
Stability is great, but low-volatility stocks may struggle to deliver market-beating returns over time as they sometimes underperform during bull markets.
Finding the right balance between safety and returns isn’t easy, which is why StockStory is here to help. That said, here is one low-volatility stock that could succeed under all market conditions and two that may not deliver the returns you need.
Two Stocks to Sell:
Amphastar Pharmaceuticals (AMPH)
Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.79
Founded in 1996 and known for its expertise in complex drug formulations, Amphastar Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:AMPH) develops and manufactures technically challenging injectable and inhalation medications, including both generic and proprietary pharmaceutical products.
Why Are We Cautious About AMPH?
- Annual revenue growth of 1.2% over the last two years was below our standards for the healthcare sector
- Revenue base of $730 million puts it at a disadvantage compared to larger competitors exhibiting economies of scale
- Day-to-day expenses have swelled relative to revenue over the last two years as its adjusted operating margin fell by 12.7 percentage points
At $25.53 per share, Amphastar Pharmaceuticals trades at 8.1x forward P/E. To fully understand why you should be careful with AMPH, check out our full research report (it’s free).
Transocean (RIG)
Rolling One-Year Beta: -0.16
Operating one of the world's most capable fleets of ultra-deepwater drillships and harsh environment rigs, Transocean (NYSE:RIG) operates drilling rigs that energy companies rent to drill oil and gas wells in deep ocean waters.
Why Are We Bearish on RIG?
- Products and services are facing significant end-market challenges during this cycle as sales have declined by 3.3% annually over the last ten years
- Gross margin of 38.1% is below its competitors, leaving less money to invest in exploration and production
- Poor free cash flow margin of 5.2% for the last five years limits its freedom to invest in growth initiatives, execute share buybacks, or pay dividends
Transocean’s stock price of $5.41 implies a valuation ratio of 28.9x forward P/E. Read our free research report to see why you should think twice about including RIG in your portfolio.
One Stock to Watch:
Boston Scientific (BSX)
Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.47
Founded in 1979 with a mission to advance less-invasive medicine, Boston Scientific (NYSE:BSX) develops and manufactures medical devices used in minimally invasive procedures across cardiovascular, urological, neurological, and gastrointestinal specialties.
Why Does BSX Stand Out?
- Average organic revenue growth of 15.8% over the past two years demonstrates its ability to expand independently without relying on acquisitions
- Incremental sales significantly boosted profitability as its annual earnings per share growth of 18.6% over the last five years outstripped its revenue performance
- Free cash flow margin grew by 12.3 percentage points over the last five years, giving the company more chips to play with
Boston Scientific is trading at $41.64 per share, or 13x forward P/E. Is now the time to initiate a position? See for yourself in our in-depth 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-micro-cap company Tecnoglass (+1,552% between June 2020 and June 2025). Find your next big winner with StockStory today.