How to Find Small-Cap Stocks With A Stock Screener?

6 minutes read

To find small-cap stocks using a stock screener, you can start by setting the market capitalization criteria to filter for companies with a market cap below a certain threshold. Typically, small-cap stocks are considered to have a market cap between $300 million and $2 billion. You can also narrow down your search by setting other criteria such as revenue growth, earnings per share, and liquidity ratios to identify potential candidates. Additionally, consider using fundamental analysis tools to assess the financial health and growth potential of these small-cap stocks before making any investment decisions.


How to assess the management team of small-cap stocks found on a stock screener?

Assessing the management team of small-cap stocks found on a stock screener is an important step in evaluating the investment potential of these companies. Here are some tips on how to assess the management team of small-cap stocks:

  1. Review their bios: Start by researching the backgrounds and experience of the key executives and board members of the company. Look for their education, previous work experience, and any notable achievements. This information can give you insight into their qualifications and expertise in managing the company.
  2. Analyze their track record: Look at how the management team has performed in the past, both in their current roles and in previous positions. Review the company's financial performance, growth trajectory, and any major milestones achieved under their leadership. A strong track record can be a positive indicator of their ability to drive success for the company.
  3. Consider their strategic vision: Evaluate the management team's strategic vision for the company and their plans for growth and expansion. Look for clear and realistic goals, as well as a sound strategy for achieving them. A strong and well-thought-out strategic vision can indicate that the management team has a clear understanding of the market and how to position the company for success.
  4. Assess their communication skills: Evaluate the management team's communication skills, both internally and externally. Look for transparency, openness, and effective communication with shareholders, analysts, and other stakeholders. Clear and timely communication can help build trust and confidence in the management team.
  5. Check for insider ownership: Look at the level of insider ownership in the company, as this can be a good indicator of how aligned the management team is with shareholders' interests. High insider ownership can indicate that the management team has a personal stake in the company's success and is motivated to create value for shareholders.


By following these tips, you can assess the management team of small-cap stocks found on a stock screener and make informed investment decisions based on their capabilities and potential for success.


What are some red flags to watch out for when screening for small-cap stocks on a stock screener?

  1. Low trading volume: Small-cap stocks with very low trading volume can be illiquid and difficult to buy or sell, resulting in wide bid-ask spreads and potential price manipulation.
  2. High debt levels: Small-cap companies with high levels of debt may be at risk of defaulting on their obligations, which can hinder their ability to grow and succeed.
  3. Lack of profitability: Companies that are consistently posting losses or have erratic earnings can be risky investments, as they may struggle to generate sustainable revenue and profits.
  4. Insider selling: If insiders of a small-cap company are selling off their shares in large quantities, it could be a sign that they lack confidence in the company's future prospects.
  5. Limited analyst coverage: Small-cap stocks that are not covered by many analysts may lack visibility and institutional interest, making it harder for investors to gauge their true value and potential risks.
  6. Lack of transparency: Companies with limited or unclear financial reporting practices should be approached with caution, as they may be hiding unfavorable information or engaging in unethical behavior.
  7. Past regulatory issues: Small-cap companies that have a history of regulatory violations or legal troubles may face ongoing challenges that could impact their future performance and stock price.
  8. Extreme volatility: Small-cap stocks that exhibit extreme price fluctuations or volatility without any clear catalysts may be driven by speculative trading or market manipulation, rather than underlying business fundamentals.


How to identify trends in small-cap stocks using a stock screener?

Identifying trends in small-cap stocks using a stock screener involves carefully analyzing various metrics and indicators to spot patterns and movements in the market. Here are some steps to do so:

  1. Choose the right stock screener: Select a stock screener that allows you to filter and analyze small-cap stocks specifically. Look for screeners that offer customizable filters and provide data on key metrics such as market cap, volume, price performance, and fundamentals.
  2. Set your criteria: Define the criteria you want to use to identify trends in small-cap stocks. This can include factors such as market cap size, volume levels, price momentum, earnings growth, valuation metrics, and technical indicators.
  3. Look for patterns: Use the stock screener to identify stocks that are exhibiting certain patterns or movements, such as upward or downward trends, price breakouts, or consistent price momentum.
  4. Analyze key metrics: Pay attention to key metrics such as volume, price performance, relative strength, moving averages, and trading signals to get a more comprehensive view of the stock's trend.
  5. Monitor market news and events: Keep track of market news and events that could impact small-cap stocks, such as earnings reports, company announcements, industry trends, and economic indicators.
  6. Track performance over time: Continuously monitor the performance of the small-cap stocks you are interested in to see how they are trending over time. Look for sustained trends and monitor any potential changes in direction.
  7. Use technical analysis tools: Utilize technical analysis tools, such as trend lines, moving averages, and chart patterns, to help identify and confirm trends in small-cap stocks.


By following these steps and utilizing a stock screener effectively, you can identify trends in small-cap stocks and make informed investment decisions based on the data and information you gather. Remember to always conduct thorough research and due diligence before making any investment decisions.


What criteria should I use to find small-cap stocks using a stock screener?

  1. Market capitalization: Small-cap stocks generally have a market capitalization between $300 million and $2 billion. Use the market capitalization filter to target stocks within this range.
  2. Revenue and earnings growth: Look for small-cap stocks that have demonstrated strong revenue and earnings growth in recent quarters or years. You can use filters for revenue and earnings growth rates to identify companies with strong growth potential.
  3. Valuation metrics: Consider valuation metrics such as price-to-earnings ratio (P/E ratio), price-to-sales ratio (P/S ratio), and price-to-book ratio (P/B ratio) to determine if the stock is trading at an attractive valuation compared to its peers.
  4. Profitability: Look for small-cap stocks that are consistently profitable or showing signs of improving profitability. You can use filters for metrics such as return on equity (ROE) and operating margin to assess a company's profitability.
  5. Analyst recommendations: Pay attention to analyst recommendations and price targets for small-cap stocks. A consensus buy rating or bullish price targets from analysts can indicate positive sentiment towards a stock.
  6. Industry trends: Consider the industry or sector in which the small-cap stock operates and evaluate its growth prospects. Look for companies in industries with strong growth potential or positive industry trends.
  7. Liquidity: Ensure that the small-cap stocks you're considering have sufficient trading volume and liquidity to allow for easy buying and selling of shares.
  8. Risk factors: Assess the potential risks associated with investing in small-cap stocks, such as volatility, liquidity risk, and company-specific risks. Conduct thorough research and due diligence before making any investment decisions.


By using these criteria in a stock screener, you can narrow down the universe of small-cap stocks to find potential investment opportunities that meet your investment objectives and risk tolerance.

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