Knife River Corporation (KNF)vsMartin Marietta Materials Inc (MLM)
KNF
Knife River Corporation
$87.90
+2.48%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $4.86B
MLM
Martin Marietta Materials Inc
$589.42
+2.30%
BASIC MATERIALS · Cap: $34.75B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Martin Marietta Materials Inc generates 95% more annual revenue ($6.15B vs $3.15B). MLM leads profitability with a 18.5% profit margin vs 5.0%. KNF appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.65. KNF earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 61/100 (C+).
KNF
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
MLM
Buy53
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+37.6%
Fair Value
$129.17
Current Price
$87.90
$41.27 discount
Margin of Safety
-495.1%
Fair Value
$111.18
Current Price
$589.42
$478.24 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Earnings expanding 36.1% YoY
Strong operational efficiency at 23.1%
Areas to Watch
Expensive relative to growth rate
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
5.0% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 4.1%
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : KNF
The strongest argument for KNF centers on EPS Growth. Revenue growth of 14.9% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : MLM
The strongest argument for MLM centers on Operating Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 18.5% and operating margin at 23.1%.
Bear Case : KNF
The primary concerns for KNF are PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio, Profit Margin. Thin 5.0% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : MLM
The primary concerns for MLM are P/E Ratio, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
KNF profiles as a value stock while MLM is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
MLM carries more volatility with a beta of 1.15 — expect wider price swings.
KNF is growing revenue faster at 14.9% — sustainability is the question.
MLM generates stronger free cash flow (424M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
KNF scores higher overall (61/100 vs 53/100) and 14.9% 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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