Murphy USA Inc (MUSA)vsUlta Beauty Inc (ULTA)
MUSA
Murphy USA Inc
$523.58
-0.42%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $9.52B
ULTA
Ulta Beauty Inc
$546.78
+2.08%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $23.48B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Murphy USA Inc generates 47% more annual revenue ($19.09B vs $12.96B). ULTA leads profitability with a 9.3% profit margin vs 3.2%. MUSA appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.51. MUSA earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 67/100 (B-).
MUSA
Strong Buy67
out of 100
Grade: B-
ULTA
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for MUSA.
Margin of Safety
-20.8%
Fair Value
$565.46
Current Price
$546.78
$18.68 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 89 in profit
Revenue surging 40.8% year-over-year
Earnings expanding 53.1% YoY
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Every $100 of equity generates 46 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 12.3x book value
3.2% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.9%
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 8.6x book value
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : MUSA
The strongest argument for MUSA centers on Return on Equity, Revenue Growth, EPS Growth. Revenue growth of 40.8% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : ULTA
The strongest argument for ULTA centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score.
Bear Case : MUSA
The primary concerns for MUSA are PEG Ratio, Price/Book, Profit Margin. Debt-to-equity of 3.49 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 3.2% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : ULTA
The primary concerns for ULTA are PEG Ratio, Price/Book, Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
MUSA profiles as a hypergrowth stock while ULTA is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
ULTA carries more volatility with a beta of 0.85 — expect wider price swings.
MUSA is growing revenue faster at 40.8% — sustainability is the question.
MUSA generates stronger free cash flow (123M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
MUSA scores higher overall (67/100 vs 61/100) and 40.8% revenue growth. Both earn "Strong 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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