1.Novabay Pharmaceuticals Inc
NBY (AMEX)
NovaBay Pharmaceuticals Inc (NBY) stands out as a top-rated investment, boasting a remarkable one-year return of 1669.74% and a dividend yield of 62.5%. This strong performance is supported by buy signals from both short and long-term moving averages, indicating a positive outlook for the stock. With consistent analyst support, including a Buy rating from Ascendiant Capital, NBY is ideal for investors seeking high returns and reliable income streams.
Pros:
- Best-performing small-cap stock
- Strong product pipeline
Cons:
- High volatility risk
- Significant 5-year decline
2.FiEE Inc
FIEE (NASDAQ)
FiEE Inc (FIEE) has delivered an impressive one-year return of 612.36%, marking it as a strong contender on major U.S. exchanges. With a focus on financial health and robust performance, analysts at Northland Capital Markets maintain an "Outperform" rating, while B. Riley Securities rates it as a "Buy." Despite a challenging five-year return of -96.23%, the company's recent trajectory showcases its potential for recovery and growth.
Pros:
- Strong one-year return
- Innovative IoT security platform
Cons:
- High beta indicating volatility
- Low market cap
3.LiveRamp
RAMP (NYSE)
LiveRamp (RAMP) presents an appealing investment opportunity with a projected EPS growth of 30.59%. Despite a recent price change of 2.16%, the stock has faced challenges, reflected in a 1-year return of -5.11% and a steep 5-year return of -66.93%. With analysts offering a consensus rating of "Hold" and a median price target of $53.00, investors may find value in its potential to outperform the market over the next 12 months.
Pros:
- Strong chance to outperform the market
- Diverse industry applications
Cons:
- Negative one-year return
- High volatility risk
4.Oncology Institute Inc
TOI (NASDAQ)
Oncology Institute Inc (TOI) has delivered an impressive one-year return of 1135.16%, making it a standout performer in the market. However, investors should be cautious as the company’s five-year return is notably negative at -64.48%, raising questions about its long-term growth prospects. Analysts maintain a median price target of $5.00, suggesting a potential upside, but with projected revenue growth stagnating, TOI's future remains uncertain.
Pros:
- Strong one-year return
- Consensus rating of Strong Buy
Cons:
- Stagnating revenue growth
- Negative outlook for financial performance
5.AXT Inc
AXTI (NASDAQ)
AXT Inc (AXTI) stands out as a small-cap stock, boasting an impressive one-year return of 1006.47%, making it the fifth-best performer in its category. Analysts currently have a mixed view, with a consensus rating of "Hold," but varying price targets ranging from $7.00 to $26.00 indicate potential volatility. For investors considering growth, AXT's recent technical signals suggest a positive trend starting in late 2025, with expectations of a 143.02% price change.
Pros:
- Strong one-year return
- Qualifying small-cap stock
Cons:
- High beta indicating volatility
- Consensus rating of Hold
6.Array Technologies
ARRY (NASDAQ)
Array Technologies (ARRY) is showing promising potential with a projected EPS growth of 44.62% and sales growth of 18.38%. Despite a significant 5-year return decline of 80.38%, analysts maintain a median 12-month price target of $10.00, with a range between $9.00 and $15.00, reflecting a cautiously optimistic outlook.
Pros:
- Strong projected EPS growth
- Sales growth potential
Cons:
- Significant 5-year decline
- Low rating of D+
7.Hycroft Mining Holding Corporation
HYMC (NASDAQ)
Hycroft Mining Holding Corporation (HYMC) has achieved an impressive one-year return of 1525.62%, positioning it as a notable player in the market, though caution is advised for potential investors. Analysts have recently downgraded their ratings, reflecting concerns about HYMC’s financial stability and history of restructuring, which could impact its growth prospects. Despite its remarkable short-term performance, the stock trades at a high price-to-book ratio of 41.6x, suggesting that investors should weigh these valuation concerns against its recent gains.
Pros:
- Strong one-year return
- Market cap under $10 billion
Cons:
- History of financial strain
- High valuation compared to peers
8.CION Investment Corporation
CION (NYSE)
CION Investment Corporation stands out as a top Zacks pick, currently trading at a low forward PE of 6.63. With a substantial dividend yield of 14.35%, it may appeal to value investors seeking consistent income despite its recent one-year return of -13.36%. Analysts have a positive outlook, setting a 12-month price target between $11.50 and $13.00, reflecting confidence in CION's financial stability and growth prospects.
Pros:
- Strong value score for investors
- Potential to outperform the market
Cons:
- Stagnating revenue growth
- High volatility risk
Final Words
As you explore investment opportunities this January, consider the potential of small-cap stocks like CION Investment Corporation. Take time to compare these options and conduct your own research to make informed decisions that align with your financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
CION Investment Corporation, trading under the ticker CION on the NYSE, is a business development company that specializes in investments in senior secured loans, equity interests, and corporate bonds in middle-market companies. It primarily targets industries such as healthcare, technology, and consumer services, and prefers to invest between $5 million and $50 million in companies.
CION Investment Corporation offers a significant dividend yield of approximately 14.35%. The next dividend payment is expected to be $0.10, reflecting its commitment to shareholder returns.
CION Investment Corporation has faced some challenges recently, with a year-to-date return of -1.34% and a 1-year return of -13.36%. However, it has had a 3-month return of 5.15%, indicating some short-term positive movement.
Investing in small-cap stocks like CION can involve higher volatility compared to larger companies, as they may be more susceptible to market fluctuations and economic downturns. Additionally, small-cap companies often have less established business models and may face liquidity risks.
To evaluate the performance of small-cap stocks, investors should consider metrics such as price-to-earnings ratios, dividend yields, and historical return data. Additionally, analyzing market trends and sector performance can provide insights into potential growth opportunities.
When choosing small-cap stocks, look for companies with strong fundamentals, growth potential, and a solid business model. It's also beneficial to assess their financial health, market position, and industry trends to make informed investment decisions.


