Lazard Ltd (LAZ)vsMorgan Stanley (MS)
LAZ
Lazard Ltd
$40.90
+3.68%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $3.88B
MS
Morgan Stanley
$165.65
-0.13%
FINANCIAL SERVICES · Cap: $263.03B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Morgan Stanley generates 2169% more annual revenue ($70.30B vs $3.10B). MS leads profitability with a 24.0% profit margin vs 7.6%. LAZ appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 1.00. MS earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 76/100 (B+).
LAZ
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C
MS
Strong Buy76
out of 100
Grade: B+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-271.2%
Fair Value
$14.76
Current Price
$40.90
$26.14 premium
Margin of Safety
+59.3%
Fair Value
$407.18
Current Price
$165.65
$241.53 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Every $100 of equity generates 29 in profit
Growing faster than its price suggests
Mega-cap, among the largest globally
Strong operational efficiency at 38.6%
Keeps 24 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Earnings expanding 20.7% YoY
Areas to Watch
Grey zone — moderate risk
7.6% margin — thin
Weak financial health signals
Earnings declined 43.3%
Expensive relative to growth rate
Weak financial health signals
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : LAZ
The strongest argument for LAZ centers on Return on Equity, PEG Ratio. PEG of 1.00 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : MS
The strongest argument for MS centers on Market Cap, Operating Margin, Profit Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 24.0% and operating margin at 38.6%. Revenue growth of 11.0% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bear Case : LAZ
The primary concerns for LAZ are Altman Z-Score, Profit Margin, Piotroski F-Score.
Bear Case : MS
The primary concerns for MS are PEG Ratio, Piotroski F-Score, Free Cash Flow.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
LAZ profiles as a value stock while MS is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
LAZ carries more volatility with a beta of 1.37 — expect wider price swings.
MS is growing revenue faster at 11.0% — sustainability is the question.
LAZ generates stronger free cash flow (400M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
MS scores higher overall (76/100 vs 60/100), backed by strong 24.0% margins and 11.0% revenue growth. 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.
Lazard Ltd
FINANCIAL SERVICES · CAPITAL MARKETS · USA
Lazard Ltd, is a financial advisory and asset management firm in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Central and South America. The company is headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda.
Morgan Stanley
FINANCIAL SERVICES · CAPITAL MARKETS · USA
Morgan Stanley is an American multinational investment bank and financial services company headquartered at 1585 Broadway in the Morgan Stanley Building, Midtown Manhattan, New York City.
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