Kirby Corporation (KEX)vsStar Bulk Carriers Corp (SBLK)
KEX
Kirby Corporation
$141.86
+2.01%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $7.38B
SBLK
Star Bulk Carriers Corp
$30.87
+1.28%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $3.40B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Kirby Corporation generates 190% more annual revenue ($3.49B vs $1.20B). SBLK leads profitability with a 23.9% profit margin vs 10.2%. SBLK appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.95. SBLK earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 78/100 (B+).
KEX
Buy53
out of 100
Grade: C-
SBLK
Strong Buy78
out of 100
Grade: B+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-7.2%
Fair Value
$114.05
Current Price
$141.86
$27.81 premium
Margin of Safety
+84.5%
Fair Value
$154.54
Current Price
$30.87
$123.67 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 39.7%
Revenue surging 44.5% year-over-year
Earnings expanding 388194.0% YoY
Keeps 24 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Areas to Watch
0.0% earnings growth
Expensive relative to growth rate
Expensive relative to growth rate
ROE of 5.8% — below average capital efficiency
Weak financial health signals
Distress zone — elevated risk
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : KEX
The strongest argument for KEX centers on Price/Book.
Bull Case : SBLK
The strongest argument for SBLK centers on P/E Ratio, Price/Book, Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 23.9% and operating margin at 39.7%. Revenue growth of 44.5% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : KEX
The primary concerns for KEX are EPS Growth, PEG Ratio.
Bear Case : SBLK
The primary concerns for SBLK are PEG Ratio, Return on Equity, Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
KEX profiles as a value stock while SBLK is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
KEX carries more volatility with a beta of 0.86 — expect wider price swings.
SBLK is growing revenue faster at 44.5% — sustainability is the question.
SBLK generates stronger free cash flow (70M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
SBLK scores higher overall (78/100 vs 53/100), backed by strong 23.9% margins and 44.5% revenue growth. 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.
Kirby Corporation
INDUSTRIALS · MARINE SHIPPING · USA
Kirby Corporation operates domestic tank barges in the United States. The company is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
Visit Website →Star Bulk Carriers Corp
INDUSTRIALS · MARINE SHIPPING · USA
Star Bulk Carriers Corp. The company is headquartered in Maroussi, Greece.
Visit Website →Compare with Other MARINE SHIPPING Stocks
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