AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsGilead Sciences Inc (GILD)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$160.17
+0.33%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $252.33B
GILD
Gilead Sciences Inc
$143.72
-0.75%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $179.56B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 101% more annual revenue ($61.37B vs $30.46B). AZN leads profitability with a 17.0% profit margin vs -10.6%. AZN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.28. AZN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C+).
AZN
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
GILD
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+18.4%
Fair Value
$196.10
Current Price
$160.17
$35.93 discount
Margin of Safety
+35.7%
Fair Value
$223.50
Current Price
$143.72
$79.78 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 21 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 23.5%
Generating 2.1B in free cash flow
Strong operational efficiency at 33.7%
Earnings expanding 54.8% YoY
Large-cap with strong market position
Generating 3.5B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
2.5% earnings growth
Distress zone — elevated risk
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 15.1x book value
Grey zone — moderate risk
ROE of -27.4% — below average capital efficiency
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AZN
The strongest argument for AZN centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 17.0% and operating margin at 23.5%. PEG of 1.28 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : GILD
The strongest argument for GILD centers on Operating Margin, EPS Growth, Market Cap. Revenue growth of 10.2% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are EPS Growth, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : GILD
The primary concerns for GILD are PEG Ratio, Price/Book, Altman Z-Score. Debt-to-equity of 2.22 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AZN profiles as a mature stock while GILD is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.
GILD carries more volatility with a beta of 0.35 — expect wider price swings.
GILD is growing revenue faster at 10.2% — sustainability is the question.
GILD generates stronger free cash flow (3.5B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AZN scores higher overall (60/100 vs 54/100), backed by strong 17.0% margins. GILD offers better value entry with a 35.7% 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.
AstraZeneca PLC
HEALTHCARE · DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL · USA
AstraZeneca PLC discovers, develops, manufactures and markets prescription drugs in the areas of oncology, cardiovascular, renal and metabolism, respiratory, infections, neuroscience and gastroenterology worldwide. The company is headquartered in Cambridge, the United Kingdom.
Gilead Sciences Inc
HEALTHCARE · DRUG MANUFACTURERS - GENERAL · USA
Gilead Sciences, Inc. is an American biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Foster City, California, that focuses on researching and developing antiviral drugs used in the treatment of HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and influenza, including Harvoni and Sovaldi.
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