AutoNation Inc (AN)vsPalo Alto Networks Inc (PANW)
AN
AutoNation Inc
$205.97
+0.33%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $6.88B
PANW
Palo Alto Networks Inc
$207.88
+5.78%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $159.39B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AutoNation Inc generates 178% more annual revenue ($27.49B vs $9.89B). PANW leads profitability with a 13.0% profit margin vs 2.5%. AN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.74. AN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 63/100 (C+).
AN
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
PANW
Buy56
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+15.1%
Fair Value
$244.66
Current Price
$205.97
$38.69 discount
Margin of Safety
+54.1%
Fair Value
$452.64
Current Price
$207.88
$244.76 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 29 in profit
Growing faster than its price suggests
Earnings expanding 31.5% YoY
Earnings expanding 60.5% YoY
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Large-cap with strong market position
Areas to Watch
2.5% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.7%
Weak financial health signals
Revenue declined 2.1%
Trading at 15.6x book value
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AN
The strongest argument for AN centers on P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity. PEG of 0.74 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : PANW
The strongest argument for PANW centers on EPS Growth, Debt/Equity, Market Cap. Revenue growth of 14.9% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AN
The primary concerns for AN are Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Piotroski F-Score. Thin 2.5% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : PANW
The primary concerns for PANW are Price/Book, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio. A P/E of 109.2x leaves little room for execution misses.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AN carries more volatility with a beta of 0.79 — expect wider price swings.
PANW is growing revenue faster at 14.9% — sustainability is the question.
PANW generates stronger free cash flow (470M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
AN scores higher overall (63/100 vs 56/100). PANW offers better value entry with a 54.1% margin of safety. 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.
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.
Palo Alto Networks Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SOFTWARE - INFRASTRUCTURE · USA
Palo Alto Networks, Inc. provides cybersecurity platform solutions globally. The company is headquartered in Santa Clara, California.
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