Stocks trading between $10 and $50 can be particularly interesting as they frequently represent businesses that have survived their early challenges. However, investors should remain vigilant as some may still have unproven business models, leaving them vulnerable to the ebbs and flows of the broader market.
These dynamics can cause headaches for even the most seasoned professionals, which is why we started StockStory - to help you separate the good companies from the bad. That said, here are three stocks under $50 to swipe left on and some alternatives you should look into instead.
American Airlines (AAL)
Share Price: $11.85
One of the ‘Big Four’ airlines in the US, American Airlines (NASDAQ: AAL) is a major global air carrier that serves both business and leisure travelers through its domestic and international flights.
Why Is AAL Risky?
- Number of revenue passenger miles has disappointed over the past two years, indicating weak demand for its offerings
- ROIC of 3.3% reflects management’s challenges in identifying attractive investment opportunities
- High net-debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 6× could force the company to raise capital at unfavorable terms if market conditions deteriorate
American Airlines is trading at $11.85 per share, or 7.9x forward P/E. Dive into our free research report to see why there are better opportunities than AAL.
Progyny (PGNY)
Share Price: $20.59
Pioneering a data-driven approach to family building that has achieved an industry-leading patient satisfaction score of +80, Progyny (NASDAQ: PGNY) provides comprehensive fertility and family building benefits solutions to employers, helping employees access quality fertility treatments and support services.
Why Are We Wary of PGNY?
- Smaller revenue base of $1.24 billion means it hasn’t achieved the economies of scale that some industry juggernauts enjoy
- Estimated sales growth of 4.8% for the next 12 months implies demand will slow from its two-year trend
- Underwhelming 0.6% return on capital reflects management’s difficulties in finding profitable growth opportunities
At $20.59 per share, Progyny trades at 12x forward P/E. If you’re considering PGNY for your portfolio, see our FREE research report to learn more.
Simmons First National (SFNC)
Share Price: $19.50
With roots dating back to 1903 and a presence across Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas, Simmons First National (NASDAQ: SFNC) is a regional bank holding company that provides banking and financial services to individuals and businesses.
Why Should You Sell SFNC?
- Products and services are facing significant end-market challenges during this cycle as sales have declined by 4.9% annually over the last two years
- Loans are facing end-market challenges during this cycle, as seen in its flat net interest income over the last five years
- Performance over the past five years shows each sale was less profitable as its earnings per share dropped by 10.1% annually, worse than its revenue
Simmons First National’s stock price of $19.50 implies a valuation ratio of 0.7x forward P/B. Check out our free in-depth research report to learn more about why SFNC doesn’t pass our bar.
Stocks We Like More
When Trump unveiled his aggressive tariff plan in April 2025, markets tanked as investors feared a full-blown trade war. But those who panicked and sold missed the subsequent rebound that’s already erased most losses.
Don’t let fear keep you from great opportunities and take a look at 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-micro-cap company Kadant (+351% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today for free. Find your next big winner with StockStory today. Find your next big winner with StockStory today
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