IQVIA Holdings Inc (IQV)vsVertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (VRTX)
IQV
IQVIA Holdings Inc
$165.64
-0.27%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $28.11B
VRTX
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc
$454.97
+1.42%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $113.95B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
IQVIA Holdings Inc generates 36% more annual revenue ($16.31B vs $12.00B). VRTX leads profitability with a 32.9% profit margin vs 8.3%. IQV appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.97. IQV earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 72/100 (B).
IQV
Strong Buy72
out of 100
Grade: B
VRTX
Strong Buy66
out of 100
Grade: B-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+49.1%
Fair Value
$348.46
Current Price
$165.64
$182.82 discount
Margin of Safety
+36.5%
Fair Value
$716.04
Current Price
$454.97
$261.07 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 21 in profit
Growing faster than its price suggests
Earnings expanding 23.6% YoY
Keeps 33 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 39.6%
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 23 in profit
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Areas to Watch
Distress zone — elevated risk
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : IQV
The strongest argument for IQV centers on Return on Equity, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth. Revenue growth of 10.3% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 0.97 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 32.9% and operating margin at 39.6%.
Bear Case : IQV
The primary concerns for IQV are Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : VRTX
The primary concerns for VRTX are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
IQV profiles as a value stock while VRTX is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
IQV carries more volatility with a beta of 1.41 — expect wider price swings.
IQV is growing revenue faster at 10.3% — sustainability is the question.
IQV generates stronger free cash flow (561M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
IQV scores higher overall (72/100 vs 66/100) and 10.3% revenue growth. VRTX offers better value entry with a 36.5% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Strong 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.
IQVIA Holdings Inc
HEALTHCARE · DIAGNOSTICS & RESEARCH · USA
IQVIA, formerly Quintiles and IMS Health, Inc., is an American multinational company serving the combined industries of health information technology and clinical research. It is a provider of biopharmaceutical development and commercial outsourcing services, focused primarily on Phase I-IV clinical trials and associated laboratory and analytical services, including consulting services.
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc
HEALTHCARE · BIOTECHNOLOGY · USA
Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is an American biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts.
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