Small-cap industrials with big potential

Article Excerpt

Small-cap stocks, generally thought of as those with a market capitalization under $1 billion, have not performed as well as larger companies during the recent market volatility. Over the past year, the Russell 3000 Index, which has median market cap of $807 million, has gained 5.0%, compared to 7.4% for the Dow Jones Industrial Average. That’s because most investors prefer larger companies with steady earnings and dividends in times of economic uncertainty. Like many small caps, the four industrial stocks below have been volatile lately. However, we feel they are suitable for most portfolios. That’s because all four are leaders in their industries, which gives them a competitive advantage. They are also cutting costs. However, only two are buys right now. TENNANT CORP. $32 (New York symbol TNC; Aggressive Growth Portfolio, Manufacturing & Industry sector; Shares outstanding: 19.0 million; Market cap: $608.0 million; Price-to-sales ratio: 1.0; Dividend yield: 1.8%; WSSF Rating: Average) makes industrial floor-cleaning equipment, including scrubbers, sweepers and polishers. It…