Despite a challenging year for green technology stocks, Samsung SDI and First Solar offer potential value for investors.
Green technology stocks, which encompass environmentally friendly technologies and clean energy solutions, have faced a difficult year in the market. Despite significant government investments in green energy, stock prices for companies in this sector have fallen globally due to higher costs, interest rates, equipment failures, and unfavorable weather conditions. However, amidst the underperformance, two stocks within the Morningstar Global Emerging Green Technologies Select 30 Index have caught the attention of investors as potential value plays. Samsung SDI, a major supplier of lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, and First Solar, a leading manufacturer of thin-film solar panels, offer attractive valuations and growth prospects.
Green Tech Stocks and their Underperformance
Green technology, also known as clean technology, refers to technologies that are environmentally friendly in their production process or supply chain. This includes clean energy production, utilization of alternative fuels, and technologies that are less harmful to the environment compared to traditional fossil fuels. Despite the global push towards sustainable solutions, green tech stocks have struggled to deliver positive returns this year. The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF, the largest clean energy technology fund, is down 28.5% year-to-date. The Morningstar Global Emerging Green Technologies Select 30 Index, which comprises companies generating at least a quarter of their revenue from green technologies, has lagged behind broader market indices.
Two Cheap Green Tech Stocks
Within the Morningstar Global Emerging Green Technologies Select 30 Index, two stocks have emerged as potentially undervalued opportunities. Samsung SDI, a Korean company specializing in lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, and First Solar, a leading manufacturer of thin-film solar panels, offer attractive valuations and growth potential.
Samsung SDI, with a Morningstar Rating of 4 stars, is a major supplier of batteries for various industries, including automotive. The company’s expertise in electronic materials has allowed it to supply components to Samsung Electronics, the world’s largest consumer electronics and memory manufacturer. Despite its solid position in the market, Samsung SDI is trading at a 37% discount to Morningstar’s fair value estimate, making it an appealing investment opportunity.
First Solar, also with a Morningstar Rating of 4 stars, is a global leader in thin-film solar panel technology. The company’s focus on manufacturing solar panels has positioned it to benefit from the increasing demand for renewable energy solutions. First Solar is trading at a 21% discount to Morningstar’s fair value estimate, presenting an attractive entry point for investors.
Potential for Growth and Market Opportunities
Samsung SDI is expected to experience revenue growth driven by the increasing demand for rechargeable batteries, particularly in the automotive sector. As environmental regulations push for a higher proportion of electric and hybrid vehicles, Samsung SDI’s expertise in battery technology positions it to capture market opportunities. Additionally, the rollout of 5G technology is expected to drive revenue growth for small lithium-ion batteries and electronic materials.
First Solar, on the other hand, is poised to benefit from its leading position in the U.S. market and the expected expansion of its manufacturing capacity. The company’s focus on thin-film solar panel technology positions it well for future advancements in solar panel technology, such as tandem cells. With the support of domestic manufacturing credits and its strong market position, First Solar is expected to deliver strong profits in the coming years.
Evaluating Fair Values and Potential Bargains
As green technology stocks continue to face challenges in the market, it becomes crucial for investors to evaluate fair values and identify potential bargains. Samsung SDI and First Solar, with their attractive valuations and growth prospects, present opportunities for investors seeking exposure to the green technology sector. However, it is important to conduct thorough research and consider the risks associated with investing in individual stocks.
Conclusion:
Despite the underperformance of green technology stocks this year, Samsung SDI and First Solar stand out as potential value plays. Both companies offer attractive valuations and growth prospects within their respective areas of expertise. As the demand for green technologies and renewable energy solutions continues to grow, these stocks present opportunities for investors looking to capitalize on the long-term potential of the green technology sector. However, investors should exercise caution and conduct thorough research before making investment decisions in this volatile market.
