AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsQuidel Corporation (QDEL)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$168.10
+0.16%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $257.57B
QDEL
Quidel Corporation
$10.94
+0.74%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $866.79M
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 2195% more annual revenue ($61.37B vs $2.67B). AZN leads profitability with a 17.0% profit margin vs -39.2%. AZN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.19. AZN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C+).
AZN
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
QDEL
Hold42
out of 100
Grade: D
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+15.2%
Fair Value
$195.81
Current Price
$168.10
$27.71 discount
Margin of Safety
+87.9%
Fair Value
$238.33
Current Price
$10.94
$227.39 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 23.5%
Generating 2.1B in free cash flow
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
2.5% earnings growth
Distress zone — elevated risk
Expensive relative to growth rate
2.8% revenue growth
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
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 17.0% and operating margin at 23.5%. PEG of 1.19 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : QDEL
The strongest argument for QDEL centers on Price/Book.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are EPS Growth, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : QDEL
The primary concerns for QDEL are PEG Ratio, Revenue Growth, Market Cap. Debt-to-equity of 1.73 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AZN profiles as a mature stock while QDEL is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.
QDEL carries more volatility with a beta of 0.68 — 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 42/100), backed by strong 17.0% margins. QDEL offers better value entry with a 87.9% margin of safety. Both earn "Buy" and "Hold" 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.
Quidel Corporation
HEALTHCARE · MEDICAL DEVICES · USA
Quidel Corporation develops, manufactures, and markets diagnostic testing solutions for infectious disease, cardiology, thyroid, general and women's health, eye health, gastrointestinal disease, and toxicology applications globally. The company is headquartered in San Diego, California.
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