3 Stocks Under Rs. 100 to Watch This Week: Smart Investing Picks

From telecom to private banks, these affordable picks show a mix of momentum, stability, and growth potential
3 Stocks Under Rs. 100 to Watch This Week: Smart Investing Picks
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The Indian stock market always attracts interest from investors looking for affordable opportunities with strong upside potential. Shares trading below Rs. 100 are often seen as accessible, especially for those seeking value picks with reasonable risk. However, price alone should never be the only factor. Market capitalization, returns, valuation ratios, and profitability indicators provide deeper insight into whether a stock deserves attention. This week, three companies stand out based on their recent performance and financial data. These Stocks Under Rs. 100 come from the telecom and banking sectors, both of which play a crucial role in India’s economic growth. 

Vodafone Idea Ltd: High Risk, High Volatility Telecom Play 

Vodafone Idea Ltd operates in the Telecom Services sub-sector and remains one of the most talked-about low-priced stocks in the market. The company has a market capitalization of Rs. 1,26,111.29 crore, reflecting its large scale despite financial stress. The current close price stands at Rs. 11.64, keeping it firmly in the penny stock category. 

The valuation metrics highlight ongoing challenges. The PE ratio is -4.61, which indicates losses at the earnings level. The PB ratio is also negative at -1.79, pointing to weak net worth. Return on Equity data is not available, while Return on Capital Employed is -1.99, suggesting inefficient use of capital. 

Despite these concerns, the stock has delivered strong returns in certain periods. The 1-month return is 10.29 percent, while the 6-month return is an impressive 71.68 percent. Over a one-year period, the stock has gained 48.09 percent. These returns show that Vodafone Idea has remained highly volatile, reacting sharply to news related to funding, government support, and sector developments. 

Vodafone Idea’s business prospects depend heavily on its ability to raise capital, manage debt, and retain subscribers in a highly competitive telecom market. While the recent returns may attract short-term interest, the financial ratios suggest that the stock carries significant risk. Careful monitoring is essential when considering such a low-priced telecom stock.

IDBI Bank Ltd: Stable Banking Stock Near Rs. 100 

IDBI Bank Ltd belongs to the Private Banks sub-sector and presents a more stable profile compared to other low-priced stocks. The bank has a market capitalization of Rs. 1,07,287.47 crore, which underlines its strong presence in the banking system. The close price of Rs. 99.78 places it just under the Rs. 100 mark, making it attractive among Stocks Under Rs. 100 with relatively lower risk. 

The valuation ratios are more balanced. IDBI Bank trades at a PE ratio of 14.06, which is reasonable for a banking stock. The PB ratio stands at 1.74, reflecting moderate valuation compared to its book value. Profitability indicators also show improvement, with Return on Equity at 13.50 percent and ROCE at 10.39 percent. 

In terms of returns, the stock has seen mixed performance in the short term. The 1-month return is -4.10 percent, indicating recent consolidation or profit booking. However, the 6-month return is positive at 2.25 percent, while the 1-year return stands at 20.17 percent. These numbers suggest steady growth rather than sharp movements. 

IDBI Bank has been focusing on improving asset quality and strengthening its balance sheet. The consistent profitability ratios and reasonable valuation make it a comparatively safer choice among low-priced stocks. The banking sector’s importance in credit growth and economic expansion adds to the long-term relevance of this stock. 

IDFC First Bank Ltd: Growth-Oriented Private Bank 

IDFC First Bank Ltd is another Private Banks sub-sector stock trading comfortably below Rs. 100. The bank has a market capitalization of Rs. 70,727.37 crore and a close price of Rs. 82.29. This positions it as a mid-sized private bank with growth ambitions. 

The valuation metrics indicate higher expectations. The PE ratio is 47.46, which is significantly higher than many peers, suggesting that the market is pricing in future growth. The PB ratio is 1.85, showing a premium over book value. Profitability ratios are still developing, with Return on Equity at 4.23 percent and ROCE at 2.02 percent. 

Performance-wise, the stock has shown resilience. The 1-month return is -0.43 percent, reflecting stability in the short term. Over 6 months, the stock has delivered a strong return of 16.15 percent. The 1-year return stands at 27.92 percent, highlighting consistent upward movement. 

IDFC First Bank has been expanding its retail loan book and focusing on improving margins. While current profitability levels are modest, the improving trend in returns indicates growing confidence. The higher PE ratio suggests that expectations are already built into the price, but steady execution could support further growth. 

Final Thoughts on Affordable Market Opportunities 

Low-priced stocks can offer meaningful opportunities when supported by strong fundamentals or improving performance trends. Vodafone Idea Ltd stands out for its volatility and sharp returns, though financial stress remains a concern. IDBI Bank Ltd offers relative stability, reasonable valuation, and improving profitability. IDFC First Bank Ltd represents a growth-focused banking story with better medium-term returns but higher valuation. 

These Stocks Under Rs. 100 cover different risk profiles, from high-risk turnaround plays to stable banking options. Observing sector trends, financial ratios, and return patterns remains essential when tracking such stocks during the week. 

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