AstraZeneca PLC (AZN)vsMerit Medical Systems Inc (MMSI)
AZN
AstraZeneca PLC
$155.62
-1.49%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $263.09B
MMSI
Merit Medical Systems Inc
$85.82
+0.34%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $5.08B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
AstraZeneca PLC generates 3787% more annual revenue ($61.37B vs $1.58B). AZN leads profitability with a 17.0% profit margin vs 9.2%. AZN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.47. AZN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C+).
AZN
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
MMSI
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+13.9%
Fair Value
$196.93
Current Price
$155.62
$41.31 discount
Margin of Safety
-46.0%
Fair Value
$55.69
Current Price
$85.82
$30.13 premium
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
Earnings expanding 20.4% YoY
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
2.5% earnings growth
Distress zone — elevated risk
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
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 1.47 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : MMSI
The strongest argument for MMSI centers on EPS Growth.
Bear Case : AZN
The primary concerns for AZN are P/E Ratio, EPS Growth, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : MMSI
The primary concerns for MMSI are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
AZN profiles as a mature stock while MMSI is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
MMSI carries more volatility with a beta of 0.51 — expect wider price swings.
MMSI is growing revenue faster at 9.5% — sustainability is the question.
AZN generates stronger free cash flow (2.1B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
AZN scores higher overall (60/100 vs 54/100), backed by strong 17.0% margins. 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.
Merit Medical Systems Inc
HEALTHCARE · MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS & SUPPLIES · USA
Merit Medical Systems, Inc. manufactures and markets disposable medical devices for interventional, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures in cardiology, radiology, oncology, intensive care, and endoscopy. The company is headquartered in South Jordan, Utah.
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