11 Best Inexpensive Stocks to Buy Now

Market Overview - Saira Malik, Nuveen CIO, believes that earnings will drive the market forward in 2026, projecting a growth rate of over 10 percent, but warns that premium valuations may lead to volatility [1] - The market is currently experiencing a tug of war between macro and micro factors, with geopolitical tensions, Fed policy, and corporate earnings being the three key issues [1] Sector Insights - Significant growth in aggregate dollars is still concentrated in large tech firms, with tech earnings expected to be double those of the average S&P 500 company this year [2] - Malik favors materials and industrials as secondary plays behind tech, while expressing skepticism towards consumer staples due to their lack of earnings growth unless in a recession [2] - Utilities are identified as a preferred defensive play amidst ongoing policy-related noise [2] Company Analysis: Antero Resources Corporation (NYSE:AR) - Antero Resources is highlighted as one of the best inexpensive stocks to buy, with 70 hedge fund holders [7] - Barclays lowered its price target for Antero Resources to $41 from $46, maintaining an Equal Weight rating, while noting the upstream industry's strategy of returning cash to shareholders remains durable [8] - Bank of America reduced its price target for Antero Resources to $39 from $47, citing risks of market oversupply by 2027 and applying an average 12% reduction to price objectives across the gas-focused E&P sector [10] Company Analysis: General Motors Company (NYSE:GM) - General Motors is also listed as one of the best inexpensive stocks to buy, with 71 hedge fund holders [12] - JPMorgan raised its price target for General Motors to $100 from $85, citing strengthening global production and billion-dollar tailwinds from the elimination of federal penalties related to fuel economy standards [12] - Goldman Sachs increased its price target for General Motors to $98 from $93 based on recent automotive sales data and positive supplier commentary [13] - HSBC raised its price target for General Motors to $75 from $48, indicating a more predictable year for automobile manufacturers in 2026 [14]