Value stocks typically trade at discounts to the broader market, offering patient investors the opportunity to buy businesses when they’re out of favor. The key risk, however, is that these stocks are usually cheap for a reason – five cents for a piece of fruit may seem like a great deal until you find out it’s rotten.
This distinction between true value and value traps can challenge even the most skilled investors. Luckily for you, we started StockStory to help you uncover exceptional companies. That said, here are three value stocks with little support and some other investments you should consider instead.
Harley-Davidson (HOG)
Forward P/E Ratio: 10.2x
Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson (NYSE:HOG) is an American motorcycle manufacturer known for its heavyweight motorcycles designed for cruising on highways.
Why Are We Wary of HOG?
- Demand for its offerings was relatively low as its number of motorcycles sold has underwhelmed
- Eroding returns on capital suggest its historical profit centers are aging
- High net-debt-to-EBITDA ratio could force the company to raise capital at unfavorable terms if market conditions deteriorate
At $29.04 per share, Harley-Davidson trades at 10.2x forward P/E. Check out our free in-depth research report to learn more about why HOG doesn’t pass our bar.
Diebold Nixdorf (DBD)
Forward P/E Ratio: 13.2x
With roots dating back to 1859 and a presence in over 100 countries, Diebold Nixdorf (NYSE:DBD) provides automated self-service technology, software, and services that help banks and retailers digitize their customer transactions.
Why Does DBD Give Us Pause?
- Sales tumbled by 1.8% annually over the last five years, showing market trends are working against its favor during this cycle
- Cash-burning tendencies make us wonder if it can sustainably generate shareholder value
- ROIC of 3% reflects management’s challenges in identifying attractive investment opportunities
Diebold Nixdorf’s stock price of $57.54 implies a valuation ratio of 13.2x forward P/E. Read our free research report to see why you should think twice about including DBD in your portfolio.
Stifel (SF)
Forward P/E Ratio: 13.7x
Tracing its roots back to 1890 when the firm was established in St. Louis, Stifel Financial (NYSE:SF) is a financial services firm that provides wealth management, investment banking, and institutional brokerage services to individuals, corporations, and institutions.
Why Do We Think Twice About SF?
- Muted 7.5% annual revenue growth over the last five years shows its demand lagged behind its financials peers
- Incremental sales over the last two years were less profitable as its 4.1% annual earnings per share growth lagged its revenue gains
- Capital trends were unexciting over the last two years as its 4% annual book value per share growth was below the typical financials firm
Stifel is trading at $114.57 per share, or 13.7x forward P/E. To fully understand why you should be careful with SF, check out our full research report (it’s free).
Stocks We Like More
When Trump unveiled his aggressive tariff plan in April 2025, markets tanked as investors feared a full-blown trade war. But those who panicked and sold missed the subsequent rebound that’s already erased most losses.
Don’t let fear keep you from great opportunities and take a look at Top 5 Growth Stocks for this month. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 183% over the last five years (as of March 31st 2025).
Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,545% between March 2020 and March 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-small-cap company Exlservice (+354% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today for free.
StockStory is growing and hiring equity analyst and marketing roles. Are you a 0 to 1 builder passionate about the markets and AI? See the open roles here.