Kohl's Corporation (KSS)vsMacy’s Inc (M)
KSS
Kohl's Corporation
$17.23
+2.62%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $1.99B
M
Macy’s Inc
$22.08
+7.71%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $5.91B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Macy’s Inc generates 47% more annual revenue ($22.72B vs $15.43B). M leads profitability with a 2.9% profit margin vs 1.8%. KSS appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.37. M earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 57/100 (C).
KSS
Buy50
out of 100
Grade: C-
M
Buy57
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+44.9%
Fair Value
$34.09
Current Price
$17.23
$16.86 discount
Margin of Safety
+30.4%
Fair Value
$32.28
Current Price
$22.08
$10.20 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Earnings expanding 76.9% YoY
Areas to Watch
Grey zone — moderate risk
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
ROE of 7.0% — below average capital efficiency
1.8% margin — thin
2.1% revenue growth
2.9% margin — thin
Operating margin of 1.8%
Elevated debt levels
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : KSS
The strongest argument for KSS centers on P/E Ratio, Price/Book. PEG of 1.37 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : M
The strongest argument for M centers on P/E Ratio, Price/Book, EPS Growth.
Bear Case : KSS
The primary concerns for KSS are Altman Z-Score, Market Cap, Return on Equity. Debt-to-equity of 1.54 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 1.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : M
The primary concerns for M are Revenue Growth, Profit Margin, Operating Margin. Thin 2.9% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
M carries more volatility with a beta of 1.43 — expect wider price swings.
M is growing revenue faster at 2.1% — sustainability is the question.
KSS generates stronger free cash flow (490M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor DEPARTMENT STORES industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
M scores higher overall (57/100 vs 50/100). KSS offers better value entry with a 44.9% 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.
Kohl's Corporation
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · DEPARTMENT STORES · USA
Kohl's Corporation is a retail company in the United States. The company is headquartered in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin.
Macy’s Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · DEPARTMENT STORES · USA
Macy's, Inc., an omnichannel retail organization, operates stores, websites, and mobile apps under the Macy's, Bloomingdale's and bluemercury brands. The company is headquartered in New York, New York.
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