HomeMost PopularThe Rise of Underrated Stocks: 5 Hidden Gems for Your Investment Radar

The Rise of Underrated Stocks: 5 Hidden Gems for Your Investment Radar

Daily Market Recaps (no fluff)

always free

InvestorPlace – Stock Market News, Stock Advice & Trading Tips

Every savvy investor knows that the stock market is teeming with opportunities, from stalwart stocks for conservative investors to riskier bets with potentially robust returns. While established giants like the Magnificent Seven dominate headlines, there are other lesser-known stocks quietly making waves in the market. Here are five hidden gems that deserve a spot on your investment radar.

Cava (CAVA)

A snapshot of Cava Group, a Mediterranean fast food restaurant chain established in 2006 in Rockville, Maryland.

Source: Nicole Glass Photography / Shutterstock.com

Cava (NYSE:CAVA) may be a small player in the fast-food industry, but its spectacular growth trajectory cannot be ignored. With a modest market cap of $7.5 billion and a soaring P/E ratio exceeding 300, Cava has defied conventional wisdom. The corporation witnessed a remarkable 59.8% surge in revenue in Q4 2023, backed by the opening of 72 new Cava restaurants in fiscal 2023.

Setting its sights on reshaping the culinary landscape, Cava has achieved three consecutive quarters of positive net income, positioning itself for substantial profit margin hikes in the upcoming quarters. Despite a modest net profit margin of around 1% in the last quarter, Cava has seen a phenomenal 59% surge in its stock value year-to-date, making it a darling of investors flocking to this emerging fast-food chain.

Qualcomm (QCOM)

An image of Qualcomm Stadium, showcasing the headquarters of semiconductor giant Qualcomm.

Source: Katherine Welles / Shutterstock.com

Qualcomm (NASDAQ:QCOM), a semiconductor behemoth, has navigated past the headwinds of 2023 and is now on an upward trajectory. After several quarters of revenue and earnings declines, the company reported a solid 5% year-over-year revenue growth in Q1 of fiscal 2024, coupled with a 24% increase in net income.

Boasting Snapdragon platforms that capitalize on generative AI, Qualcomm boasts a modest 24 P/E ratio and a nearly 2% dividend yield. With an 18% year-to-date gain outpacing the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq 100, Qualcomm aims to clock $8.9 billion to $9.7 billion in Q2 FY24 revenue, signaling potential growth opportunities as it leaves behind last year’s hurdles.

Meta Platforms (META)

A depiction of the Meta logo on a smartphone screen, alongside the Facebook logo in the background.

Source: rafapress / Shutterstock.com

Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META), the social media giant, has been a driving force behind the success of many funds and indices. With a stellar performance in 2023, Meta Platforms tripled its net income year-over-year in Q4 2023, accompanied by a 25% rise in revenue.

As the battleground for users’ attention intensifies, Meta Platforms continues to attract and retain users across its family of apps, including Instagram and WhatsApp. With a growing user base and enhanced engagement, Meta Platforms is well-poised for sustained growth.

Synopsys (SNPS)

A person holding a smartphone displaying American technology company Synopsys Inc.'s logo.

Source: T. Schneider / Shutterstock.com

Synopsys (NASDAQ:SNPS), a semiconductor leader, is gearing up for significant growth through a strategic acquisition to expand its market presence. With a formidable 21% year-over-year revenue growth in Q1 of fiscal 2024 and a remarkable 65% surge in net income, Synopsys has delivered consistent outperformance in the market.

Having outperformed the stock market over multiple years, Synopsys is set to leverage a recent collaboration with Nvidia to drive further innovation in chip design, automation, and manufacturing. The company’s robust business model, coupled with the Nvidia partnership, promises long-term rewards for shareholders.

Deckers Outdoor (DECK)

The logo of Deckers Outdoor displayed on a smartphone screen.

Source: shutterstock.com/Piotr Swat

Deckers Outdoor (NYSE:DECK), an athletic apparel company boasting renowned brands like Hoka and Ugg, has been silently outpacing industry stalwarts like Nike. With consistent profit margins exceeding 20% and a remarkable 544% gain over the past five years, Deckers Outdoor offers a compelling investment case.

Having recorded a 16% year-over-year revenue increase and a 40% surge in net income in Q3 of fiscal 2024, coupled with elevated revenue and EPS guidance, Deckers Outdoor has earned a “Strong Buy” rating from 16 analysts, solidifying its position as a promising investment opportunity.

Driving Toward Dazzling Heights: A Deep Dive Into American Express and The Trade Desk

American Express (AXP)

the American Express logo etched into wood

Source: First Class Photography / Shutterstock.com

American Express (NYSE:AXP) is not just a player in the financial world – it’s a phoenix that consistently rises above market volatility. The credit and debit card company doesn’t just promise growth; it delivers. With a 1.27% dividend yield and a recent 17% payout increase, it’s a darling for those seeking reliable returns.

A 39% uptick in the last year is a testament to AXP’s allure. The company’s profit margins soar thanks to unwavering consumer spending. Even when financial storms rage, AXP stands strong – a beacon for those seeking stability amidst chaos.

Numbers don’t lie – AXP’s Q4 2023 earnings report boasted an 11% revenue surge and a jaw-dropping 23% net income spike year-over-year. The future forecast is equally tantalizing, with double-digit growth anticipated on both the top and bottom lines for years to come.

The Trade Desk (TTD)

The logo for The Trade Desk is displayed on a smart phone.

Source: Tada Images / Shutterstock.com

The Trade Desk (NASDAQ:TTD) doesn’t just advertise products – it advertises success. A $39 billion market cap speaks volumes about TTD’s dominance in the programmatic advertising realm. With a 23% revenue growth year-over-year and a 37% net income surge in Q4 2023, it’s not just on the radar; it’s setting the pace.

A 293% surge over the past five years is no mean feat. TTD boasts a “Strong Buy” rating, with analysts anticipating a 21% uptick from the current price. The company’s foray into lucrative advertising segments like connected TV and retail media will only fuel this acceleration further.

The Trade Desk is slated to rake in a minimum revenue of $478 million in Q1 of 2024, translating to an impressive 24.8% year-over-year growth. As margins beef up, so will the company’s valuation – a formula for sustained success in the long run.

On this date of publication, Marc Guberti held long positions in CAVA, SNPS, and DECK. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com Publishing Guidelines.

Marc Guberti is a finance freelance writer at InvestorPlace.com who hosts the Breakthrough Success Podcast. He has contributed to several publications, including the U.S. News & World Report, Benzinga, and Joy Wallet.

More From InvestorPlace

The post The Next Big Stocks to Watch: 7 for Your Must-Buy List appeared first on InvestorPlace.

The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Do you want a daily market summary with no fluff?

Simple Straightforward Daily Stock Market Recaps Sent for free,every single trading day: Read Now

Explore More

Simple Straightforward Daily Stock Market Recaps

Get institutional-level analysis to take your trading to the next level, sign up for free and become apart of the community.