Stability is great, but low-volatility stocks may struggle to deliver market-beating returns over time as they sometimes underperform during bull markets.

Finding the right balance between safety and returns isn’t easy, which is why StockStory is here to help. That said, here is one low-volatility stock that could offer consistent gains and two that may not deliver the returns you need.

Two Stocks to Sell:

Lancaster Colony (LANC)

Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.05

Known for its frozen garlic bread and Parkerhouse rolls, Lancaster Colony (NASDAQ: LANC) sells bread, dressing, and dips to the retail and food service channels.

Why Does LANC Worry Us?

1. Annual revenue growth of 5.4% over the last three years was below our standards for the consumer staples sector
2. Modest revenue base of $1.89 billion gives it less fixed cost leverage and fewer distribution channels than larger companies
3. Estimated sales growth of 1.7% for the next 12 months implies demand will slow from its three-year trend

Lancaster Colony’s stock price of $167.07 implies a valuation ratio of 23.6x forward P/E. To fully understand why you should be careful with LANC, check out our full research report (it’s free).

Dave & Buster's (PLAY)

Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.86

Founded by a former game parlor and bar operator, Dave & Buster’s (NASDAQ: PLAY) operates a chain of arcades providing immersive entertainment experiences.

Why Do We Think PLAY Will Underperform?

1. Weak same-store sales trends over the past two years suggest there may be few opportunities in its core markets to open new locations
2. Cash-burning tendencies make us wonder if it can sustainably generate shareholder value
3. Limited cash reserves may force the company to seek unfavorable financing terms that could dilute shareholders

At $23.73 per share, Dave & Buster's trades at 8.7x forward P/E. Read our free research report to see why you should think twice about including PLAY in your portfolio.

One Stock to Watch:

Tractor Supply (TSCO)

Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.54

Started as a mail-order tractor parts business, Tractor Supply (NASDAQ: TSCO) is a retailer of general goods such as agricultural supplies, hardware, and pet food for the rural consumer.

Why Could TSCO Be a Winner?

1. Rapidly increasing store base reflects a desire to sell in new markets and scale quickly
2. Sales outlook for the upcoming 12 months implies the business will stay on its desirable six-year growth trajectory
3. Industry-leading 35.2% return on capital demonstrates management’s skill in finding high-return investments

Tractor Supply is trading at $49.58 per share, or 22.4x forward P/E. Is now the time to initiate a position? Find out in our full research report, it’s free.

Stocks We Like Even More

The market surged in 2024 and reached record highs after Donald Trump’s presidential victory in November, but questions about new economic policies are adding much uncertainty for 2025.

While the crowd speculates what might happen next, we’re homing in on the companies that can succeed regardless of the political or macroeconomic environment. Put yourself in the driver’s seat and build a durable portfolio by checking out our Top 9 Market-Beating Stocks. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 183% over the last five years (as of March 31st 2025).

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 Exlservice (+354% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today for free.