PayPal vs. Upstart: Which Fintech Stock Should You Buy Today?

Core Insights - The fintech landscape in 2025 is dynamic, with PayPal and Upstart leading in digital payments and AI-driven lending respectively [1][2] PayPal Overview - PayPal is expanding its ecosystem through strategic partnerships, new payment features, and increased adoption of Venmo, with Venmo revenues rising over 20% and total payment volumes growing 12% [4][6] - The company is integrating AI-driven commerce tools through collaborations with Google, Salesforce, and Anthropic, and is positioning itself for emerging digital commerce trends with the PYUSD stablecoin and crypto payment options [5][6] - PayPal's BNPL partnership with Blue Owl Capital and holiday promotions offering 5% cashback illustrate its innovative approach to boosting transaction volume [6] Upstart Overview - Upstart's AI-powered lending platform has led to significant revenue growth, with Q2 2025 revenues reaching $257 million, more than double year-over-year, and loan originations at $2.8 billion, the highest in three years [7][8] - The company returned to GAAP profitability with $5.6 million in net income, compared to a $54.5 million loss in the prior year, and contribution profit rose 85% to $141 million [8][9] - Upstart is diversifying beyond personal loans, with auto originations growing sixfold and home segment nearly ninefold, representing over 10% of total loan volume [9][10] Financial Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PayPal's 2025 sales and EPS implies year-over-year increases of 3.92% and 12.47% respectively, with EPS estimates trending upward [12] - Upstart's 2025 sales are expected to rise by 51.36%, although EPS estimates for 2025 and 2026 have been revised downward [13] Valuation Comparison - PayPal shares are trading at a low valuation with a Value Score of A, while Upstart shares are considered overvalued with a Value Score of F [16] - PayPal's forward Price/Sales ratio is 1.91X, below its three-year median of 2.16X, while Upstart's is 3.98X, also below its three-year median of 4.08X [16] Performance Analysis - Over the past six months, Upstart shares have outperformed PayPal, which has underperformed the S&P 500 composite [17] Conclusion - PayPal combines scale, diversified products, and strong user engagement, making it a more reliable choice for investors seeking lower volatility [21][22] - Upstart's rapid growth in AI-driven lending is notable, but its exposure to credit-sensitive borrowers introduces volatility [20][22]