American Express Company (AXP)vsFirstCash Inc (FCFS)
AXP
American Express Company
$300.24
-0.58%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $208.03B
FCFS
FirstCash Inc
$190.43
-3.01%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $8.66B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
American Express Company generates 1729% more annual revenue ($66.97B vs $3.66B). AXP leads profitability with a 16.2% profit margin vs 9.0%. FCFS appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.17. AXP earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 66/100 (B-).
AXP
Strong Buy66
out of 100
Grade: B-
FCFS
Buy64
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+41.4%
Fair Value
$512.74
Current Price
$300.24
$212.50 discount
Margin of Safety
+47.5%
Fair Value
$347.26
Current Price
$190.43
$156.83 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 34 in profit
Generating 2.3B in free cash flow
19.8% revenue growth
Earnings expanding 27.0% YoY
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Elevated debt levels
Distress zone — elevated risk
Moderate valuation
Elevated debt levels
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AXP
The strongest argument for AXP centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Free Cash Flow. Profitability is solid with margins at 16.2% and operating margin at 17.5%. Revenue growth of 10.6% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : FCFS
The strongest argument for FCFS centers on Revenue Growth, EPS Growth. Revenue growth of 19.8% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.17 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : AXP
The primary concerns for AXP are PEG Ratio, Debt/Equity, Altman Z-Score. Debt-to-equity of 1.73 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : FCFS
The primary concerns for FCFS are P/E Ratio, Debt/Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AXP profiles as a mature stock while FCFS is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
AXP carries more volatility with a beta of 1.15 — expect wider price swings.
FCFS is growing revenue faster at 19.8% — sustainability is the question.
AXP generates stronger free cash flow (2.3B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AXP scores higher overall (66/100 vs 64/100), backed by strong 16.2% margins and 10.6% revenue growth. FCFS offers better value entry with a 47.5% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong 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.
American Express Company
FINANCIAL SERVICES · CREDIT SERVICES · USA
The American Express Company is a multinational financial services corporation headquartered at 200 Vesey Street in the Battery Park City neighborhood of Lower Manhattan in New York City.
Visit Website →FirstCash Inc
FINANCIAL SERVICES · CREDIT SERVICES · USA
FirstCash, Inc., operates retail pawn shops in the United States and Latin America. The company is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas.
Visit Website →Compare with Other CREDIT SERVICES Stocks
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