Murphy USA Inc (MUSA)vsUlta Beauty Inc (ULTA)
MUSA
Murphy USA Inc
$477.36
+1.98%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $8.68B
ULTA
Ulta Beauty Inc
$526.14
+2.12%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $23.10B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Murphy USA Inc generates 37% more annual revenue ($17.02B vs $12.39B). ULTA leads profitability with a 9.3% profit margin vs 2.8%. MUSA appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.51. ULTA earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 55/100 (C-).
MUSA
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
ULTA
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+20.0%
Fair Value
$476.41
Current Price
$477.36
$0.95 discount
Margin of Safety
-291.5%
Fair Value
$174.49
Current Price
$526.14
$351.65 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 64 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Every $100 of equity generates 44 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 14.2x book value
0.2% revenue growth
2.8% margin — thin
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 8.3x book value
Earnings declined 5.4%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : MUSA
The strongest argument for MUSA centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score.
Bull Case : ULTA
The strongest argument for ULTA centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score. Revenue growth of 11.8% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : MUSA
The primary concerns for MUSA are PEG Ratio, Price/Book, Revenue Growth. Debt-to-equity of 5.22 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 2.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : ULTA
The primary concerns for ULTA are PEG Ratio, Price/Book, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
ULTA carries more volatility with a beta of 0.85 — expect wider price swings.
ULTA is growing revenue faster at 11.8% — sustainability is the question.
ULTA generates stronger free cash flow (907M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor SPECIALTY RETAIL industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
ULTA scores higher overall (55/100 vs 54/100) and 11.8% revenue growth. MUSA offers better value entry with a 20.0% 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.
Murphy USA Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · SPECIALTY RETAIL · USA
Murphy USA Inc. is engaged in the marketing of retail motor fuel products and convenience merchandise. The company is headquartered in El Dorado, Arkansas.
Visit Website →Ulta Beauty Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · SPECIALTY RETAIL · USA
Ulta Beauty, Inc., formerly known as Ulta Salon, Cosmetics & Fragrance Inc., is an American chain of beauty stores headquartered in Bolingbrook, Illinois. Ulta Beauty carries cosmetics and skincare brands, men's and women's fragrances, nail products, bath and body products, beauty tools and haircare products.
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