Value investing has produced some of the world’s most famous investing billionaires, including Warren Buffett, David Einhorn, and Seth Klarman, who built their fortunes by purchasing wonderful businesses at reasonable prices. But these hidden gems are few and far between - many stocks that appear cheap often stay that way because they face structural issues.
This distinction between true value and value traps can challenge even the most skilled investors. Luckily for you, we started StockStory to help you uncover exceptional companies. That said, here are three value stocks with little support and some other investments you should consider instead.
Edgewell Personal Care (EPC)
Forward P/E Ratio: 10.6x
Boasting brands such as Banana Boat, Schick, and Skintimate, Edgewell Personal Care (NYSE: EPC) sells personal care products in the skin and sun care, shave, and feminine care categories.
Why Should You Dump EPC?
- Absence of organic revenue growth over the past two years suggests it may have to lean into acquisitions to drive its expansion
- Operating profits fell over the last year as its sales dropped and it struggled to adjust its fixed costs
- High net-debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 6× could force the company to raise capital at unfavorable terms if market conditions deteriorate
Edgewell Personal Care is trading at $22.35 per share, or 10.6x forward P/E. If you’re considering EPC for your portfolio, see our FREE research report to learn more.
Northern Trust (NTRS)
Forward P/E Ratio: 14.3x
Founded in 1889 during Chicago's post-Great Fire rebuilding boom, Northern Trust (NASDAQ: NTRS) provides wealth management, asset servicing, and banking solutions to corporations, institutions, families, and high-net-worth individuals globally.
Why Are We Hesitant About NTRS?
- Annual revenue growth of 5.8% over the last five years was below our standards for the financials sector
- Earnings growth underperformed the sector average over the last five years as its EPS grew by just 9.3% annually
Northern Trust’s stock price of $140.39 implies a valuation ratio of 14.3x forward P/E. Check out our free in-depth research report to learn more about why NTRS doesn’t pass our bar.
Bunge Global (BG)
Forward P/E Ratio: 15.2x
With origins dating back to 1818 and operations spanning both hemispheres to balance seasonal harvests, Bunge Global (NYSE: BG) is an agribusiness and food company that processes oilseeds, grains, and other agricultural commodities into vegetable oils, protein meals, flours, and specialty ingredients.
Why Does BG Worry Us?
- Annual sales growth of 1.5% over the last three years lagged behind its consumer staples peers as its large revenue base made it difficult to generate incremental demand
- Incremental sales over the last three years were much less profitable as its earnings per share fell by 19.1% annually while its revenue grew
- Unfavorable liquidity position could lead to additional equity financing that dilutes shareholders
At $121.31 per share, Bunge Global trades at 15.2x forward P/E. Read our free research report to see why you should think twice about including BG in your portfolio.
Stocks We Like More
If your portfolio success hinges on just 4 stocks, your wealth is built on fragile ground. You have a small window to secure high-quality assets before the market widens and these prices disappear.
Don’t wait for the next volatility shock. Check 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 244% over the last five years (as of June 30, 2025).
Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,326% between June 2020 and June 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.
