Why the Best Stocks Are Harder to Find in Today’s Market

  • Low interest rates and rise of index funds have led to fewer quality stocks available for investment
  • Small-cap and value investing may offer better opportunities in current market conditions
  • Foreign small-caps, particularly European ones, are poised for outperformance

Years of low interest rates and the rise of index funds have led to a shrinking number of quality stocks available for investors. Small-cap and value investing may offer better opportunities in current market conditions, with foreign small-caps, particularly European ones, poised for outperformance.

Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides a well-researched and informative analysis on the decline in the number of listed U.S. companies and its impact on small stocks, with relevant examples and expert opinions. It also offers suggestions for investors to consider when choosing index funds or expanding their investment options beyond U.S. borders.
Noise Level: 6
Noise Justification: The article provides some relevant information about the decline in the number of listed U.S. companies and the impact of low interest rates on small stocks, but it also contains some irrelevant details such as discussing personal investing strategies and anecdotal evidence without strong supporting data or examples.
Public Companies: Nvidia (not available), Microsoft (not available), Apple (not available)
Private Companies: Palm Valley Capital Management
Key People: Eric Cinnamond (co-founder of Palm Valley Capital Management)


Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: U.S. stocks and index funds
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the impact of low interest rates on the stock market, specifically focusing on the decline in the number of listed companies and the shift towards large-cap stocks. It also mentions the potential for small-cap opportunities and value investing as a strategy for investors.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no extreme event mentioned in the article.·

Reported publicly: www.wsj.com