2 Safe-and-Steady Stocks for Long-Term Investors and 1 to Avoid

LBRDK Cover Image
2 Safe-and-Steady Stocks for Long-Term Investors and 1 to Avoid

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A stock with low volatility can be reassuring, but it doesn’t always mean strong long-term performance. Investors who prioritize stability may miss out on higher-reward opportunities elsewhere.

Luckily for you, StockStory helps you navigate which companies are truly worth holding. Keeping that in mind, here are two low-volatility stocks that could succeed under all market conditions and one stuck in limbo.

One Stock to Sell:

Liberty Broadband (LBRDK)

Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.70

Operating across the United States, Liberty Broadband (NASDAQ:LBRDK) is a provider of high-speed internet, cable television, and telecommunications services across various markets.

Why Are We Out on LBRDK?

  1. Muted 2.7% annual revenue growth over the last two years shows its demand lagged behind its business services peers

  2. 34.1 percentage point decline in its free cash flow margin over the last five years reflects the company’s increased investments to defend its market position

  3. Short cash runway increases the probability of a capital raise that dilutes existing shareholders

At $93.43 per share, Liberty Broadband trades at 53.3x forward EV-to-EBITDA. Check out our free in-depth research report to learn more about why LBRDK doesn’t pass our bar.

Two Stocks to Watch:

Armstrong World (AWI)

Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.87

Started as a two-man shop dating back to the 1860s, Armstrong (NYSE:AWI) provides ceiling and wall products to commercial and residential spaces.

Why Does AWI Stand Out?

  1. Annual revenue growth of 9.2% over the last two years beat the sector average and underscores the unique value of its offerings

  2. Highly efficient business model is illustrated by its impressive 24.6% operating margin

  3. Strong free cash flow margin of 19.6% enables it to reinvest or return capital consistently

Armstrong World’s stock price of $156.43 implies a valuation ratio of 21.8x forward P/E. Is now the right time to buy? See for yourself in our full research report, it’s free.

HCA Healthcare (HCA)

Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.23

With roots dating back to 1968 and a network spanning 20 states, HCA Healthcare (NYSE:HCA) operates a network of 190 hospitals and 150+ outpatient facilities providing a full range of medical services across the US and England.

Why Are We Fans of HCA?

  1. Dominant market position is represented by its $71.59 billion in revenue, which creates significant barriers to entry in this highly regulated industry

  2. Share repurchases over the last five years enabled its annual earnings per share growth of 20.7% to outpace its revenue gains

  3. Stellar returns on capital showcase management’s ability to surface highly profitable business ventures