The Coca-Cola Company (KO)vsMedline Inc. Class A Common Stock (MDLN)
KO
The Coca-Cola Company
$75.25
+0.78%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $321.39B
MDLN
Medline Inc. Class A Common Stock
$42.67
+1.52%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $34.68B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
The Coca-Cola Company generates 69% more annual revenue ($47.94B vs $28.43B). KO leads profitability with a 27.3% profit margin vs 4.1%. KO trades at a lower P/E of 24.6x. KO earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 57/100 (C).
KO
Buy57
out of 100
Grade: C
MDLN
Buy52
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-97.1%
Fair Value
$38.18
Current Price
$75.25
$37.07 premium
Margin of Safety
+32.7%
Fair Value
$66.92
Current Price
$42.67
$24.25 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Every $100 of equity generates 43 in profit
Keeps 27 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 24.7%
Generating 2.9B in free cash flow
No standout strengths identified
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 10.1x book value
2.4% revenue growth
3.6% earnings growth
Moderate valuation
ROE of 6.5% — below average capital efficiency
4.1% margin — thin
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : KO
The strongest argument for KO centers on Market Cap, Return on Equity, Profit Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 27.3% and operating margin at 24.7%.
Bull Case : MDLN
Revenue growth of 14.8% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : KO
The primary concerns for KO are PEG Ratio, Price/Book, Revenue Growth.
Bear Case : MDLN
The primary concerns for MDLN are P/E Ratio, Return on Equity, Profit Margin. Thin 4.1% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
MDLN is growing revenue faster at 14.8% — sustainability is the question.
KO generates stronger free cash flow (2.9B), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor BEVERAGES - NON-ALCOHOLIC industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
KO scores higher overall (57/100 vs 52/100), backed by strong 27.3% margins. MDLN offers better value entry with a 32.7% 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.
The Coca-Cola Company
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · BEVERAGES - NON-ALCOHOLIC · USA
The Coca-Cola Company is an American multinational beverage corporation incorporated under Delaware's General Corporation Law and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The Coca-Cola Company has interests in the manufacturing, retailing, and marketing of nonalcoholic beverage concentrates and syrups.
Visit Website →Medline Inc. Class A Common Stock
HEALTHCARE · MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS & SUPPLIES · USA
Medline Inc. manufactures med-surg products serving the hospital, surgery centers, physician offices, post-acute facilities, and nursing home sites of care in the United States and Internationally. The company is headquartered in Northfield, Illinois.
Visit Website →Compare with Other BEVERAGES - NON-ALCOHOLIC Stocks
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