ETFOptimize | High-performance ETF-based Investment Strategies

Quantitative strategies, Wall Street-caliber research, and insightful market analysis since 1998.


ETFOptimize | HOME
Close Window

2 Safe-and-Steady Stocks for Long-Term Investors and 1 to Avoid

LBRDK Cover Image

A stock with low volatility can be reassuring, but it doesn’t always mean strong long-term performance. Investors who prioritize stability may miss out on higher-reward opportunities elsewhere.

Luckily for you, StockStory helps you navigate which companies are truly worth holding. Keeping that in mind, here are two low-volatility stocks that could succeed under all market conditions and one stuck in limbo.

One Stock to Sell:

Liberty Broadband (LBRDK)

Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.70

Operating across the United States, Liberty Broadband (NASDAQ: LBRDK) is a provider of high-speed internet, cable television, and telecommunications services across various markets.

Why Are We Out on LBRDK?

  1. Muted 2.7% annual revenue growth over the last two years shows its demand lagged behind its business services peers
  2. 34.1 percentage point decline in its free cash flow margin over the last five years reflects the company’s increased investments to defend its market position
  3. Short cash runway increases the probability of a capital raise that dilutes existing shareholders

At $93.43 per share, Liberty Broadband trades at 53.3x forward EV-to-EBITDA. To fully understand why you should be careful with LBRDK, check out our full research report (it’s free).

Two Stocks to Watch:

Armstrong World (AWI)

Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.87

Started as a two-man shop dating back to the 1860s, Armstrong (NYSE: AWI) provides ceiling and wall products to commercial and residential spaces.

Why Does AWI Stand Out?

  1. Annual revenue growth of 9.2% over the last two years beat the sector average and underscores the unique value of its offerings
  2. Highly efficient business model is illustrated by its impressive 24.6% operating margin
  3. Strong free cash flow margin of 19.6% enables it to reinvest or return capital consistently

Armstrong World’s stock price of $156.43 implies a valuation ratio of 21.8x forward P/E. Is now the right time to buy? See for yourself in our comprehensive research report, it’s free.

HCA Healthcare (HCA)

Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.23

With roots dating back to 1968 and a network spanning 20 states, HCA Healthcare (NYSE: HCA) operates a network of 190 hospitals and 150+ outpatient facilities providing a full range of medical services across the US and England.

Why Are We Fans of HCA?

  1. Dominant market position is represented by its $71.59 billion in revenue, which creates significant barriers to entry in this highly regulated industry
  2. Share repurchases over the last five years enabled its annual earnings per share growth of 20.7% to outpace its revenue gains
  3. Stellar returns on capital showcase management’s ability to surface highly profitable business ventures

HCA Healthcare is trading at $363 per share, or 14.1x forward P/E. Is now a good time to buy? Find out in our full research report, it’s free.

High-Quality Stocks for All Market Conditions

Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election sent major indices to all-time highs, but stocks have retraced as investors debate the health of the economy and the potential impact of tariffs.

While this leaves much uncertainty around 2025, a few companies are poised for long-term gains regardless of the political or macroeconomic climate, like our Top 5 Strong Momentum Stocks for this week. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 176% over the last five years.

Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,545% between March 2020 and March 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-small-cap company Comfort Systems (+782% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today for free.

Stock Quote API & Stock News API supplied by www.cloudquote.io
Quotes delayed at least 20 minutes.
By accessing this page, you agree to the following
Privacy Policy and Terms Of Service.


 

IntelligentValue Home
Close Window

DISCLAIMER

All content herein is issued solely for informational purposes and is not to be construed as an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor should it be interpreted as a recommendation to buy, hold or sell (short or otherwise) any security.  All opinions, analyses, and information included herein are based on sources believed to be reliable, but no representation or warranty of any kind, expressed or implied, is made including but not limited to any representation or warranty concerning accuracy, completeness, correctness, timeliness or appropriateness. We undertake no obligation to update such opinions, analysis or information. You should independently verify all information contained on this website. Some information is based on analysis of past performance or hypothetical performance results, which have inherent limitations. We make no representation that any particular equity or strategy will or is likely to achieve profits or losses similar to those shown. Shareholders, employees, writers, contractors, and affiliates associated with ETFOptimize.com may have ownership positions in the securities that are mentioned. If you are not sure if ETFs, algorithmic investing, or a particular investment is right for you, you are urged to consult with a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA). Neither this website nor anyone associated with producing its content are Registered Investment Advisors, and no attempt is made herein to substitute for personalized, professional investment advice. Neither ETFOptimize.com, Global Alpha Investments, Inc., nor its employees, service providers, associates, or affiliates are responsible for any investment losses you may incur as a result of using the information provided herein. Remember that past investment returns may not be indicative of future returns.

Copyright © 1998-2017 ETFOptimize.com, a publication of Optimized Investments, Inc. All rights reserved.