WallStSmart

BlackRock Inc (BLK)vsStepstone Group Inc (STEP)

VS

Smart Verdict

WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison

BlackRock Inc generates 1259% more annual revenue ($27.30B vs $2.01B). BLK leads profitability with a 24.1% profit margin vs -30.5%. BLK earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 78/100 (B+).

BLK

Strong Buy

78

out of 100

Grade: B+

Growth: 8.7Profit: 7.5Value: 6.3Quality: 5.0
Piotroski: 1/9Altman Z: 1.11

STEP

Avoid

25

out of 100

Grade: F

Growth: 3.7Profit: 2.0Value: 5.0Quality: 7.0
Piotroski: 4/9Altman Z: -0.05

Key Strengths & Concerns

Side-by-side fundamental analysis

Key Strengths

BLK6 strengths · Avg: 9.2/10
Operating MarginProfitability
35.1%10/10

Strong operational efficiency at 35.1%

Revenue GrowthGrowth
30.6%10/10

Revenue surging 30.6% year-over-year

Market CapQuality
$175.42B9/10

Large-cap with strong market position

Profit MarginProfitability
24.1%9/10

Keeps 24 of every $100 in revenue as profit

Debt/EquityHealth
0.269/10

Conservative balance sheet, low leverage

PEG RatioValuation
0.898/10

Growing faster than its price suggests

STEP1 strengths · Avg: 10.0/10
Debt/EquityHealth
-2.9110/10

Conservative balance sheet, low leverage

Areas to Watch

BLK3 concerns · Avg: 3.0/10
P/E RatioValuation
25.4x4/10

Moderate valuation

Piotroski F-ScoreQuality
1/93/10

Weak financial health signals

Altman Z-ScoreHealth
1.112/10

Distress zone — elevated risk

STEP4 concerns · Avg: 2.5/10
Revenue GrowthGrowth
4.0%4/10

4.0% revenue growth

Return on EquityProfitability
-55.9%2/10

ROE of -55.9% — below average capital efficiency

EPS GrowthGrowth
-38.5%2/10

Earnings declined 38.5%

Free Cash FlowQuality
$-458.06M2/10

Negative free cash flow — burning cash

Comparative Analysis Report

WallStSmart Research

Bull Case : BLK

The strongest argument for BLK centers on Operating Margin, Revenue Growth, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 24.1% and operating margin at 35.1%. Revenue growth of 30.6% demonstrates continued momentum.

Bull Case : STEP

The strongest argument for STEP centers on Debt/Equity.

Bear Case : BLK

The primary concerns for BLK are P/E Ratio, Piotroski F-Score, Altman Z-Score.

Bear Case : STEP

The primary concerns for STEP are Revenue Growth, Return on Equity, EPS Growth.

Key Dynamics to Monitor

BLK profiles as a growth stock while STEP is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.

BLK carries more volatility with a beta of 1.43 — expect wider price swings.

BLK is growing revenue faster at 30.6% — sustainability is the question.

BLK generates stronger free cash flow (32M), providing more financial flexibility.

Bottom Line

BLK scores higher overall (78/100 vs 25/100), backed by strong 24.1% margins and 30.6% revenue growth. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Avoid" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.

This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.

BlackRock Inc

FINANCIAL SERVICES · ASSET MANAGEMENT · USA

BlackRock, Inc. is an American multinational investment management corporation based in New York City.

Stepstone Group Inc

FINANCIAL SERVICES · ASSET MANAGEMENT · USA

Stepstone Group Inc. (STEP) is a leading global investment firm that specializes in private markets, delivering tailored investment solutions to institutional investors. The firm employs a strategic focus across various asset classes, including private equity, real estate, infrastructure, and private debt, leveraging its extensive network and deep sector expertise to uncover high-quality opportunities. With a commitment to disciplined asset allocation and rigorous due diligence, Stepstone combines the skills of a seasoned team with advanced technology, positioning itself to navigate the complexities of private markets and strive for sustainable, long-term value creation for clients.

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