Haleon plc (HLN)vsMerck & Company Inc (MRK)
HLN
Haleon plc
$9.47
-0.21%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $42.18B
MRK
Merck & Company Inc
$110.95
+0.84%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $276.38B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Merck & Company Inc generates 489% more annual revenue ($65.01B vs $11.03B). MRK leads profitability with a 28.1% profit margin vs 15.1%. HLN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.50. HLN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 63/100 (C+).
HLN
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
MRK
Buy59
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-23.0%
Fair Value
$9.07
Current Price
$9.47
$0.40 premium
Margin of Safety
-15.1%
Fair Value
$96.48
Current Price
$110.95
$14.47 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Earnings expanding 92.0% YoY
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 23.2%
Generating 1.3B in free cash flow
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 37 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 32.8%
Keeps 28 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Generating 1.8B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
0.6% revenue growth
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 19.3%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : HLN
The strongest argument for HLN centers on EPS Growth, Price/Book, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 15.1% and operating margin at 23.2%.
Bull Case : MRK
The strongest argument for MRK centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 28.1% and operating margin at 32.8%.
Bear Case : HLN
The primary concerns for HLN are PEG Ratio, Revenue Growth.
Bear Case : MRK
The primary concerns for MRK are Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
HLN carries more volatility with a beta of 0.33 — expect wider price swings.
MRK is growing revenue faster at 5.0% — sustainability is the question.
MRK generates stronger free cash flow (1.8B), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor DRUG MANUFACTURERS - SPECIALTY & GENERIC industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
HLN scores higher overall (63/100 vs 59/100), backed by strong 15.1% margins. 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.
Haleon plc
HEALTHCARE · DRUG MANUFACTURERS - SPECIALTY & GENERIC · USA
Haleon plc (HLN) is a prominent global player in the consumer health sector, dedicated to providing innovative health solutions through its diverse portfolio, which includes renowned brands like Sensodyne, Panadol, and Voltaren. Established as a spin-off from GlaxoSmithKline, the company leverages its strong brand equity to cater to critical health segments such as oral care, pain relief, and dietary supplements. Committed to sustainability and consumer-centric innovation, Haleon is strategically positioned to enhance health outcomes worldwide while pursuing growth and generating value for its shareholders through targeted investments and continuous product development.
Visit Website →Merck & Company Inc
HEALTHCARE · DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL · USA
Merck & Co. is an American multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Kenilworth, New Jersey. It is named after the Merck family, which set up Merck Group in Germany in 1668.
Visit Website →Compare with Other DRUG MANUFACTURERS - SPECIALTY & GENERIC Stocks
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