Investing in stocks during a downturn can present an opportunity to acquire high-quality assets at discounted prices. March 2025 brings several intriguing prospects for investors who seek value, dividend income, or potential rebound candidates. The following five stocks, all from the S&P 500 Low Volume 408 Screen, have faced significant price declines year-to-date (YTD). However, their strong fundamentals, attractive dividends, or potential for recovery make them compelling picks.
1. Edison International (EIX)
Stock Price: $54.44
Sector: Utilities
Industry: Electric Utilities
Annual Dividend Yield: 6.45%
Annual Dividend Rate: $3.31
YTD Price Change: -31.81%
Why Buy Edison International?
Edison International, a major player in the electric utilities industry, presents a high-dividend yield stock ideal for income investors. With an impressive 6.45% dividend yield, Edison provides a steady income stream even during market downturns.
Growth and Stability
Utilities are typically resilient, offering stable cash flows regardless of economic conditions. Although Edison International has seen a significant 31.81% YTD decline, the company’s fundamentals remain strong.
The Value Proposition
The recent decline in stock price makes Edison International an attractive bargain for investors looking for defensive stocks with strong dividend payouts. Moreover, as energy demand remains steady and regulations continue to favor renewable energy investments, EIX is well-positioned for a long-term rebound.
Investment Thesis:
Strong dividend yield for income investors.
Stability from the utilities sector.
Potential recovery from oversold conditions.
2. West Pharmaceutical Services Inc. (WST)
Stock Price: $232.34
Sector: Health Care
Industry: Life Sciences Tools & Services
Annual Dividend Yield: 0.38%
Annual Dividend Rate: $0.84
YTD Price Change: -29.07%
Why Buy West Pharmaceutical Services?
West Pharmaceutical Services is a leader in life sciences tools and services, specializing in drug containment and delivery systems. Despite a 29.07% YTD decline, WST remains a fundamentally strong company in the healthcare sector.
Innovation & Market Position
West Pharma is at the forefront of pharmaceutical packaging innovation, benefiting from the rising demand for injectable medications and biologics. Its partnerships with major pharmaceutical firms create a consistent revenue stream.
Growth Potential
While the company’s dividend yield is modest at 0.38%, its potential for capital appreciation is significant. With increasing global demand for advanced drug delivery systems, WST is positioned for long-term growth.
Investment Thesis:
High-growth potential in the pharmaceutical packaging industry.
Well-positioned for the increasing demand for injectable drugs.
Solid fundamentals despite recent price weakness.
3. Celanese Corp (CE)
Stock Price: $50.94
Sector: Materials
Industry: Specialty Chemicals
Annual Dividend Yield: 0.24%
Annual Dividend Rate: $0.12
YTD Price Change: -26.40%
Why Buy Celanese Corp?
Celanese is a global leader in specialty chemicals, supplying various industries, including automotive, industrial, and consumer markets. The stock has dropped 26.40% YTD, presenting an attractive entry point for long-term investors.
Industry Tailwinds
With an increasing demand for engineered materials and sustainable solutions, Celanese's chemical products play a crucial role in industrial manufacturing. Its innovative polymer solutions are expected to gain traction as industries shift towards more advanced materials.
Financial Strength
Although Celanese offers a relatively small dividend yield of 0.24%, its overall financial performance is strong. The company has a track record of solid revenue growth and disciplined capital management.
Investment Thesis:
Leading position in specialty chemicals.
Growth opportunities in industrial and consumer applications.
Attractive valuation following YTD decline.
4. Viatris Inc. (VTRS)
Stock Price: $9.23
Sector: Health Care
Industry: Pharmaceuticals
Annual Dividend Yield: 5.04%
Annual Dividend Rate: $0.48
YTD Price Change: -25.86%
Why Buy Viatris Inc.?
Viatris, a pharmaceutical company, is a global provider of generic and specialty medications. The stock’s 5.04% dividend yield makes it an attractive option for income-focused investors.
Competitive Advantage
Viatris benefits from a diversified product portfolio, with a mix of generic drugs, over-the-counter medications, and complex specialty drugs. Additionally, cost-cutting measures and efficiency initiatives have improved the company’s profitability outlook.
Undervalued Stock
With a stock price of $9.23, Viatris is a deep-value play. The company’s strong cash flow generation and dividend sustainability make it an appealing pick for investors looking for undervalued pharmaceutical stocks.
Investment Thesis:
High dividend yield with stable cash flows.
Strong presence in generics and specialty pharma.
Undervalued price with room for appreciation.
5. Teleflex Inc. (TFX)
Stock Price: $132.75
Sector: Health Care
Industry: Health Care Equipment & Supplies
Annual Dividend Yield: 0.98%
Annual Dividend Rate: $1.36
YTD Price Change: -25.41%
Why Buy Teleflex Inc.?
Teleflex is a leading provider of medical technologies used in surgical, critical care, and cardiovascular procedures. The company’s stock has declined 25.41% YTD, but its long-term growth prospects remain solid.
Market Growth & Stability
Teleflex’s diverse product portfolio spans essential medical equipment, making it a stable business in the healthcare sector. As the aging population increases demand for minimally invasive procedures, TFX is poised for long-term revenue growth.
Strong Fundamentals
Despite recent stock weakness, Teleflex has a history of consistent revenue growth and profitability. Its 0.98% dividend yield offers a moderate income component alongside potential capital appreciation.
Investment Thesis:
Market leader in essential healthcare equipment.
Increasing demand for minimally invasive medical procedures.
Attractive entry point for long-term investors.
Final Thoughts: Which Stock Is Right for You?
Each of these five stocks presents a compelling opportunity based on their sector, dividend yield, and growth potential. Here’s a quick comparison:
For income-focused investors: Edison International (EIX) and Viatris (VTRS) stand out with high dividend yields.
For growth-oriented investors: West Pharmaceutical Services (WST) and Teleflex (TFX) provide exposure to healthcare innovation.
For value investors: Celanese (CE) and Viatris (VTRS) offer discounted prices with strong recovery potential.
As always, investors should conduct their due diligence, considering market conditions and personal financial goals. March 2025 presents a strategic entry point for these five stocks, offering a balance of income, stability, and growth opportunities.