Knife River Corporation (KNF)vsMartin Marietta Materials Inc (MLM)
KNF
Knife River Corporation
$74.16
-3.22%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $4.37B
MLM
Martin Marietta Materials Inc
$575.83
-0.87%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $34.67B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Martin Marietta Materials Inc generates 98% more annual revenue ($6.35B vs $3.20B). MLM leads profitability with a 39.9% profit margin vs 4.6%. KNF appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.44. MLM earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 61/100 (C+).
KNF
Buy59
out of 100
Grade: C
MLM
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-88.0%
Fair Value
$42.88
Current Price
$74.16
$31.28 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for MLM.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
16.0% revenue growth
Earnings expanding 36.1% YoY
Keeps 40 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Earnings expanding 1221.0% YoY
Every $100 of equity generates 22 in profit
17.2% revenue growth
Areas to Watch
Moderate valuation
4.6% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Grey zone — moderate risk
Expensive relative to growth rate
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : KNF
The strongest argument for KNF centers on Price/Book, Revenue Growth, EPS Growth. Revenue growth of 16.0% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.44 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : MLM
The strongest argument for MLM centers on Profit Margin, EPS Growth, Return on Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 39.9% and operating margin at 12.7%. Revenue growth of 17.2% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : KNF
The primary concerns for KNF are P/E Ratio, Profit Margin, Piotroski F-Score. Thin 4.6% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : MLM
The primary concerns for MLM are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
MLM carries more volatility with a beta of 1.10 — expect wider price swings.
MLM is growing revenue faster at 17.2% — sustainability is the question.
MLM generates stronger free cash flow (41M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor BUILDING MATERIALS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
MLM scores higher overall (61/100 vs 59/100), backed by strong 39.9% margins and 17.2% 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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