CarMax Inc (KMX)vsSherwin-Williams Co (SHW)
KMX
CarMax Inc
$40.34
+1.08%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $5.66B
SHW
Sherwin-Williams Co
$316.82
-1.06%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $78.98B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
CarMax Inc generates 16% more annual revenue ($27.76B vs $23.94B). SHW leads profitability with a 10.9% profit margin vs 0.9%. KMX appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.38. SHW earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 56/100 (C).
KMX
Buy52
out of 100
Grade: C-
SHW
Buy56
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+83.0%
Fair Value
$270.07
Current Price
$40.34
$229.73 discount
Margin of Safety
+11.7%
Fair Value
$358.94
Current Price
$316.82
$42.12 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Every $100 of equity generates 61 in profit
Large-cap with strong market position
Areas to Watch
Distress zone — elevated risk
ROE of 4.1% — below average capital efficiency
0.9% margin — thin
Operating margin of 1.8%
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Trading at 17.0x book value
Expensive relative to growth rate
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 : SHW
The strongest argument for SHW centers on Return on Equity, Market Cap.
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 : SHW
The primary concerns for SHW are P/E Ratio, Price/Book, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
KMX carries more volatility with a beta of 1.18 — expect wider price swings.
SHW is growing revenue faster at 6.8% — sustainability is the question.
SHW generates stronger free cash flow (800,000), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
SHW scores higher overall (56/100 vs 52/100). KMX offers better value entry with a 83.0% margin of safety. Both earn "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 →Sherwin-Williams Co
BASIC MATERIALS · SPECIALTY CHEMICALS · USA
Sherwin Williams Company is a Cleveland, Ohio based company in the paint and coating manufacturing industry. The company primarily engages in the manufacture, distribution, and sale of paints, coatings, floorcoverings, and related products to professional, industrial, commercial, and retail customers primarily in North and South America and Europe.
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