AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsVertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (VRTX)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$161.42
+0.88%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $263.09B
VRTX
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc
$496.07
+2.49%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $121.26B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 388% more annual revenue ($61.37B vs $12.59B). VRTX leads profitability with a 35.0% profit margin vs 17.0%. AZN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.47. VRTX earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 64/100 (C+).
AZN
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
VRTX
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+13.9%
Fair Value
$196.93
Current Price
$161.42
$35.51 discount
Margin of Safety
+50.1%
Fair Value
$971.64
Current Price
$496.07
$475.57 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
Keeps 35 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 38.1%
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 22 in profit
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
2.5% earnings growth
Distress zone — elevated risk
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
Weak financial health signals
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 1.47 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : VRTX
The strongest argument for VRTX centers on Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Altman Z-Score. Profitability is solid with margins at 35.0% and operating margin at 38.1%. Revenue growth of 12.5% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are P/E Ratio, EPS Growth, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : VRTX
The primary concerns for VRTX are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
VRTX carries more volatility with a beta of 0.30 — expect wider price swings.
VRTX is growing revenue faster at 12.5% — sustainability is the question.
AZN generates stronger free cash flow (2.1B), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
VRTX scores higher overall (64/100 vs 60/100), backed by strong 35.0% 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.
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc
HEALTHCARE · BIOTECHNOLOGY · USA
Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is an American biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts.
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