IFS vs. AXP: Which Stock Should Value Investors Buy Now?

Core Viewpoint - The comparison between Intercorp Financial Services Inc. (IFS) and American Express (AXP) indicates that IFS presents a better value opportunity for investors at this time [1]. Group 1: Zacks Rank and Earnings Outlook - IFS has a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), while AXP has a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold), suggesting a more favorable earnings outlook for IFS [3]. - The Zacks Rank system emphasizes companies with positive earnings estimate revisions, indicating that IFS is likely experiencing a more significant improvement in its earnings outlook compared to AXP [3]. Group 2: Valuation Metrics - IFS has a forward P/E ratio of 8.51, significantly lower than AXP's forward P/E of 19.60, indicating that IFS may be undervalued relative to AXP [5]. - The PEG ratio for IFS is 0.35, while AXP's PEG ratio is 1.45, further suggesting that IFS is a more attractive investment based on expected earnings growth [5]. - IFS has a P/B ratio of 1.43 compared to AXP's P/B of 6.69, reinforcing the notion that IFS is undervalued [6]. - These valuation metrics contribute to IFS earning a Value grade of A, while AXP has a Value grade of C, highlighting IFS as the superior value option [6].