Small Cap Stocks vs. Micro Cap Stocks
Small cap stocks and micro cap stocks are sometimes confused with each other and rightfully so. We usually classify small and micro near the same amounts and this is no different. The ranking of small cap stocks and micro cap stocks are a little different from each stock broker house. For the most part, the small cap and micro cap rankings are used by mutual funds to determine what stocks to buy for their portfolio.
Small Cap Stock and Micro Cap Stock Valuations
To be classified as a small cap or micro stock we need to look at what each companies market valuation is. This is done by multiplying the stock price and the number of outstanding shares. Take that number and put it into one of the categories below.
Small Cap Stocks – $300 million to $2 billion
Micro Cap Stocks – $50 million to $300 million
In the grand scheme of things you can see how quickly a company can go from having a micro cap stock to a small cap stock.
Invest In Small Cap Stocks Or Micro Cap Stocks?
As with any investment, you need to do your research ahead of time. Micro cap stocks are usually companies who are either still in start up mode or their business model does not have over night growth. Small cap stocks are companies that are in an industry that needs a lot of capital to do their business or are past the start up phase and are moving onto being a profitable business. The good news is that micro cap stocks and small cap stocks typically have low stock prices which makes it easier for somebody to buy a good amount of shares in the hope of a good return.
In Review: Small Cap Stocks vs Micro Cap Stocks
The only real difference between small cap stocks and micro cap stocks is how the brokers decide to classify them. Yes, there is a difference of $250 million in market capitalization but you will have to look at what industry that company is in to get a true understanding of its value. Both small cap stocks and micro cap stocks are usually a good place to start investing as their stock prices are usually lower making it easier to get in and buy on the hope of making a profit.