Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (VRTX)vsWest Pharmaceutical Services Inc (WST)
VRTX
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc
$454.97
+1.42%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $113.95B
WST
West Pharmaceutical Services Inc
$247.02
+0.71%
HEALTHCARE · Cap: $17.68B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc generates 290% more annual revenue ($12.00B vs $3.07B). VRTX leads profitability with a 32.9% profit margin vs 16.1%. VRTX appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.19. VRTX earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 66/100 (B-).
VRTX
Strong Buy66
out of 100
Grade: B-
WST
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+36.5%
Fair Value
$716.04
Current Price
$454.97
$261.07 discount
Margin of Safety
-256.8%
Fair Value
$68.99
Current Price
$247.02
$178.03 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Keeps 33 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 39.6%
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 23 in profit
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Strong operational efficiency at 21.6%
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Moderate valuation
Weak financial health signals
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
2.1% earnings growth
Expensive relative to growth rate
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : VRTX
The strongest argument for VRTX centers on Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Altman Z-Score. Profitability is solid with margins at 32.9% and operating margin at 39.6%.
Bull Case : WST
The strongest argument for WST centers on Altman Z-Score, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 16.1% and operating margin at 21.6%.
Bear Case : VRTX
The primary concerns for VRTX are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Piotroski F-Score.
Bear Case : WST
The primary concerns for WST are P/E Ratio, EPS Growth, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
WST carries more volatility with a beta of 1.18 — expect wider price swings.
VRTX is growing revenue faster at 9.5% — sustainability is the question.
VRTX generates stronger free cash flow (349M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor BIOTECHNOLOGY industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
VRTX scores higher overall (66/100 vs 55/100), backed by strong 32.9% margins. 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.
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc
HEALTHCARE · BIOTECHNOLOGY · USA
Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is an American biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts.
West Pharmaceutical Services Inc
HEALTHCARE · MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS & SUPPLIES · USA
West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. is a designer and manufacturer of injectable pharmaceutical packaging and delivery systems. The company is headquartered in Exton, Pennsylvania.
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