AutoNation Inc (AN)vsWPP PLC ADR (WPP)
AN
AutoNation Inc
$205.97
+0.33%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $6.88B
WPP
WPP PLC ADR
$18.97
+1.12%
COMMUNICATION SERVICES · Cap: $4.05B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AutoNation Inc generates 103% more annual revenue ($27.49B vs $13.55B). AN leads profitability with a 2.5% profit margin vs -1.6%. 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+
WPP
Avoid32
out of 100
Grade: F
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
+75.6%
Fair Value
$75.12
Current Price
$18.97
$56.15 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
Generating 1.7B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
2.5% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.7%
Weak financial health signals
Revenue declined 2.1%
Operating margin of 2.2%
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
ROE of -5.3% — below average capital efficiency
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 : WPP
The strongest argument for WPP centers on Free Cash Flow.
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 : WPP
The primary concerns for WPP are Operating Margin, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio. Debt-to-equity of 2.13 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AN profiles as a value stock while WPP is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.
AN carries more volatility with a beta of 0.79 — expect wider price swings.
AN is growing revenue faster at -2.1% — sustainability is the question.
WPP generates stronger free cash flow (1.7B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AN scores higher overall (63/100 vs 32/100). WPP offers better value entry with a 75.6% margin of safety. Both earn "Buy" and "Avoid" 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.
WPP PLC ADR
COMMUNICATION SERVICES · ADVERTISING AGENCIES · USA
WPP plc, a creative transformation company, provides communications, expertise, trade and technology services in North America, the UK, Western Continental Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Central and Eastern Europe. The company is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.
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