Investing in stocks can be a great way to build wealth and diversify one’s portfolio. However, there are differences in the risk associated with investing in small-cap and large-cap stocks on the Singapore stock market. Small-cap stocks tend to have higher price volatility than large-cap stocks, which means they can show greater returns or losses over short periods. Moreover, small-cap companies often lack the institutional ownership and analyst coverage that comes with larger-cap companies. This article will discuss how small-cap stocks differ from large-cap stocks in terms of risk.
Volatility
Small-cap stocks are typically much more volatile than large-cap stocks due to their smaller size, which means that even a small transaction can cause the stock price to swing significantly. As such, small-cap stocks can show greater returns or losses over shorter periods than larger-cap stocks. Additionally, small-cap stocks tend to have lower liquidity than large-cap stocks, making them more challenging to buy and sell at the desired price.
Analyst coverage
Another factor contributing to the risk of small-cap stocks is their lack of analyst coverage. Large-cap companies often attract significant attention from analysts, who regularly update their reports and maintain close contact with company management. It gives investors detailed insights into a company’s performance and potential future growth prospects. On the other hand, small-cap companies typically lack institutional ownership and analyst coverage, which can leave investors in the dark about a stock’s actual value.
Institutional ownership
Large-cap companies have strong institutional ownership and analyst coverage. There tends to be less volatility in the prices of these stocks, as large investors and analysts usually track them closely and make trading decisions based on publicly available information. In contrast, small-cap companies often lack institutional ownership and analyst coverage, meaning their stock prices may be subject to more significant swings without sufficient oversight.
Size of companies
Small-cap stocks are issued by smaller, less established companies that may lack the financial resources and expertise of larger, more established firms. As such, these companies are often perceived as riskier investments than large-cap stocks. Additionally, small-cap stocks may also have reduced access to capital markets compared to their larger counterparts, making it more difficult for them to grow and develop.
Risk of bankruptcy
Small-cap companies tend to have a higher risk of bankruptcy due to their limited resources and exposure to the market. It is particularly true for start-ups or young companies trying to break into a new industry or introduce a new product. If any of these companies fail, the investors who buy into the stock could suffer substantial losses. Additionally, the bankruptcy of a small-cap company could have more severe implications for the broader economy than the failure of a large-cap company.
What other differences are there between small and large-cap stocks?
Now that you know the differences between the risks of the two, it’s essential to consider the other factors that can influence your investment decisions regarding small and large-cap stocks.
Valuation
Small-cap stocks are generally valued at lower prices than large-cap stocks because they tend to have less analyst coverage and institutional ownership, which leaves them more exposed to market forces. As such, small-cap companies may be undervalued relative to their larger counterparts, creating opportunities for investors who can identify these potential bargains.
Industry focus
Small-cap companies tend to be focused on specific industries or sectors, while large-cap companies often operate across multiple sectors. Therefore, small-cap stocks may be more sensitive to changes in a particular industry. At the same time, large caps may not experience swings as significantly when one sector experiences a downturn or an upturn.
Trading volume
Small-cap stocks typically have lower trading volumes than large-cap stocks, meaning they are often more susceptible to price manipulation and market volatility, as fewer buyers and sellers are involved in the process. Additionally, it can be difficult for investors to buy or sell small-cap stocks at their desired prices due to the limited liquidity of these securities.
Growth potential
Small-cap stocks offer more significant growth potential than large-cap due to their focus on specific industries or sectors. As such, they can allow investors to benefit from a company’s early success before its stock is fully priced into the market. However, this also means that small-cap stocks have an increased risk of loss if the company fails to live up to expectations.