AZN Stock Analysis — AstraZeneca
Sector: Healthcare
AI Verdict
AZN is cheap for the growth on offer, and the moat from its drug pipeline makes the bullish case more credible than most in healthcare.
Competitive Moat
AstraZeneca's moat comes from its deep pipeline of patented drugs across oncology, respiratory, and cardiovascular diseases, supported by heavy R&D investment and regulatory expertise. Its scale and global distribution give it negotiating power with payers and governments, making it hard for smaller firms to compete.
Summary
AstraZeneca's 59.8% forward EPS growth estimate is drawing attention as the market re-rates its earnings power.
Where It Stands
AZN trades at 17.2x next year's earnings, below the healthcare sector median of 22x, while analysts expect 59.8% EPS growth — a rare combination of high growth and a discount multiple.
Key Metrics
- Trailing P/E: 27.5x
- Forward P/E: 17.2x
- PEG Ratio: 0.46
- Earnings Growth: +0.6%
- Revenue Growth: +0.1%
- Dividend Yield: 0.02%
- 52-Week High: $15730.00
- 52-Week Low: $9932.00
Analyst Consensus
30 Buy · 4 Hold · 2 Sell (36 analysts)
Bull Case
With a forward P/E of 17.2x and nearly 60% earnings growth expected, the stock is cheap for the growth you're getting.
Bear Case
If the forward P/E reverts to the sector median of 22x but growth disappoints, the stock could see a sharp derating despite its current discount.
Catalyst to Watch
Upcoming late-stage drug trial results or regulatory approvals could confirm or undercut the aggressive 59.8% EPS growth forecast.