American Public Education Inc (APEI)vsGrand Canyon Education Inc (LOPE)
APEI
American Public Education Inc
$56.18
+1.24%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $990.52M
LOPE
Grand Canyon Education Inc
$170.62
+1.58%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $4.70B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Grand Canyon Education Inc generates 70% more annual revenue ($1.11B vs $648.86M). LOPE leads profitability with a 19.5% profit margin vs 4.9%. LOPE appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.11. LOPE earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 66/100 (B-).
APEI
Hold47
out of 100
Grade: D+
LOPE
Strong Buy66
out of 100
Grade: B-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-46.7%
Fair Value
$29.46
Current Price
$56.18
$26.72 premium
Margin of Safety
+11.9%
Fair Value
$181.96
Current Price
$170.62
$11.34 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
No standout strengths identified
Strong operational efficiency at 35.1%
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 28 in profit
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
4.9% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : APEI
APEI has a balanced fundamental profile.
Bull Case : LOPE
The strongest argument for LOPE centers on Operating Margin, Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 19.5% and operating margin at 35.1%. PEG of 1.11 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : APEI
The primary concerns for APEI are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Market Cap. Thin 4.9% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : LOPE
The primary concerns for LOPE are Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
APEI profiles as a value stock while LOPE is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
APEI carries more volatility with a beta of 1.66 — expect wider price swings.
LOPE is growing revenue faster at 5.3% — sustainability is the question.
LOPE generates stronger free cash flow (123M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
LOPE scores higher overall (66/100 vs 47/100), backed by strong 19.5% margins. Both earn "Strong 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.
American Public Education Inc
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · EDUCATION & TRAINING SERVICES · USA
American Public Education, Inc. offers postsecondary education online and on campus. The company is headquartered in Charles Town, West Virginia.
Grand Canyon Education Inc
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · EDUCATION & TRAINING SERVICES · USA
Grand Canyon Education, Inc. provides educational services to colleges and universities in the United States. The company is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona.
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