Houlihan Lokey Inc (HLI)vsTradeweb Markets Inc (TW)
HLI
Houlihan Lokey Inc
$141.88
+2.06%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $9.70B
TW
Tradeweb Markets Inc
$119.95
-2.74%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $26.94B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Houlihan Lokey Inc generates 29% more annual revenue ($2.65B vs $2.05B). TW leads profitability with a 39.6% profit margin vs 16.9%. TW appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 2.97. TW earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 67/100 (B-).
HLI
Strong Buy66
out of 100
Grade: B-
TW
Strong Buy67
out of 100
Grade: B-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+38.5%
Fair Value
$276.54
Current Price
$141.88
$134.66 discount
Margin of Safety
+34.8%
Fair Value
$176.44
Current Price
$119.95
$56.49 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 21 in profit
Strong operational efficiency at 24.9%
Earnings expanding 22.3% YoY
Keeps 40 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 42.4%
Earnings expanding 128.8% YoY
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Expensive relative to growth rate
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : HLI
The strongest argument for HLI centers on Return on Equity, Operating Margin, EPS Growth. Profitability is solid with margins at 16.9% and operating margin at 24.9%. Revenue growth of 13.0% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : TW
The strongest argument for TW centers on Profit Margin, Operating Margin, EPS Growth. Profitability is solid with margins at 39.6% and operating margin at 42.4%. Revenue growth of 12.5% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : HLI
The primary concerns for HLI are PEG Ratio.
Bear Case : TW
The primary concerns for TW are P/E Ratio, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
HLI carries more volatility with a beta of 0.96 — expect wider price swings.
HLI is growing revenue faster at 13.0% — sustainability is the question.
TW generates stronger free cash flow (337M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor CAPITAL MARKETS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
TW scores higher overall (67/100 vs 66/100), backed by strong 39.6% margins and 12.5% revenue growth. HLI offers better value entry with a 38.5% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Strong 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.
Houlihan Lokey Inc
FINANCIAL SERVICES · CAPITAL MARKETS · USA
Houlihan Lokey, Inc., an investment banking firm, provides valuation and financial advisory services, capital markets, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) globally. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.
Tradeweb Markets Inc
FINANCIAL SERVICES · CAPITAL MARKETS · USA
Tradeweb Markets Inc. creates and operates electronic marketplaces in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and internationally.
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