Core Insights - Value investors often use the price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio to identify value stocks, but for loss-making companies with negative P/E ratios, the price-to-sales (P/S) ratio is utilized to assess their true value [1] - The price-to-book (P/B) ratio, while less commonly used, serves as an effective tool for identifying low-priced stocks with high return potential [1] P/B Ratio Calculation - The P/B ratio is calculated as market capitalization divided by book value of equity, helping to identify low-priced stocks with promising growth prospects [2] - A P/B ratio of less than one indicates that a stock is undervalued, while a ratio greater than one suggests it may be overvalued [5][6] Understanding Book Value - Book value represents the total value remaining for shareholders if a company were to liquidate its assets after settling all liabilities [3] - It is calculated by subtracting total liabilities from total assets, often equating to common stockholders' equity [4] Limitations of P/B Ratio - The P/B ratio is particularly relevant for industries like finance and manufacturing but can be misleading for companies with significant R&D expenses or high debt [8] - A P/B ratio of less than one may indicate weak returns on assets or overstated assets, while a ratio above one could suggest the stock is a takeover target [7] Screening Parameters for Low P/B Stocks - Stocks with a P/B ratio lower than the industry median are considered attractive for potential gains [11] - Additional screening includes P/S and P/E ratios below industry medians, a PEG ratio less than 1, and a minimum stock price of $5 [12][13][14] Recommended Low P/B Stocks - AES Corporation (AES) is a global power company with a projected 3-5 year EPS growth rate of 11.2% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [15] - BorgWarner (BWA) specializes in clean technology for vehicles, with a projected EPS growth rate of 10.2% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [16] - EnerSys (ENS) manufactures industrial batteries, holding a Zacks Rank of 1 and a projected EPS growth rate of 15.0% [17] - PG&E Corporation (PCG) is California's largest utility, with a projected EPS growth rate of 15.9% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [18] - Keros Therapeutics (KROS) is a biotech firm with a projected EPS growth rate of 36.5% and a Zacks Rank of 1 [19]

Market Overview - The U.S. stock market experienced a slight decline on December 26, 2025, primarily due to low trading volume following the Christmas holiday, with many institutional investors absent for the year [1] - Major indexes such as the S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq saw small dips, ending short winning streaks observed earlier in the week [1][9] Investment Strategy - During the holiday season, equity investors may favor dividend-growth stocks over high price-growth stocks, as companies with a consistent history of dividend increases often exhibit strong financial health [2] - Dividend-growth stocks provide a defensive hedge against economic uncertainty and market volatility, making them attractive during periods of low market activity [4] Dividend Growth Stocks - Stocks with a strong history of year-over-year dividend growth are considered healthier investments, offering greater potential for capital appreciation compared to simple dividend-paying stocks [3][6] - Five selected dividend-growth stocks include: - Woodward Inc. (WWD): Expected revenue growth of 11.1% for fiscal 2026, long-term earnings growth rate of 15.20%, and an annual dividend yield of 0.36% [10] - Enersys (ENS): Projected revenue growth of 4% for fiscal 2026, long-term earnings growth rate of 15%, and an annual dividend yield of 0.70% [11] - Donaldson (DCI): Anticipated revenue growth of 3.5% for fiscal 2026, long-term earnings growth rate of 10%, and an annual dividend yield of 1.31% [12] - Rockwell Automation (ROK): Expected revenue growth of 5.8% for fiscal 2026, long-term earnings growth rate of 12.4%, and an annual dividend yield of 1.38% [13] - Vertiv Holdings (VRT): Projected revenue growth of 27.5% for fiscal 2025, long-term earnings growth rate of 30.2%, and an annual dividend yield of 0.15% [14] Stock Selection Criteria - Stocks selected for their strong fundamentals include criteria such as: - 5-Year Historical Dividend Growth Greater Than Zero [6] - 5-Year Historical Sales Growth Greater Than Zero [7] - 5-Year Historical EPS Growth Greater Than Zero [7] - Next 3-5 Year EPS Growth Rate Greater Than Zero [7] - Price/Cash Flow Less Than Industry Median [8] - 52-Week Price Change Greater Than S&P 500 [8]

