Murphy USA Inc (MUSA)vsUlta Beauty Inc (ULTA)
MUSA
Murphy USA Inc
$546.51
+1.25%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $11.50B
ULTA
Ulta Beauty Inc
$467.07
+0.98%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $20.11B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Murphy USA Inc generates 36% more annual revenue ($17.30B vs $12.71B). ULTA leads profitability with a 9.4% profit margin vs 3.2%. MUSA appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.51. ULTA earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 63/100 (C+).
MUSA
Buy62
out of 100
Grade: C+
ULTA
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for MUSA.
Margin of Safety
-23.0%
Fair Value
$555.27
Current Price
$467.07
$88.20 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 89 in profit
Earnings expanding 176.8% YoY
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 46 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 15.3x book value
3.2% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.8%
Expensive relative to growth rate
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : MUSA
The strongest argument for MUSA centers on Return on Equity, EPS Growth, Altman Z-Score.
Bull Case : ULTA
The strongest argument for ULTA centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, P/E Ratio. Revenue growth of 11.1% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : MUSA
The primary concerns for MUSA are PEG Ratio, Price/Book, Profit Margin. Debt-to-equity of 4.08 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 3.2% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : ULTA
The primary concerns for ULTA are PEG Ratio, Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
ULTA carries more volatility with a beta of 0.86 — expect wider price swings.
ULTA is growing revenue faster at 11.1% — sustainability is the question.
MUSA generates stronger free cash flow (222M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor SPECIALTY RETAIL industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
ULTA scores higher overall (63/100 vs 62/100) and 11.1% revenue growth. 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.
Murphy USA Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · SPECIALTY RETAIL · USA
Murphy USA Inc. is engaged in the marketing of retail motor fuel products and convenience merchandise. The company is headquartered in El Dorado, Arkansas.
Visit Website →Ulta Beauty Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · SPECIALTY RETAIL · USA
Ulta Beauty, Inc., formerly known as Ulta Salon, Cosmetics & Fragrance Inc., is an American chain of beauty stores headquartered in Bolingbrook, Illinois. Ulta Beauty carries cosmetics and skincare brands, men's and women's fragrances, nail products, bath and body products, beauty tools and haircare products.
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