In a market dominated by headlines about tech giants and blue-chip favorites, lesser-known stocks often fly under the radar.
Yet, these “unpopular” stocks can offer significant upside—if you know where to look. As we navigate the second half of 2025, here are five underrated U.S. stocks that could surprise investors with solid performance.
1. Gen Digital Inc. (GEN)
Industry: Cybersecurity
Current Price (as of June 2025): ~$22
Why It’s Unpopular: Overshadowed by larger cybersecurity players like CrowdStrike and Palo Alto Networks.
Why You Should Watch It:
Gen Digital (formerly NortonLifeLock) may not make flashy headlines, but its recent acquisition of Avast has significantly strengthened its consumer cybersecurity portfolio.
With the growing importance of online privacy tools and identity theft protection, GEN is positioned for a rebound. The stock offers strong recurring revenue, a modest valuation, and a generous dividend yield around 2.5%.
2. Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (CALM)
Industry: Agribusiness (Egg production)
Current Price: ~$46
Why It’s Unpopular: Considered a boring, defensive stock.
Why You Should Watch It:
While not glamorous, Cal-Maine is the largest producer and distributor of fresh shell eggs in the U.S.
With egg prices stabilizing and demand remaining consistent, CALM has shown resilience. Additionally, with rising interest in cage-free and organic eggs, the company’s long-term outlook is quietly improving. It also boasts a strong balance sheet and no long-term debt.
3. A.O. Smith Corporation (AOS)
Industry: Industrial Manufacturing (Water heaters & boilers)
Current Price: ~$75
Why It’s Unpopular: Perceived as a low-growth utility supplier.
Why You Should Watch It:
As sustainable building trends gain traction, A.O. Smith’s energy-efficient heating and water systems are seeing increased demand, especially in commercial construction.
The company is also expanding its footprint in emerging markets, including India and China. Its consistent dividend growth and solid cash flow make it a reliable pick for long-term investors.
4. Lancaster Colony Corporation (LANC)
Industry: Packaged Foods
Current Price: ~$180
Why It’s Unpopular: Lacks tech-driven growth and brand awareness.
Why You Should Watch It:
Lancaster Colony owns brands like Marzetti dressings and Sister Schubert’s rolls—household names in U.S. kitchens.
Despite being in a mature industry, it has steadily increased dividends for nearly 60 years. As consumer habits tilt toward premium and convenience foods, LANC stands to benefit from both retail and foodservice demand.
5. Skechers U.S.A., Inc. (SKX)
Industry: Apparel & Footwear
Current Price: ~$72
Why It’s Unpopular: Lives in the shadow of Nike and Adidas.
Why You Should Watch It:
Skechers continues to expand globally, especially in Latin America and Asia. It’s investing heavily in direct-to-consumer channels and brand collaborations.
Despite a less flashy image, Skechers has solid margins, low debt, and a surprisingly strong earnings trajectory. For investors looking for value in the retail space, SKX could be a sleeper hit.
Investors often flock to trendy, high-volume stocks, but true growth opportunities can lie in overlooked corners of the market.
These five unpopular stocks offer a mix of stability, undervaluation, and future potential.
While none are without risk, they deserve a closer look from anyone aiming to diversify their portfolio in 2025.
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