Murphy USA has emerged as the more compelling near-term buy among convenience store stocks, according to Zacks Investment Research, driven by stronger earnings momentum and a lower valuation. Murphy USA's first-quarter 2026 net income more than doubled to $136.3 million, or $7.28 per diluted share, while adjusted EBITDA rose to $277.9 million, fueled by a fuel contribution of 35 cents per gallon. In contrast, Casey's General Stores posted a 49.3% increase in fiscal third-quarter 2026 net income to $130.1 million, with inside gross profit up 8.9% to $624 million and prepared food margins at 58.3%. Murphy USA trades at a forward P/E of 18.9X versus Casey's 41.8X, and analysts have raised Murphy USA's fiscal 2026 consensus estimates by 26.65% over the past 60 days, compared with more modest revisions for Casey's. Both stocks carry a Zacks Rank #1, but Murphy USA's combination of value, estimate revisions, and near-term earnings growth makes it the preferred pick.
Murphy USA IncMurphy USA has stronger earnings momentum, lower valuation, and more positive estimate revisions, making it the preferred near-term buy.
Caseys General Stores IncCasey's is compared unfavorably on valuation (higher P/E) and earnings estimate revisions, making it less attractive than Murphy USA.