AutoNation Inc (AN)vsLowe's Companies Inc (LOW)
AN
AutoNation Inc
$203.38
-0.94%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $7.22B
LOW
Lowe's Companies Inc
$245.19
+0.55%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $137.32B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Lowe's Companies Inc generates 212% more annual revenue ($86.29B vs $27.63B). LOW leads profitability with a 7.7% profit margin vs 2.4%. AN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.74. AN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 58/100 (C).
AN
Buy58
out of 100
Grade: C
LOW
Hold44
out of 100
Grade: D
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-37.4%
Fair Value
$151.23
Current Price
$203.38
$52.15 premium
Margin of Safety
-47.0%
Fair Value
$166.85
Current Price
$245.19
$78.34 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 27 in profit
Growing faster than its price suggests
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Large-cap with strong market position
Areas to Watch
1.3% earnings growth
2.4% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.0%
Weak financial health signals
ROE of 0.0% — below average capital efficiency
7.7% margin — thin
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 11.0%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AN
The strongest argument for AN centers on Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity, PEG Ratio. PEG of 0.74 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : LOW
The strongest argument for LOW centers on Debt/Equity, Market Cap. Revenue growth of 10.9% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AN
The primary concerns for AN are EPS Growth, Profit Margin, Operating Margin. Thin 2.4% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : LOW
The primary concerns for LOW are Return on Equity, Profit Margin, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
LOW carries more volatility with a beta of 0.96 — expect wider price swings.
LOW is growing revenue faster at 10.9% — sustainability is the question.
LOW generates stronger free cash flow (964M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
AN scores higher overall (58/100 vs 44/100). Both earn "Buy" and "Hold" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
AutoNation Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS · USA
AutoNation, Inc. is an automobile retailer in the United States. The company is headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Lowe's Companies Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · HOME IMPROVEMENT RETAIL · USA
Lowe's Companies, Inc. is an American retail company specializing in home improvement. Headquartered in Mooresville, North Carolina, the company operates a chain of retail stores in the United States and Canada.
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