CarMax Inc (KMX)vsCharles Schwab Corp (SCHW)
KMX
CarMax Inc
$40.34
+1.08%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $5.66B
SCHW
Charles Schwab Corp
$88.61
-0.64%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $156.82B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
CarMax Inc generates 12% more annual revenue ($27.76B vs $24.80B). SCHW leads profitability with a 38.0% profit margin vs 0.9%. KMX appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.38. SCHW earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 75/100 (B+).
KMX
Buy52
out of 100
Grade: C-
SCHW
Strong Buy75
out of 100
Grade: B+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+83.0%
Fair Value
$270.07
Current Price
$40.34
$229.73 discount
Intrinsic value data unavailable for SCHW.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Keeps 38 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 49.2%
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Large-cap with strong market position
Attractively priced relative to earnings
15.8% revenue growth
Areas to Watch
Distress zone — elevated risk
ROE of 4.1% — below average capital efficiency
0.9% margin — thin
Operating margin of 1.8%
No major concerns identified
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull 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.
Bull Case : SCHW
The strongest argument for SCHW centers on Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Debt/Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 38.0% and operating margin at 49.2%. Revenue growth of 15.8% demonstrates continued momentum.
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.
Bear Case : SCHW
No major red flags identified for SCHW, but monitor valuation.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
KMX profiles as a value stock while SCHW is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
KMX carries more volatility with a beta of 1.18 — expect wider price swings.
SCHW is growing revenue faster at 15.8% — sustainability is the question.
SCHW generates stronger free cash flow (7.2B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
SCHW scores higher overall (75/100 vs 52/100), backed by strong 38.0% margins and 15.8% revenue growth. 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.
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 →Charles Schwab Corp
FINANCIAL SERVICES · CAPITAL MARKETS · USA
The Charles Schwab Corporation is an American multinational financial services company. It offers banking, commercial banking, an electronic trading platform, and wealth management advisory services to both retail and institutional clients.
Visit Website →Compare with Other AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS Stocks
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