Core Insights - The price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is a popular metric for assessing stock value but has notable shortcomings [1] - The EV-to-EBITDA ratio is often considered a more accurate valuation metric, providing a clearer view of a company's value and earnings potential [2][3] Valuation Metrics - EV-to-EBITDA is calculated by dividing a company's enterprise value (EV) by its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA), offering a better understanding of profitability by excluding non-cash expenses [3] - A lower EV-to-EBITDA ratio indicates a potentially undervalued stock and is particularly useful for valuing acquisition targets due to its consideration of debt [4] - Unlike P/E, EV-to-EBITDA can be applied to loss-making firms that are EBITDA-positive, making it a versatile tool for assessing companies with varying debt levels [5] Limitations of Valuation Metrics - EV-to-EBITDA varies across industries, making it less appropriate for comparing stocks in different sectors due to diverse capital requirements [6] - A strategy based solely on EV-to-EBITDA may not yield optimal results; it is recommended to combine it with other ratios like P/B, P/E, and P/S for a comprehensive analysis [7] Screening Criteria for Value Stocks - Parameters for screening value stocks include a lower EV-to-EBITDA ratio compared to the industry median, a P/E ratio below the industry median, and a P/B ratio less than the industry average [8][9] - Additional criteria include a minimum average 20-day trading volume of 50,000 shares, a current price of at least $5, and a Zacks Rank of 1 or 2, indicating strong buy potential [10][11] Selected Stocks - DNOW Inc. is highlighted as a leading energy and industrial solutions provider with a Zacks Rank of 1 and a Value Score of A, expected to have a 20.5% earnings growth rate for 2026 [11][12] - FirstSun Capital Bancorp, a financial holding company, also holds a Zacks Rank of 1 with a Value Score of A and an expected earnings growth rate of 13.8% for 2026 [12][13] - Safehold Inc., a real estate investment trust, has a Zacks Rank of 1 and a Value Score of B, with an expected earnings growth rate of 7.1% for 2026 [13][14] - Amkor Technology, a semiconductor packaging provider, has a Zacks Rank of 1 and a Value Score of B, with an expected earnings growth rate of 27.2% for 2026 [14] - CEMEX, a global construction materials company, has a Zacks Rank of 2 and a Value Score of B, with an expected earnings growth rate of 218.5% for 2026 [15]