Centene Corp (CNC)vsPenske Automotive Group Inc (PAG)
CNC
Centene Corp
$55.96
+1.78%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $27.15B
PAG
Penske Automotive Group Inc
$173.81
+1.28%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $11.16B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Centene Corp generates 462% more annual revenue ($178.33B vs $31.72B). PAG leads profitability with a 2.9% profit margin vs -3.6%. CNC appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.02. CNC earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 57/100 (C).
CNC
Buy57
out of 100
Grade: C
PAG
Buy51
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for CNC.
Margin of Safety
-1.7%
Fair Value
$170.26
Current Price
$173.81
$3.55 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
Generating 3.4B in free cash flow
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
ROE of -26.0% — below average capital efficiency
Currently unprofitable
Expensive relative to growth rate
2.9% margin — thin
Operating margin of 3.7%
Elevated debt levels
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : CNC
The strongest argument for CNC centers on Price/Book, Free Cash Flow. PEG of 1.02 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : PAG
The strongest argument for PAG centers on P/E Ratio, Price/Book.
Bear Case : CNC
The primary concerns for CNC are Return on Equity, Profit Margin.
Bear Case : PAG
The primary concerns for PAG are PEG Ratio, Profit Margin, Operating Margin. Debt-to-equity of 1.56 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 2.9% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
CNC profiles as a turnaround stock while PAG is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
CNC carries more volatility with a beta of 1.06 — expect wider price swings.
CNC is growing revenue faster at 5.1% — sustainability is the question.
CNC generates stronger free cash flow (3.4B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
CNC scores higher overall (57/100 vs 51/100). 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.
Centene Corp
HEALTHCARE · HEALTHCARE PLANS · USA
Centene Corporation is a large publicly traded company and a multi-line managed care enterprise that serves as a major intermediary for both government-sponsored and privately insured health care programs. It is a healthcare insurer that focuses on managed care for uninsured, underinsured, and low-income individuals.
Penske Automotive Group Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS · USA
Penske Automotive Group, Inc., a diversified transportation services company, operates commercial and automotive truck dealerships. The company is headquartered in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.
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