3 Value Stocks Walking a Fine Line

Value investing has produced some of the world’s most famous investing billionaires, including Warren Buffett, David Einhorn, and Seth Klarman, who built their fortunes by purchasing wonderful businesses at reasonable prices. But these hidden gems are few and far between – many stocks that appear cheap often stay that way because they face structural issues.

Separating the winners from the value traps is a tough challenge, and that’s where StockStory comes in. Our job is to find you high-quality companies that will stand the test of time. That said, here are three value stocks with poor fundamentals and some alternatives you should consider instead.

American Eagle (AEO)

Forward P/E Ratio: 9.7x

With a heavy focus on denim, American Eagle Outfitters (NYSE:AEO) is a specialty retailer offering an assortment of apparel and accessories to young adults.

Why Does AEO Worry Us?

1. Sales trends were unexciting over the last three years as its 3.8% annual growth was below the typical consumer retail company

2. Limited expansion of stores suggests it’s prioritizing efficiency over growth at this stage

3. ROIC of 7.8% reflects management’s challenges in identifying attractive investment opportunities, and its shrinking returns suggest its past profit sources are losing steam

American Eagle’s stock price of $17.50 implies a valuation ratio of 9.7x forward P/E. If you’re considering AEO for your portfolio, see our FREE research report to learn more.

Mohawk Industries (MHK)

Forward P/E Ratio: 11.8x

Established in 1878, Mohawk Industries (NYSE:MHK) is a leading producer of floor-covering products for both residential and commercial applications.

Why Are We Out on MHK?

1. Annual sales growth of 2% over the last five years lagged behind its consumer discretionary peers as its large revenue base made it difficult to generate incremental demand

2. Capital intensity will likely increase as its free cash flow margin is anticipated to drop by 2 percentage points over the next year

3. Unchanged returns on capital make it difficult for the company’s valuation multiple to re-rate

At $109.99 per share, Mohawk Industries trades at 11.8x forward P/E. Dive into our free research report to see why there are better opportunities than MHK.

United Parcel Service (UPS)

Forward P/E Ratio: 14.3x

Trademarking its recognizable UPS Brown color, UPS (NYSE:UPS) offers package delivery, supply chain management, and freight forwarding services.

Why Should You Dump UPS?

1. Sales were flat over the last five years, indicating it’s failed to expand this cycle

2. Free cash flow margin shrank by 6.1 percentage points over the last five years, suggesting the company is consuming more capital to stay competitive

3. Eroding returns on capital suggest its historical profit centers are aging