10 Undervalued Wide Moat Stocks to Buy Now

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the potential of undervalued wide moat stocks as U.S. markets transition into 2026, highlighting a shift in macroeconomic conditions that may favor small-cap stocks due to expected earnings growth and easing interest rates [1][2]. Market Outlook - Analysts predict two 25-basis-point rate cuts by the Federal Reserve in 2026, which could benefit small-cap companies with high debt levels [3]. - The Russell 2000 index is expected to rise to 2,825 by the end of 2026, indicating a projected gain of approximately 14% from 2025 levels [3]. Sector Analysis - Healthcare and financial sectors are identified as key beneficiaries of favorable policies, M&A activity, and AI-related efficiency improvements [5]. - The banking segment is projected to outperform in 2026, prompting investors to seek stocks with strong fundamentals and competitive positioning [5]. Investment Methodology - The analysis utilizes the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF to identify undervalued stocks, filtering for those trading at least 25% below the S&P 500's forward P/E of 22.34 as of January 16, 2026 [7]. - Hedge fund sentiment is considered, with a focus on stocks held by a significant number of hedge funds, as this strategy has historically outperformed the market [8]. Company Highlights - Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:ZBH): - Forward P/E of 10.27x with 35 hedge fund holders; cautious expectations for 2026 were communicated at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference [10][11]. - Management revised 2025 organic revenue growth forecast down to 4.00% from 4.50% due to weaker demand in certain regions, but overall revenue growth estimates remained stable [12]. - Huntington Bancshares Incorporated (NASDAQ:HBAN): - Forward P/E of 10.60x with 42 hedge fund holders; RBC Capital raised its price target from $20.00 to $21.00, citing stable fundamentals and a positive outlook [15][16]. - The company is set to merge with Cadence Bank, expected to enhance capabilities and shareholder value [17]. - Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS): - Forward P/E of 16.67x with 44 hedge fund holders; Wells Fargo raised its price target from $75.00 to $78.00, while RBC Capital lowered its target from $69.00 to $67.00, reflecting mixed outlooks in the building products sector [19][20][21].