Core Insights - The global supply chain is anticipated to undergo significant changes by 2026 due to geopolitical tensions, regulatory shifts, and rising cost pressures that have disrupted international trade and increased uncertainty for businesses worldwide [1][2] Group 1: Industry Trends - Manufacturing companies are increasingly focusing on domestic manufacturing, technological advancements, and building resilient supply-chain networks as they prepare for 2026 [2] - This strategic shift is leading to heightened investments in U.S.-based facilities, productivity-enhancing technologies, and regional suppliers [2] Group 2: Key Manufacturing Stocks - Caterpillar Inc. (CAT), EnerSys (ENS), and Honeywell International Inc. (HON) are identified as potential investment opportunities due to their strong positioning for supply-chain diversification into 2026 [3][8] Group 3: Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) - Caterpillar is the largest global construction and mining equipment manufacturer, providing products and services across various sectors [4] - The company is diversifying its supply chain by building a reliable network of suppliers and reducing dependence on a limited number of suppliers [5] - Caterpillar is expanding its U.S. operations, including new facilities in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and investments in Indiana to enhance workforce skills and engine production [6] - The stock has surged 54.6% in the past year, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings revised 3.5% upward over the past 60 days [7] Group 4: EnerSys (ENS) - EnerSys specializes in manufacturing industrial batteries and is realigning its manufacturing footprint by relocating production to the U.S. to reduce tariff exposure [10][11] - The company is engaging minority and veteran-owned suppliers and implementing sustainability initiatives to enhance supply-chain resilience [11] - EnerSys has seen a 56.2% increase in shares over the past year, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal 2026 earnings revised 5.3% upward [12] Group 5: Honeywell International Inc. (HON) - Honeywell is a diversified technology and manufacturing company with a wide range of products and services [14][15] - The company is diversifying its supply chain by reducing reliance on single suppliers and regions, and implementing dual-sourcing strategies [16] - Despite a 13.2% decline in shares over the past year, Honeywell has rebounded 5.3% in the past month, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings revised 1.4% upward [17]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of the price-to-book (P/B) ratio as a valuation tool for identifying undervalued stocks with high growth potential, alongside more commonly used ratios like price-to-earnings (P/E) and price-to-sales (P/S) [1][9]. Understanding P/B Ratio - The P/B ratio is calculated by dividing the market capitalization by the book value of equity, providing insight into whether a stock is under- or overvalued [5][9]. - A P/B ratio of less than one indicates that a stock is trading below its book value, suggesting it may be undervalued and a good buy, while a ratio above one may indicate overvaluation [5][6]. Book Value Definition - Book value represents the total value remaining for shareholders if a company were to liquidate its assets after settling all liabilities, calculated by subtracting total liabilities from total assets [3][4]. Limitations of P/B Ratio - The P/B ratio is particularly useful for industries with tangible assets, such as finance and manufacturing, but may be misleading for companies with high R&D expenses or significant debt [8][10]. Screening Parameters for Value Stocks - The article outlines a screening process that includes criteria such as P/B, P/S, P/E, and PEG ratios to identify value stocks trading above $5 with strong liquidity [11][12][13][14]. Identified Value Stocks - Five stocks identified as low P/B stocks include: - **StoneCo (STNE)**: A financial technology company with a projected 3-5 year EPS growth rate of 30.3% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [15]. - **General Motors (GM)**: A major automaker with a projected EPS growth rate of 8.5% and a Zacks Rank of 1 [16]. - **EnerSys (ENS)**: A manufacturer of industrial batteries with a projected EPS growth rate of 15.0% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [17]. - **Deutsche Bank (DB)**: The largest bank in Germany with a projected EPS growth rate of 26.04% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [19]. - **Keros Therapeutics (KROS)**: A biotech firm with a projected EPS growth rate of 36.5% and a Zacks Rank of 1 [19].

Core Insights - In times of market volatility, investors are increasingly turning to value investing as a strategy to capitalize on discounted stock prices when others are selling [1][3] Value Investment Strategy - Value investing allows investors to purchase stocks at lower prices during market uncertainty, presenting opportunities for long-term gains [1] - The strategy can lead to "value traps" if not properly understood, where stocks underperform due to persistent issues rather than temporary setbacks [3] Importance of PEG Ratio - The PEG ratio, defined as (Price/Earnings)/Earnings Growth Rate, is a crucial metric for value investors, with a lower PEG ratio indicating better value [5] - The PEG ratio helps identify intrinsic stock value, although it has limitations, such as not accounting for changing growth rates over time [5] Screening Criteria for Value Stocks - Effective screening for value stocks includes criteria such as a PEG ratio less than the industry median, a P/E ratio below the industry median, and a Zacks Rank of 1 or 2 [6] - Additional criteria include a market capitalization greater than $1 billion, an average 20-day trading volume exceeding 50,000, and upward revisions in earnings estimates by more than 5% [6] Selected Value Stocks - The Allstate Corporation (ALL), Telefonica, S.A. (TEF), Enersys (ENS), and Commercial Metals Co. (CMC) are highlighted as low-PEG value stocks that meet strict screening criteria [7] - Each of these companies demonstrates a combination of discounted valuation, solid growth metrics, and strong Style Scores, along with rising earnings estimates [7] Company Profiles - **Allstate Corporation (ALL)**: The third-largest property-casualty insurer in the U.S. with a five-year expected growth rate of 18.9% and a Zacks Rank of 1 [9][10] - **Telefonica, S.A. (TEF)**: A major telecommunications provider in Europe and Latin America, with a five-year expected growth rate of 28.1% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [10][11] - **Enersys (ENS)**: Engaged in manufacturing industrial batteries, with a long-term historical growth rate of 16.5% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [11][12] - **Commercial Metals Co. (CMC)**: A manufacturer and recycler of steel products, boasting a five-year expected growth rate of 25.6% and a Zacks Rank of 1 [13][14]

