Knife River Corporation (KNF)vsMartin Marietta Materials Inc (MLM)
KNF
Knife River Corporation
$54.25
-1.06%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $2.87B
MLM
Martin Marietta Materials Inc
$510.00
+1.25%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $36.22B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Martin Marietta Materials Inc generates 102% more annual revenue ($6.69B vs $3.31B). MLM leads profitability with a 36.7% profit margin vs 4.2%. KNF appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.62. MLM earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 59/100 (C).
KNF
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
MLM
Buy59
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-88.1%
Fair Value
$42.85
Current Price
$54.25
$11.40 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for MLM.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
Keeps 37 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Every $100 of equity generates 21 in profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 20.2%
Revenue surging 21.0% year-over-year
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
4.2% margin — thin
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Grey zone — moderate risk
Earnings declined 23.2%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : KNF
The strongest argument for KNF centers on Price/Book. Revenue growth of 12.6% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : MLM
The strongest argument for MLM centers on Profit Margin, Return on Equity, Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 36.7% and operating margin at 20.2%. Revenue growth of 21.0% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : KNF
The primary concerns for KNF are PEG Ratio, Profit Margin, Debt/Equity. Thin 4.2% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : MLM
The primary concerns for MLM are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
KNF profiles as a value stock while MLM is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
MLM carries more volatility with a beta of 1.08 — expect wider price swings.
MLM is growing revenue faster at 21.0% — sustainability is the question.
MLM generates stronger free cash flow (-16M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
MLM scores higher overall (59/100 vs 54/100), backed by strong 36.7% margins and 21.0% revenue growth. 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.
Knife River Corporation
BASIC MATERIALS · BUILDING MATERIALS · USA
Knife River Corporation provides aggregates-based construction materials and contracting services in the United States. The company is headquartered in Bismarck, North Dakota.
Martin Marietta Materials Inc
BASIC MATERIALS · BUILDING MATERIALS · USA
Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. is an American-based company. The company is a supplier of aggregates and heavy building materials, with operations spanning 26 states, Canada and the Caribbean. In particular, Martin Marietta supplies the resources for roads, sidewalks and foundations.
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