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The Russell 2000 is among the most popular indexes, representing the smallest 2000 companies in the Russell 3000. The index is characterized by small and mid-cap companies, making it more volatile and offering substantial growth potential. After a challenging 2023 due to economic instability, many stocks in the index are currently trading at discounted prices. Here are three of the best Russell 2000 stocks to consider in February 2024.
Celsius Holdings (CELH)
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Celsius (NASDAQ:CELH) is an American energy drink company that has been taking the market by storm. Their stock price has increased by almost 100% in the past year and over 5000% in the past 5 years, however, they still have room for growth.
The company has been recently implementing a successful advertisement strategy involving sports such as F1 and college football, which has boosted its bottom line. Additionally, they have been expanding to new international markets, announcing distribution in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, all expected to improve the company’s financials.
Celsius reported revenue of $384.7 million, marking an increase of over 100% year over year. The company also reported net income of $84 million, representing an increase of nearly 150% year over year. With stable finances and rapid growth, the company has the potential to surpass its current rate.
Crocs (CROX)
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Crocs (NASDAQ:CROX) was founded in 1999 and is one of the largest shoe designers and producers in the United States. The company, known for its innovative styles, has expanded to accessories and acquired other shoe retailers such as Heydude. Despite the acquisition of Heydude impacting Crocs’ performance, the company’s main segment is demonstrating strength and continuous high growth rates. The stock, currently down 28% from its 2023 peak primarily due to the acquisition, presents an opportunity to invest in a stable company at a major discount.
Ensign Group (ENSG)
The Rising Star: Ensign Group’s Growth Trajectory
Positioned for Prosperity
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Ensign Group (NASDAQ:ENSG) has carved out a formidable niche in the American healthcare landscape, offering a range of services spanning nursing, urgent care, rehabilitative care, and senior assisted living facilities. In the light of America’s rapidly aging population, the company has strategically positioned itself to ride the crest of this demographic wave, making it a compelling long-term growth play.
Outpacing the Competition
While the industry average net income growth stands at 8.5%, Ensign has surged ahead, boasting a remarkable threefold increase over its competitors’ growth rates in the past 5 years. What’s more, the company’s prudent capital allocation strategy shines through, with close to 95% of its profits being channeled back into the business for sustained expansion.
The most recent fourth-quarter earnings report has further bolstered Ensign’s position, revealing a rosy financial outlook. Impressively, for four consecutive quarters, the company has outstripped the anticipated EPS estimates, with a robust 16.4% year-on-year growth. Armed with such stellar financials and expansive growth potential, Ensign is undeniably on track to outshine its peers in the healthcare industry.
On the date of publication, Tomas Levani did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com