Core Insights - Investors primarily utilize price-to-earnings (P/E) and price-to-sales (P/S) ratios for stock evaluation, while the price-to-book (P/B) ratio serves as an additional metric for identifying undervalued stocks with growth potential [1][5][10] Group 1: P/B Ratio and Its Importance - The P/B ratio is defined as the ratio of stock price to book value, calculated as market capitalization divided by book value of equity [2] - A P/B ratio of less than one indicates that a stock is trading below its book value, suggesting it may be undervalued and a good buy [5] - Conversely, a P/B ratio greater than one suggests the stock may be overvalued [5][6] Group 2: Book Value Definition - Book value represents the total value remaining for shareholders if a company were to liquidate its assets after settling all liabilities [3] - It is calculated by subtracting total liabilities from total assets, equating to common stockholders' equity on the balance sheet [4] Group 3: Limitations of P/B Ratio - The P/B ratio is particularly useful for industries with tangible assets, such as finance and manufacturing, but may be misleading for companies with high R&D expenses or significant debt [8] - A low P/B ratio could indicate weak asset returns or overstated assets, while a high P/B may suggest a company is a takeover target [7] Group 4: Stocks with Low P/B Ratios - StoneCo (STNE) has a low P/B ratio with a projected 3-5 year EPS growth rate of 30.3% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [9][15] - Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD) also features a low P/B ratio with a projected EPS growth rate of 12.0% and a Zacks Rank of 1 [9][16] - Keros Therapeutics (KROS) is highlighted with a projected EPS growth rate of 23.6% and a Zacks Rank of 1 [9][20] Group 5: Screening Parameters for Investment - Screening for stocks involves comparing P/B, P/S, and P/E ratios against industry medians to identify attractive investment opportunities [11][12][13] - A PEG ratio of less than 1 indicates undervaluation relative to future growth prospects [13] - Stocks should have a minimum trading price of $5 and a substantial average trading volume for liquidity [14]

Core Insights - Value investors traditionally use the price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio to identify value stocks, but for loss-making companies, the price-to-sales (P/S) ratio is more relevant. The price-to-book (P/B) ratio is also a useful tool for identifying undervalued stocks with high return potential [1][5][9]. Valuation Ratios - The P/B ratio is calculated as market capitalization divided by book value of equity, helping to identify low-priced stocks with high growth prospects [2][5]. - A P/B ratio of less than one indicates that a stock is trading below its book value, suggesting it may be undervalued, while a ratio above one may indicate overvaluation [5][6]. - The P/B ratio is particularly useful for industries with tangible assets, such as finance and manufacturing, but can be misleading for companies with high R&D expenses or significant debt [8]. Book Value Definition - Book value represents the total value remaining for shareholders if a company were to liquidate its assets after settling all liabilities, calculated by subtracting total liabilities from total assets [3][4]. Screening Parameters - Stocks with a P/B ratio lower than the industry median are considered to have potential for price appreciation [11]. - Additional screening criteria include a P/S ratio below the industry median, a P/E ratio below the industry median, a PEG ratio less than 1, a current price of at least $5, an average 20-day volume of at least 100,000, and a Zacks Rank of 1 or 2 [12][13][14]. Selected Stocks - Five stocks identified with low P/B ratios and solid growth potential include: - **StoneCo (STNE)**: Financial technology solutions provider with a projected 3-5 year EPS growth rate of 30.3% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [15]. - **Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD)**: Largest U.S. dredging services provider with a projected EPS growth rate of 12.0% and a Zacks Rank of 1 [16]. - **EnerSys (ENS)**: Manufacturer of industrial batteries with a projected EPS growth rate of 15.0% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [17]. - **MillerKnoll (MLKN)**: Design solutions provider with a projected EPS growth rate of 12.0% and a Zacks Rank of 2 [17]. - **Keros Therapeutics (KROS)**: Clinical-stage biotech with a projected EPS growth rate of 23.6% and a Zacks Rank of 1 [18].

