Dollar Tree Inc (DLTR)vsCarMax Inc (KMX)
DLTR
Dollar Tree Inc
$94.24
-2.60%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $18.79B
KMX
CarMax Inc
$40.34
+1.08%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $5.66B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
CarMax Inc generates 43% more annual revenue ($27.76B vs $19.41B). DLTR leads profitability with a 6.6% profit margin vs 0.9%. KMX appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.38. DLTR earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 68/100 (B-).
DLTR
Strong Buy68
out of 100
Grade: B-
KMX
Buy52
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+26.9%
Fair Value
$171.00
Current Price
$94.24
$76.76 discount
Margin of Safety
+83.0%
Fair Value
$270.07
Current Price
$40.34
$229.73 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 32 in profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
Grey zone — moderate risk
6.6% margin — thin
Elevated debt levels
Distress zone — elevated risk
ROE of 4.1% — below average capital efficiency
0.9% margin — thin
Operating margin of 1.8%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : DLTR
The strongest argument for DLTR centers on Return on Equity, P/E Ratio. PEG of 1.15 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : KMX
The strongest argument for KMX centers on PEG Ratio, Price/Book. PEG of 0.38 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : DLTR
The primary concerns for DLTR are Altman Z-Score, Profit Margin, Debt/Equity. Debt-to-equity of 1.51 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : KMX
The primary concerns for KMX are Altman Z-Score, Return on Equity, Profit Margin. Debt-to-equity of 2.75 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 0.9% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
KMX carries more volatility with a beta of 1.18 — expect wider price swings.
DLTR is growing revenue faster at 9.0% — sustainability is the question.
DLTR generates stronger free cash flow (970M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor DISCOUNT STORES industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
DLTR scores higher overall (68/100 vs 52/100). KMX offers better value entry with a 83.0% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Buy" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Dollar Tree Inc
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · DISCOUNT STORES · USA
Dollar Tree is an American chain of discount variety stores that sells items for $1 or less, headquartered in Chesapeake, Virginia.
Visit Website →CarMax Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS · USA
CarMax is a used vehicle retailer based in the United States. It operates two business segments: CarMax Sales Operations and CarMax Auto Finance.
Visit Website →Compare with Other DISCOUNT STORES Stocks
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