Johnson & Johnson (JNJ)vsVertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (VRTX)
JNJ
Johnson & Johnson
$239.93
+1.98%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $567.22B
VRTX
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc
$454.97
+1.42%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $113.95B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Johnson & Johnson generates 685% more annual revenue ($94.19B vs $12.00B). VRTX leads profitability with a 32.9% profit margin vs 28.5%. JNJ appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.65. JNJ earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 71/100 (B).
JNJ
Strong Buy71
out of 100
Grade: B
VRTX
Strong Buy66
out of 100
Grade: B-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+54.5%
Fair Value
$516.67
Current Price
$239.93
$276.74 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
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 35 in profit
Keeps 28 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 24.0%
Earnings expanding 48.6% YoY
Generating 5.5B in free cash flow
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
Expensive relative to growth rate
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : JNJ
The strongest argument for JNJ centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Profit Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 28.5% and operating margin at 24.0%.
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 : JNJ
The primary concerns for JNJ are PEG Ratio.
Bear Case : VRTX
The primary concerns for VRTX are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
JNJ carries more volatility with a beta of 0.33 — expect wider price swings.
VRTX is growing revenue faster at 9.5% — sustainability is the question.
JNJ generates stronger free cash flow (5.5B), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
JNJ scores higher overall (71/100 vs 66/100), backed by strong 28.5% margins. 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.
Johnson & Johnson
HEALTHCARE · DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL · USA
Johnson & Johnson (J&J) is an American multinational corporation founded in 1886 that develops medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and consumer packaged goods. Its common stock is a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the company is ranked No. 36 on the 2021 Fortune 500 list of the largest United States corporations by total revenue. Johnson & Johnson is one of the world's most valuable companies, and is one of only two U.S.-based companies that has a prime credit rating of AAA, higher than that of the United States government.
Visit Website →Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc
HEALTHCARE · BIOTECHNOLOGY · USA
Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is an American biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts.
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