Finding the right stock at the right price can be a grueling process, and sometimes our searches turn up zero results and leave us frustrated. To make things very easy for you, I have done the hard part and compiled a list of three small-cap stocks that are trading at inexpensive valuations compared with their five-year averages, so let’s take a closer look at each so you can decide which would fit best in your portfolio.
1. Russel Metals Inc.
Russel Metals Inc. (TSX:RUS) is one of North America’s largest metals distribution companies. At today’s levels, its stock trades at 16.3 times fiscal 2015’s estimated earnings per share of $1.40 and 12.9 times fiscal 2016’s estimated earnings per share of $1.77, both of which are inexpensive compared with its five-year average price-to-earnings multiple of 22. In addition, the company pays a quarterly dividend of $0.38 per share, or $1.52 per share annually, giving its stock a 6.65% yield.
2. Student Transportation Inc.
Student Transportation Inc. (TSX:STB)(NASDAQ:STB) is one of the largest providers of school bus transportation services in North America. At current levels, its stock trades at 143.8 times fiscal 2015’s estimated earnings per share of $0.04 and 95.8 times fiscal 2016’s estimated earnings per share of $0.06, both of which are inexpensive compared with its five-year average price-to-earnings multiple of 178.2. Additionally, the company pays a monthly dividend of $0.0464 per share, or $0.556 per share annually, which gives its stock a 9.7% yield.
3. AGF Management Limited
AGF Management Limited (TSX:AGF.B) is a Canadian-based investment management firm, serving institutions and individuals worldwide. At today’s levels, its stock trades at nine times fiscal 2015’s estimated earnings per share of $0.66 and 8.5 times fiscal 2016’s estimated earnings per share of $0.70, both of which are inexpensive compared with its five-year average price-to-earnings multiple of 21.7. Also, the company pays a quarterly dividend of $0.08 per share, or $0.32 per share annually, giving its stock a 5.4% yield.
Should you buy one of these small caps today?
Russel Metals, Student Transportation, and AGF Financial are three of the most attractive small-cap stocks in the market today. Foolish investors should take a closer look and consider buying one of them.
