Estee Lauder Companies Inc (EL)vsStrategic Education Inc (STRA)
EL
Estee Lauder Companies Inc
$76.71
+1.35%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $27.38B
STRA
Strategic Education Inc
$78.40
-0.72%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $1.80B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Estee Lauder Companies Inc generates 1055% more annual revenue ($14.67B vs $1.27B). STRA leads profitability with a 10.2% profit margin vs -1.2%. STRA appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.70. STRA earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 62/100 (C+).
EL
Hold43
out of 100
Grade: D
STRA
Buy62
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+35.3%
Fair Value
$162.86
Current Price
$76.71
$86.15 discount
Margin of Safety
+73.4%
Fair Value
$290.12
Current Price
$78.40
$211.72 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Generating 1.0B in free cash flow
Reasonable price relative to book value
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Growing faster than its price suggests
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Areas to Watch
Distress zone — elevated risk
Weak financial health signals
ROE of -4.3% — below average capital efficiency
Earnings declined 51.6%
0.8% revenue growth
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
ROE of 7.9% — below average capital efficiency
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : EL
The strongest argument for EL centers on Free Cash Flow. PEG of 1.43 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : STRA
The strongest argument for STRA centers on Price/Book, Altman Z-Score, PEG Ratio. PEG of 0.70 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : EL
The primary concerns for EL are Altman Z-Score, Piotroski F-Score, Return on Equity. Debt-to-equity of 2.74 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : STRA
The primary concerns for STRA are Revenue Growth, Market Cap, Return on Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
EL profiles as a turnaround stock while STRA is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
EL carries more volatility with a beta of 1.25 — expect wider price swings.
EL is growing revenue faster at 5.6% — sustainability is the question.
EL generates stronger free cash flow (1.0B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
STRA scores higher overall (62/100 vs 43/100). EL offers better value entry with a 35.3% 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.
Estee Lauder Companies Inc
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · HOUSEHOLD & PERSONAL PRODUCTS · USA
The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. is an American multinational manufacturer and marketer of prestige skincare, makeup, fragrance and hair care products, based in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. The company owns a diverse portfolio of brands, distributed internationally through both digital commerce and retail channels.
Visit Website →Strategic Education Inc
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · EDUCATION & TRAINING SERVICES · USA
Strategic Education, Inc., offers postsecondary education and non-degree programs. The company is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia.
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