Goldman Sachs Group Inc (GS)vsLazard Ltd (LAZ)
GS
Goldman Sachs Group Inc
$1,038.68
+1.44%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $314.06B
LAZ
Lazard Ltd
$46.36
-4.51%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $4.30B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Goldman Sachs Group Inc generates 1824% more annual revenue ($61.53B vs $3.20B). GS leads profitability with a 29.4% profit margin vs 8.7%. LAZ appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.00. GS earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 73/100 (B).
GS
Strong Buy73
out of 100
Grade: B
LAZ
Strong Buy70
out of 100
Grade: B-
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Strong operational efficiency at 38.6%
Keeps 29 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Earnings expanding 24.2% YoY
Every $100 of equity generates 31 in profit
Earnings expanding 62.5% YoY
Growing faster than its price suggests
Attractively priced relative to earnings
15.4% revenue growth
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Distress zone — elevated risk
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Elevated debt levels
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : GS
The strongest argument for GS centers on Market Cap, Operating Margin, Profit Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 29.4% and operating margin at 38.6%. Revenue growth of 14.5% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : LAZ
The strongest argument for LAZ centers on Return on Equity, EPS Growth, PEG Ratio. Revenue growth of 15.4% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.00 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : GS
The primary concerns for GS are PEG Ratio, Free Cash Flow, Altman Z-Score. Debt-to-equity of 6.10 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Bear Case : LAZ
The primary concerns for LAZ are Piotroski F-Score, Free Cash Flow, Debt/Equity. Debt-to-equity of 2.45 is elevated, increasing financial risk.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
GS profiles as a mature stock while LAZ is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
LAZ carries more volatility with a beta of 1.41 — expect wider price swings.
LAZ is growing revenue faster at 15.4% — sustainability is the question.
LAZ generates stronger free cash flow (-221M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
GS scores higher overall (73/100 vs 70/100), backed by strong 29.4% margins and 14.5% revenue growth. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Strong 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.
Goldman Sachs Group Inc
FINANCIAL SERVICES · CAPITAL MARKETS · USA
The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., is an American multinational investment bank and financial services company headquartered in New York City. It offers services in investment management, securities, asset management, prime brokerage, and securities underwriting. It also provides investment banking to institutional investors.
Lazard Ltd
FINANCIAL SERVICES · CAPITAL MARKETS · USA
Lazard Ltd, is a financial advisory and asset management firm in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Central and South America. The company is headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda.
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