CarMax Inc (KMX)vsMonster Beverage Corp (MNST)
KMX
CarMax Inc
$40.34
+1.08%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $5.66B
MNST
Monster Beverage Corp
$86.29
+13.58%
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · Cap: $84.38B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
CarMax Inc generates 235% more annual revenue ($27.76B vs $8.29B). MNST leads profitability with a 23.0% profit margin vs 0.9%. KMX appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.38. MNST earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 68/100 (B-).
KMX
Buy52
out of 100
Grade: C-
MNST
Strong Buy68
out of 100
Grade: B-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+83.0%
Fair Value
$270.07
Current Price
$40.34
$229.73 discount
Margin of Safety
+70.5%
Fair Value
$273.91
Current Price
$86.29
$187.62 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Strong operational efficiency at 31.3%
Earnings expanding 66.6% YoY
Safe zone — low bankruptcy risk
Large-cap with strong market position
Every $100 of equity generates 27 in profit
Keeps 23 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Areas to Watch
Distress zone — elevated risk
ROE of 4.1% — below average capital efficiency
0.9% margin — thin
Operating margin of 1.8%
Expensive relative to growth rate
Trading at 10.2x book value
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull 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.
Bull Case : MNST
The strongest argument for MNST centers on Operating Margin, EPS Growth, Altman Z-Score. Profitability is solid with margins at 23.0% and operating margin at 31.3%. Revenue growth of 17.6% demonstrates continued momentum.
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.
Bear Case : MNST
The primary concerns for MNST are PEG Ratio, Price/Book, P/E Ratio. A P/E of 41.7x leaves little room for execution misses.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
KMX profiles as a value stock while MNST is a growth play — different risk/reward profiles.
KMX carries more volatility with a beta of 1.18 — expect wider price swings.
MNST is growing revenue faster at 17.6% — sustainability is the question.
MNST generates stronger free cash flow (584M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
MNST scores higher overall (68/100 vs 52/100), backed by strong 23.0% margins and 17.6% revenue growth. KMX offers better value entry with a 83.0% margin of safety. Both earn "Strong 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.
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.
Visit Website →Monster Beverage Corp
CONSUMER DEFENSIVE · BEVERAGES - NON-ALCOHOLIC · USA
Monster Beverage Corporation is an American beverage company that manufactures energy drinks including Monster Energy, Relentless and Burn.
Visit Website →Compare with Other AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS Stocks
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