| Valuation method | Value, $ | Upside, % |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | 49.78 | 2 |
| Intrinsic value (DCF) | 30.89 | -37 |
| Graham-Dodd Method | 67.41 | 38 |
| Graham Formula | 181.35 | 272 |
Source Capital, Inc. (NYSE: SOR) is a closed-end balanced fund managed by First Pacific Advisors, LLC, specializing in value-oriented investments across small to mid-cap U.S. equities. Established in 1968, the fund employs a disciplined bottom-up stock selection strategy, targeting companies with strong liquidity, conservative balance sheets, and sustainable above-average returns on capital. Benchmarking against the Russell 2500, S&P 500, and Nasdaq Composite indices, SOR provides investors with diversified exposure to high-quality growth and income opportunities. With a market cap of approximately $346 million, the fund operates in the competitive asset management sector, offering a unique blend of capital appreciation and dividend income. Its focus on undervalued small and mid-cap stocks positions it as a compelling option for investors seeking long-term value in the financial services industry.
Source Capital, Inc. presents an attractive investment proposition for value-focused investors, given its disciplined fundamental approach and consistent performance relative to its benchmarks. The fund’s low beta (0.576) suggests lower volatility compared to the broader market, appealing to risk-averse investors. With a strong net income of $39.2 million and a diluted EPS of $4.78, SOR demonstrates robust profitability. The dividend yield, supported by a $2.50 per share payout, adds income appeal. However, its small asset base (~$346M market cap) may limit scalability, and its reliance on small/mid-cap stocks exposes it to sector-specific risks. The absence of debt and solid cash management (though cash reserves are minimal) further underscores financial stability. Investors should weigh its value-oriented strategy against potential liquidity constraints inherent in small-cap investing.
Source Capital, Inc. differentiates itself through its concentrated focus on small to mid-cap value stocks, a niche often overlooked by larger asset managers. Its competitive advantage lies in First Pacific Advisors’ deep fundamental research capabilities and long-term investment horizon, which align with the fund’s strategy of identifying undervalued companies with durable competitive advantages. Unlike passive ETFs or broad-based mutual funds, SOR’s active management allows for tactical positioning in mispriced opportunities, though this also introduces manager risk. The fund’s performance is closely tied to the Russell 2500, reflecting its small/mid-cap bias, but its balanced approach (via equity and income holdings) mitigates some sector concentration risks. Competitors often prioritize scale or growth-oriented strategies, whereas SOR’s adherence to value principles may lag in bull markets but offers resilience in downturns. Its zero-debt structure and income generation via dividends further distinguish it from leveraged or purely growth-focused peers.