The Russell 2000 (^RUT) is home to many small-cap stocks, offering investors the chance to uncover hidden gems before the broader market catches on. However, these companies often come with higher volatility and risk, as their smaller size makes them more vulnerable to economic downturns.
Picking the right small caps isn’t easy, and that’s exactly why StockStory exists - to help you focus on the best opportunities. Keeping that in mind, here is one Russell 2000 stock that could be a breakout winner and two that may face some trouble.
Two Stocks to Sell:
Global Industrial (GIC)
Market Cap: $1.51 billion
Formerly known as Systemax, Global Industrial (NYSE: GIC) distributes industrial and commercial products to businesses and institutions.
Why Does GIC Worry Us?
- Muted 3.3% annual revenue growth over the last two years shows its demand lagged behind its industrials peers
- Flat earnings per share over the last two years lagged its peers
- Diminishing returns on capital suggest its earlier profit pools are drying up
At $39.52 per share, Global Industrial trades at 19.5x forward P/E. If you’re considering GIC for your portfolio, see our FREE research report to learn more.
CRA (CRAI)
Market Cap: $1.04 billion
Often retained for high-stakes matters with multibillion-dollar implications, CRA International (NASDAQ: CRAI) provides economic, financial, and management consulting services to corporations, law firms, and government agencies for litigation, regulatory proceedings, and business strategy.
Why Are We Wary of CRAI?
- Revenue base of $794.6 million puts it at a disadvantage compared to larger competitors exhibiting economies of scale
- Estimated sales growth of 1.8% for the next 12 months implies demand will slow from its two-year trend
- Free cash flow margin dropped by 8.7 percentage points over the last five years, implying the company became more capital intensive as competition picked up
CRA’s stock price of $165.61 implies a valuation ratio of 18.6x forward P/E. To fully understand why you should be careful with CRAI, check out our full research report (it’s free).
One Stock to Watch:
Napco (NSSC)
Market Cap: $1.28 billion
Protecting everything from schools to government facilities since 1969, Napco Security Technologies (NASDAQ: NSSC) manufactures electronic security devices, access control systems, and communication services for intrusion and fire alarm systems.
Why Does NSSC Catch Our Eye?
- Annual revenue growth of 12.1% over the past five years was outstanding, reflecting market share gains this cycle
- Impressive free cash flow profitability enables the company to fund new investments or reward investors with share buybacks/dividends, and its improved cash conversion implies it’s becoming a less capital-intensive business
- Rising returns on capital show management is finding more attractive investment opportunities
Napco is trading at $36.43 per share, or 22.9x forward P/E. Is now the time to initiate a position? Find out in our full research report, it’s free.
High-Quality Stocks for All Market Conditions
ALSO WORTH WATCHING: Top 5 Momentum Stocks. The best time to own a great stock is when the market is finally noticing it. These aren’t just high-quality businesses. Something is happening with them right now. Elite fundamentals meet near-term momentum — both boxes checked at the same time.
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Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,460% between June 2020 and June 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-small-cap company Exlservice (+271% between June 2020 and June 2025). Find your next big winner with StockStory today.
