnings growth
Distress zone — elevated risk
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
ROE of -898.0% — below average capital efficiency
Revenue declined 76.3%
Earnings declined 38.1%
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 : NVAX
The strongest argument for NVAX centers on Debt/Equity. PEG of 1.32 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 : NVAX
The primary concerns for NVAX are Market Cap, Return on Equity, Revenue Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AZN profiles as a mature stock while NVAX is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.
NVAX carries more volatility with a beta of 2.45 — expect wider price swings.
AZN is growing revenue faster at 6.4% — sustainability is the question.
AZN generates stronger free cash flow (2.1B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AZN scores higher overall (60/100 vs 28/100), backed by strong 17.0% margins. Both earn "Buy" and "Avoid" 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.
Novavax Inc
HEALTHCARE · BIOTECHNOLOGY · USA
Novavax, Inc., a biotechnology company, focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of vaccines to prevent serious infectious diseases and address health needs. The company is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland.
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