WallStSmart

KKR & Co. Inc. (KKR)vsStepstone Group Inc (STEP)

VS

Smart Verdict

WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison

KKR & Co. Inc. generates 1186% more annual revenue ($25.83B vs $2.01B). KKR leads profitability with a 12.2% profit margin vs -30.5%. KKR earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 66/100 (B-).

KKR

Strong Buy

66

out of 100

Grade: B-

Growth: 8.7Profit: 6.0Value: 6.3Quality: 5.8
Piotroski: 3/9

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

KKR5 strengths · Avg: 8.6/10
PEG RatioValuation
0.4610/10

Growing faster than its price suggests

Market CapQuality
$93.16B9/10

Large-cap with strong market position

Operating MarginProfitability
20.6%8/10

Strong operational efficiency at 20.6%

EPS GrowthGrowth
40.0%8/10

Earnings expanding 40.0% YoY

Free Cash FlowQuality
$3.20B8/10

Generating 3.2B in free cash flow

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

Conservative balance sheet, low leverage

Areas to Watch

KKR3 concerns · Avg: 3.3/10
P/E RatioValuation
33.2x4/10

Premium valuation, high expectations priced in

Debt/EquityHealth
1.633/10

Elevated debt levels

Piotroski F-ScoreQuality
3/93/10

Weak financial health signals

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 : KKR

The strongest argument for KKR centers on PEG Ratio, Market Cap, Operating Margin. PEG of 0.46 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.

Bull Case : STEP

The strongest argument for STEP centers on Debt/Equity.

Bear Case : KKR

The primary concerns for KKR are P/E Ratio, Debt/Equity, Piotroski F-Score. Debt-to-equity of 1.63 is elevated, increasing financial risk.

Bear Case : STEP

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

Key Dynamics to Monitor

KKR profiles as a value stock while STEP is a turnaround play — different risk/reward profiles.

KKR carries more volatility with a beta of 1.79 — expect wider price swings.

KKR is growing revenue faster at 7.8% — sustainability is the question.

KKR generates stronger free cash flow (3.2B), providing more financial flexibility.

Bottom Line

KKR scores higher overall (66/100 vs 25/100). 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.

KKR & Co. Inc.

FINANCIAL SERVICES · ASSET MANAGEMENT · USA

KKR & Co. Inc. is a leading global investment firm established in 1976, with a strong focus on private equity, credit, and real asset investments. The firm excels at identifying complex market opportunities and utilizes its extensive industry knowledge and global network to create sustainable long-term value across its portfolio. KKR is recognized for its commitment to sustainable investing, seamlessly integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its investment approach, thereby promoting responsible growth alongside financial performance. With a strategic emphasis on innovation and operational excellence, KKR remains a crucial player in the financial sector worldwide.

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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