For investors seeking long-term opportunities, European value stocks present a compelling case. They potentially offer strong medium-term returns due to their attractive valuations. To achieve optimal outcomes in this space, we believe a comprehensive approach that avoids value traps and focuses on well-rewarded risks is critical. Let’s take a closer look.
European value stocks seem well-positioned for potential gains. Historically, these stocks have outperformed growth stocks in Europe by 2.4% annually over the past 34 years. The fundamentals and profitability of European stocks remain strong, and the current macro environment supports value stocks. Over the next five to 10 years, key market drivers will include growth restraints — forcing markets to refocus on fundamentals, central bank concessions and inflation adaptation. Elevated inflation and interest rates will provide tailwinds in the short term. The fundamentals of European and value stocks look promising with attractive valuations and improving earnings growth. Interestingly, European value stocks are trading at a 20% discount to their historical average, a discount not seen often before. Our computations show that this might lead to an additional 5% per year in performance in future years — on top of their high 3%+ dividend yields — as the discount normalizes.
Success in European value investing requires a diversified approach that focuses on well-rewarded risks. To this end, we use a multidimensional, sector-specific approach to holistically assess a company’s value and select the best-priced value stocks. Evaluating a company’s business model and financial health through quality factors, along with using momentum factors to assess positive market sentiment, aids in the careful selection of stocks and avoids value traps and falling knives. At Northern Trust, we believe that risk-efficiency is crucial for investment success. It is instrumental to assess all dimension of risks, from sectorial, to stock-specific and carbon-related risks, and manage risk carefully to optimize the return-risk trade-off.
Ultimately, European value stocks offer a compelling short- and long-term investment opportunity, driven by attractive valuations and supportive market conditions. By adopting a diversified, holistic, and risk-aware value approach investors can navigate the complexities of this market and leverage its potential.
Source: Kenneth French Data Library, Northern Trust Asset Management.
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