
While strong cash flow is a key indicator of stability, it doesn’t always translate to superior returns. Some cash-heavy businesses struggle with inefficient spending, slowing demand, or weak competitive positioning.
Not all companies are created equal, and StockStory is here to surface the ones with real upside. Keeping that in mind, here is one cash-producing company that excels at turning cash into shareholder value and two best left off your watchlist.
Trailing 12-Month Free Cash Flow Margin: 10.4%
Protecting the things that power our world, Atkore (NYSE:ATKR) designs and manufactures electrical safety products.
Why Do We Avoid ATKR?
Atkore’s stock price of $63.86 implies a valuation ratio of 12.4x forward P/E. If you’re considering ATKR for your portfolio, see our FREE research report to learn more.
Trailing 12-Month Free Cash Flow Margin: 6.4%
Founded in 1926, United Airlines Holdings (NASDAQ:UAL) operates a global airline network, providing passenger and cargo air transportation services across domestic and international routes.
Why Is UAL Risky?
United Airlines is trading at $110.40 per share, or 9.3x forward P/E. Read our free research report to see why you should think twice about including UAL in your portfolio.
Trailing 12-Month Free Cash Flow Margin: 6.1%
Integrating power outlets into many Boeing aircraft, Astronics (NASDAQ:ATRO) is a provider of technologies and services to the global aerospace, defense, and electronics industries.
Why Are We Backing ATRO?
At $50.78 per share, Astronics trades at 22.6x forward P/E. Is now a good time to buy? Find out in our full research report, it’s free for active Edge members.
If your portfolio success hinges on just 4 stocks, your wealth is built on fragile ground. You have a small window to secure high-quality assets before the market widens and these prices disappear.
Don’t wait for the next volatility shock. Check out our Top 6 Stocks for this week. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 244% over the last five years (as of June 30, 2025).
Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,326% between June 2020 and June 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-small-cap company Exlservice (+354% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today for free. Find your next big winner with StockStory today. Find your next big winner with StockStory today.