Core Insights - EnerSys reported Q1 FY2026 earnings with revenue of $893.0 million, a 4.7% increase year-over-year, but missed analyst estimates of $939.8 million [1][2] - Adjusted diluted EPS (non-GAAP) rose to $2.08, reflecting a 5.1% increase from $1.98 in Q1 FY2025, but fell short of the expected $2.59 [2] - The company suspended full-year quantitative guidance for FY2026 due to external uncertainties and operational challenges [1] Financial Performance - Revenue increased by 4.7% year-over-year, driven by acquisitions, pricing improvements, and favorable currency movements [5] - Adjusted operating earnings (non-GAAP) grew by 8.1%, while EBITDA (non-GAAP) decreased by 8.8% to $103.9 million compared to $113.9 million in Q1 FY2025 [2][7] - Free cash flow (non-GAAP) was negative at $(32.1) million, attributed to seasonal working capital needs and higher inventories [7] Segment Analysis - The Energy Systems segment saw an 8.4% sales increase, with adjusted operating margins improving to 7.0% from 5.3% in Q1 FY2025 [6] - Motive Power segment sales fell by 4.7%, with adjusted operating margins decreasing from 15.3% to 13.4% due to weakened demand [6] - Specialty segment sales jumped by 18.1%, significantly boosted by the acquisition of Bren-Tronics [6] Strategic Focus - EnerSys emphasizes innovation in advanced battery technologies, including TPPL and lithium-ion batteries, while managing lead costs [4][11] - The company is implementing a new strategic framework, "EnerGize," targeting approximately $80 million in annualized cost savings through workforce reduction and reorganization [10] - Regulatory compliance and sustainability remain priorities as the company serves a diverse global customer base [4] Shareholder Returns - The quarterly dividend was raised by 9% to $0.2625 per share, reflecting a commitment to shareholder capital returns [9][14] - The company completed $150 million in share repurchases, a significant increase from $11.6 million in Q1 FY2025 [9] Future Outlook - Management forecasts Q2 FY2026 net sales between $870 million and $910 million, with adjusted diluted EPS between $2.33 and $2.43 [12] - The company did not provide full-year guidance for FY2026 due to uncertainties around tariffs and customer order behavior [12] - Key factors to watch include organic growth in core business areas, realization of cost savings, and the impact of IRC 45X tax credits on profitability [13]

Core Viewpoint - Xerox Holdings Corporation reported a quarterly loss of $0.06 per share, which was worse than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of $0.05, marking an earnings surprise of -20% [1] - The company has consistently missed consensus EPS estimates over the last four quarters [2] Financial Performance - Xerox posted revenues of $1.46 billion for the quarter ended March 2025, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 3.19%, compared to $1.5 billion in revenues a year ago [2] - The company has only surpassed consensus revenue estimates once in the last four quarters [2] Stock Performance - Xerox shares have declined approximately 47.7% since the beginning of the year, in contrast to the S&P 500's decline of -5.3% [3] - The current Zacks Rank for Xerox is 4 (Sell), indicating expected underperformance in the near future [6] Earnings Outlook - The current consensus EPS estimate for the upcoming quarter is $0.25 on revenues of $1.58 billion, and for the current fiscal year, it is $0.72 on revenues of $6.25 billion [7] - The trend for estimate revisions ahead of the earnings release has been unfavorable [6] Industry Context - The Office Supplies industry, to which Xerox belongs, is currently ranked in the bottom 13% of over 250 Zacks industries, suggesting a challenging environment [8]

Market Overview - The U.S. stock market is experiencing a strong bull run, driven by economic resilience and increased CEO confidence, which reached an index of 60 in Q1 2025, indicating "confident optimism" [1] - The economy expanded by 2.8% in Q4 2024, supported by a robust labor market, while a 1% rate cut by the Federal Reserve has lowered borrowing costs, promoting business expansions and consumer spending [1] - Inflation is trending towards the Fed's 2% target, leading to optimism about further monetary easing in 2025 [1] Investment Strategy - Investors are encouraged to focus on relative price strength, identifying stocks that outperform their peers as market trends strengthen [2] - High-performing stocks with strong relative price momentum are seen as advantageous in navigating the ongoing bull market [2] Recommended Stocks - **Pitney Bowes (PBI)**: Expected earnings growth of 47.6% for 2025, with a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of approximately 96.6% and a share price increase of 177.4% over the past year [10][11] - **The Hanover Insurance Group (THG)**: Projected earnings growth of 7.7% for 2025, with a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of about 21.7% and a share price increase of 20.2% over the past year [12][13] - **EnerSys (ENS)**: Anticipated EPS growth rate of 19.8% for fiscal 2025, with a 12.8% share price increase over the past year [14][15] - **First Financial Corporation (THFF)**: Expected earnings growth of 39% for 2025, with a share price increase of 38.6% over the past year [16][17] Screening Parameters - Stocks are screened based on relative price changes over 12 weeks, 4 weeks, and 1 week, as well as positive current-quarter estimate revisions [8] - Only Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy) stocks that have historically outperformed the S&P 500 are considered, with a minimum price of $5 and adequate trading volume [9][10]