Small-Cap Savants: 3 Stocks Mastering the Art of Outsized Returns

Core Viewpoint - Small-cap stocks have underperformed compared to larger stocks over the last decade, with the Russell 2000 Index rising only 2.54% this year compared to a 13% gain in the S&P 500 [1] Group 1: Small-Cap Stock Performance - The Russell 2000 Index, which includes 2,000 small-cap stocks, has increased 11% over the last 12 months [1] - Despite underperformance, some small-cap stocks have outperformed the market, achieving returns comparable to larger companies [2] Group 2: Company Highlights - Oil-Dri (ODC): - Market capitalization of $605 million, specializing in pet care products, particularly cat litter [3] - 2023 sales of $413 million and profits of $28 million [4] - Stock has risen nearly 2,500% over the last 20 years, significantly outperforming the S&P 500's 500% return [4] - Quarterly dividend payment of 29 cents per share, yielding 1.40% [4][5] - Stock gained 113% in the last 12 months, with a 20% gain this year [5] - Consol Energy (CEIX): - Market capitalization slightly over $2.50 billion, operates in the coal sector [6] - Share price has decreased 1.3% this year but increased 61% in the past 12 months and nearly 275% over five years [6][7] - Leading producer of high-BTU bituminous coal in the U.S. and operates the largest underground coal mine [7] - Stock trades at six times future earnings estimates, with no dividend [7] - Miller Industries (MLR): - Market capitalization under $700 million, specializes in tow trucks and towing equipment [8][9] - Stock has climbed 66% in the last 12 months, including a 41% gain this year [8] - Stock price has more than doubled over the last five years, trading at 10 times future earnings estimates [8] - Quarterly dividend payment of 19 cents per share, yielding 1.30% [9]