Stock market crash 2020: a once-in-a-lifetime chance to buy cheap stocks?

Buying cheap stocks after the 2020 stock market crash could represent a rare opportunity to make strong gains in a recovery, in my view.

ladder leading up to open window representing buying opportunity for asx shares

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The 2020 stock market crash has left a wide range of cheap stocks across many sectors. Although they could yet fall further in the short run due to ongoing political and economic risks, they may deliver strong recoveries in the long run.

Such opportunities have historically been relatively rare. And, with major stimulus programs in place across many economies and the prospect of fewer lockdown restrictions in 2021, the outlook for high-quality companies that trade at low prices could be relatively positive.

The 2020 stock market crash: a rare event?

This year's stock market crash was a relatively rare event. In fact, many of today's cheap stocks have not traded at their current prices in over a decade. The last time they did was in the global financial crisis, when major indexes such as the S&P 500 Index (INDEXSP: .INX) and FTSE 100 Index (FTSE: UKX) collapsed in value.

Prior to the global financial crisis, major bear markets have been relatively uncommon. For example, the dot com crisis included vast share price falls across global stock markets. And, while there have been many corrections and downturns in the past 20 years, this year's stock market fall was among the most severe.

As such, an investor is likely to experience only a relatively small number of declines that are similar in size and severity to the 2020 stock market crash during their lifetime. Taking advantage of the cheap stocks they provide may mean greater scope for capital appreciation in the long run.

A unique opportunity to buy cheap stocks?

The 2020 stock market crash could be a unique opportunity to buy cheap stocks. That's not because it has left many companies trading at low prices. Rather, the path to growth could be stronger and faster than has been the case following previous bear markets.

For example, investor sentiment could improve significantly if it becomes clear that the coronavirus pandemic will be successfully overcome. Furthermore, the amount of fiscal and monetary policy stimulus that has been announced may have a positive impact on asset prices over the coming years. As was the case after the global financial crisis, a loose monetary policy can have a very positive impact on global stock markets.

Of course, there is no guarantee of a fast-paced growth period for cheap shares after the stock market crash. A second downturn could take place in the short run. However, vast amounts of stimulus arguably represent a faster and stronger response to a market decline than has been the case in some previous downturns.

Focusing on high-quality cheap stocks

The stock market crash has highlighted the importance of buying high-quality companies. Therefore, rather than simply buying the cheapest stocks around, it may be prudent to consider the financial standing and competitive advantage of a business prior to purchase. This could lead to higher returns in a likely stock market recovery.

Motley Fool contributor Peter Stephens has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Share Market News

Happy man working on his laptop.
Share Market News

5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday

Another positive session is expected for Aussie investors today.

Read more »

A beautiful ocean vista is shown with a woman whose back is to the camera holding her arms up in triumph as she stands at the top of a rock feeling thrilled that ASX 200 shares are reaching multi-year high prices today
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

ASX investors were in the mood for buying this Tuesday.

Read more »

Woman checking out new iPads.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

Macquarie reveals top ASX stock picks in the consumer sectors

The top broker has revealed its favourite shares in the consumer discretionary and consumer staples sectors.

Read more »

A young woman holds an open book over her head with a round mouthed expression as if to say oops as she looks at her computer screen in a home office setting with a plant on the desk and shelves of books in the background.
Share Market News

Why ANZ, Coles, Lynas, and Northern Star shares are falling today

These shares are falling despite the market charging higher. But why?

Read more »

I young woman takes a bite out of a burrito n the street outside a Mexican fast-food establishment.
Opinions

Time to cash in your gains? Brokers say sell on these 3 ASX 200 shares

Experts say these stocks are overvalued and it may be time to take some profits off the table.

Read more »

Miner looking at a tablet.
Share Gainers

Up 93% since April should I still buy Boss Energy shares now?

Boss Energy shares, the most shorted on the ASX, have almost doubled in value in one month. Now what?

Read more »

Five young people sit in a row having fun and interacting with their mobile phones.
Share Gainers

Why BHP, Catapult, Life360, and Ridley shares are charging higher today

These shares are having a strong session. But why?

Read more »

Man pointing at a blue rising share price graph.
Technology Shares

Why are WiseTech shares up 7% today?

Investors can't get enough of WiseTech stock right now.

Read more »