Illinois Tool Works Inc (ITW)vsCarMax Inc (KMX)
ITW
Illinois Tool Works Inc
$254.76
-0.30%
INDUSTRIALS · Cap: $73.64B
KMX
CarMax Inc
$40.34
+1.08%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $5.66B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
CarMax Inc generates 71% more annual revenue ($27.76B vs $16.22B). ITW leads profitability with a 19.3% profit margin vs 0.9%. KMX appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.38. ITW earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C).
ITW
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C
KMX
Buy52
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for ITW.
Margin of Safety
+83.0%
Fair Value
$270.07
Current Price
$40.34
$229.73 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 97 in profit
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Strong operational efficiency at 25.4%
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
4.6% revenue growth
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 22.8x book value
Distress zone — elevated risk
ROE of 4.1% — below average capital efficiency
0.9% margin — thin
Operating margin of 1.8%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : ITW
The strongest argument for ITW centers on Return on Equity, Altman Z-Score, Market Cap. Profitability is solid with margins at 19.3% and operating margin at 25.4%.
Bull 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.
Bear Case : ITW
The primary concerns for ITW are Revenue Growth, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio.
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.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
KMX carries more volatility with a beta of 1.18 — expect wider price swings.
ITW is growing revenue faster at 4.6% — sustainability is the question.
ITW generates stronger free cash flow (528M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor SPECIALTY INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
ITW scores higher overall (60/100 vs 52/100), backed by strong 19.3% margins. 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.
Illinois Tool Works Inc
INDUSTRIALS · SPECIALTY INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY · USA
Illinois Tool Works Inc. or ITW is an American company that produces engineered fasteners and components, equipment and consumable systems, and specialty products.
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.
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