Merck & Company Inc (MRK)vsProgressive Corp (PGR)
MRK
Merck & Company Inc
$119.37
+2.58%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $287.71B
PGR
Progressive Corp
$202.84
-1.63%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $120.67B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Progressive Corp generates 35% more annual revenue ($87.64B vs $65.01B). MRK leads profitability with a 28.1% profit margin vs 12.9%. MRK appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 3.49. PGR earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 67/100 (B-).
MRK
Buy59
out of 100
Grade: C
PGR
Strong Buy67
out of 100
Grade: B-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-141.2%
Fair Value
$49.50
Current Price
$119.37
$69.87 premium
Margin of Safety
+76.9%
Fair Value
$900.43
Current Price
$202.84
$697.59 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
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
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Every $100 of equity generates 41 in profit
Large-cap with strong market position
Earnings expanding 25.2% YoY
Generating 3.0B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 19.3%
Expensive relative to growth rate
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull 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%.
Bull Case : PGR
The strongest argument for PGR centers on P/E Ratio, Return on Equity, Market Cap. Revenue growth of 12.2% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : MRK
The primary concerns for MRK are Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.
Bear Case : PGR
The primary concerns for PGR are PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
PGR carries more volatility with a beta of 0.29 — expect wider price swings.
PGR is growing revenue faster at 12.2% — sustainability is the question.
PGR generates stronger free cash flow (3.0B), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
PGR scores higher overall (67/100 vs 59/100) and 12.2% revenue growth. Both earn "Strong 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.
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 →Progressive Corp
FINANCIAL SERVICES · INSURANCE - PROPERTY & CASUALTY · USA
The Progressive Corporation is an American insurance company, one of the largest providers of car insurance in the United States. The company insures motorcycles, boats, RVs, and commercial vehicles and provides home insurance through select companies.
Visit Website →Compare with Other DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL Stocks
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