KAR Auction Services Inc (KAR)vsLive Ventures Inc (LIVE)
KAR
KAR Auction Services Inc
$30.88
+0.36%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $3.28B
LIVE
Live Ventures Inc
$9.06
-5.62%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $28.66M
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
KAR Auction Services Inc generates 333% more annual revenue ($1.90B vs $437.87M). LIVE leads profitability with a 0.9% profit margin vs 0.1%. KAR earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 65/100 (B-).
KAR
Strong Buy65
out of 100
Grade: B-
LIVE
Avoid33
out of 100
Grade: F
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-65.7%
Fair Value
$18.64
Current Price
$30.88
$12.24 premium
Margin of Safety
+86.4%
Fair Value
$143.82
Current Price
$9.06
$134.76 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
0.1% revenue growth
1.1% earnings growth
ROE of 0.1% — below average capital efficiency
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
ROE of 4.2% — below average capital efficiency
0.9% margin — thin
Operating margin of 1.9%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : KAR
The strongest argument for KAR centers on Price/Book. PEG of 1.34 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : LIVE
The strongest argument for LIVE centers on Price/Book.
Bear Case : KAR
The primary concerns for KAR are P/E Ratio, Revenue Growth, EPS Growth. Thin 0.1% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : LIVE
The primary concerns for LIVE are Market Cap, Return on Equity, Profit Margin. Debt-to-equity of 2.50 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 0.9% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
KAR carries more volatility with a beta of 1.25 — expect wider price swings.
KAR is growing revenue faster at 0.1% — sustainability is the question.
KAR generates stronger free cash flow (111M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
KAR scores higher overall (65/100 vs 33/100). LIVE offers better value entry with a 86.4% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong Buy" and "Avoid" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
KAR Auction Services Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS · USA
KAR Auction Services, Inc. provides used vehicle auctions and related vehicle remarketing services for the automotive industry in the United States, Europe, Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. The company is headquartered in Carmel, Indiana.
Live Ventures Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · HOME IMPROVEMENT RETAIL · USA
Live Ventures Incorporated is engaged in flooring manufacturing, steel fabrication and retail businesses in the United States. The company is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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