Marathon Petroleum Corp (MPC)vsValero Energy Corporation (VLO)
MPC
Marathon Petroleum Corp
$232.53
-1.38%
ENERGY · Cap: $68.82B
VLO
Valero Energy Corporation
$240.03
-0.84%
ENERGY · Cap: $70.94B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Marathon Petroleum Corp generates 15% more annual revenue ($133.17B vs $115.94B). MPC leads profitability with a 3.0% profit margin vs 2.0%. MPC appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.27. MPC earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 63/100 (C+).
MPC
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
VLO
Buy53
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+66.3%
Fair Value
$618.23
Current Price
$232.53
$385.70 discount
Margin of Safety
+42.4%
Fair Value
$353.81
Current Price
$240.03
$113.78 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Earnings expanding 350.7% YoY
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 24 in profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Generating 1.9B in free cash flow
Earnings expanding 317.9% YoY
Large-cap with strong market position
Generating 1.8B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
3.0% margin — thin
Elevated debt levels
Revenue declined 120.0%
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
2.0% margin — thin
Expensive relative to growth rate
Revenue declined 2.1%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : MPC
The strongest argument for MPC centers on EPS Growth, Market Cap, Return on Equity. PEG of 1.27 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : VLO
The strongest argument for VLO centers on EPS Growth, Market Cap, Free Cash Flow.
Bear Case : MPC
The primary concerns for MPC are Profit Margin, Debt/Equity, Revenue Growth. Thin 3.0% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : VLO
The primary concerns for VLO are P/E Ratio, Profit Margin, PEG Ratio. Thin 2.0% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
VLO carries more volatility with a beta of 0.73 — expect wider price swings.
VLO is growing revenue faster at -2.1% — sustainability is the question.
MPC generates stronger free cash flow (1.9B), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor OIL & GAS REFINING & MARKETING industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
MPC scores higher overall (63/100 vs 53/100). VLO offers better value entry with a 42.4% 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.
Marathon Petroleum Corp
ENERGY · OIL & GAS REFINING & MARKETING · USA
Marathon Petroleum Corporation is an American petroleum refining, marketing, and transportation company headquartered in Findlay, Ohio.
Visit Website →Valero Energy Corporation
ENERGY · OIL & GAS REFINING & MARKETING · USA
Valero Energy Corporation is a Fortune 500 international manufacturer and marketer of transportation fuels, other petrochemical products, and power. It is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, United States.
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