ATLO vs PEBK

Ames National Corporation (ATLO) shows a mixed financial profile with a weak Piotroski F-Score of 4/9 indicating marginal financial health, and no available Altman Z-Score limits distress risk assessment. The stock trades below its growth-based intrinsic value of $52.80 but above the conservative Graham Number of $30.14, suggesting moderate undervaluation with quality concerns. Strong profitability metrics like a 26.46% profit margin and 37.88% operating margin are offset by weak returns on equity and assets (ROE: 8.35%, ROA: 0.76%) and a bearish technical trend. Earnings and revenue growth are robust year-over-year, but historical earnings misses and lack of analyst coverage raise caution.

PEBK presents a complex profile with a stable Piotroski F-Score of 4/9 and a current price ($41.92) trading below its Graham Number ($49.16), suggesting a value-based entry point. While the company shows strong historical price performance and a healthy ROE of 13.79%, these are heavily offset by a catastrophic recent YoY EPS decline of 580% and a poor earnings surprise track record. The divergence between the high intrinsic value estimate and the bearish insider sentiment suggests a potential peak in price despite the low P/E ratio. Overall, the stock is fundamentally undervalued but currently faces severe earnings volatility and negative internal sentiment.