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Billionaire investor Warren Buffett has little exposure to the British stock market. And it really doesn’t have to be, considering the incredible investment opportunities that the American market offers today.
However, there are plenty of Buffett-type stocks in the UK’s FTSE 100 index. Here are two that I have in my portfolio that I think are worth watching right now.
A great wealth generator
First there is Right move (LSE: RMV). It operates the largest property portal in the UK.
In my opinion, Rightmove would do a lot for Buffett. He likes to invest in high-quality companies, and this company has a robust brand (and therefore a wide moat), a high return on capital (level of profitability), and an excellent long-term track record when it comes to generating wealth for shareholders.
At today’s share price, I think we have quite a lot of value to offer. And apparently I’m not the only one who holds this view. Last month, an Australian rival REA Group tried to buy a British company. Unfortunately, the two companies could not agree on a price.
Looking ahead, I expect Rightmove’s share price to rise as the company’s revenues and profits grow. Today’s valuation looks very reasonable (the future price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) is only 21), so I see a lot of room for growth. It’s worth noting that Berenberg analysts have a price target of 775p. That’s about 25% higher than the current share price.
In terms of risk, you should be aware that competition in the UK property search space is increasing. Today Rightmove competes with OnTheMarket (which has just been bought by a vast US company), Zoopla, Your Move and others.
However, I like the risk/reward proposition at current levels. In my opinion, this online company is currently undervalued.
By grace
Insurance is one of Buffett’s favorite sectors, and I like stocks in this sector right now Prudential (LSE: PRU). It is currently focusing on the rapidly growing Asian and African markets.
Currently, Buffett likes to buy stocks when they are unpopular. And this stock definitely fits here. As a result of China’s recent economic problems, the company’s share price has fallen. It’s down more than 20% over the past year.
However, I think there is potential for a rebound in the not too distant future. Right now, China is aggressively pumping stimulus into its economy. This should improve Prudential’s business conditions. In the longer term, markets in Asia and Africa – which are largely untapped when it comes to insurance and savings accounts – should provide the company with significant growth.
It is also worth mentioning that the company buys back a vast part of its shares. This should enhance earnings per share (and share price) over time.
Of course, if the Chinese economy continues to deteriorate, the share price recovery will be delayed. However, taking a long-term view (Buffett likes to hold stocks for decades), I think this stock will do well.
Currently, the P/E ratio is 9, so the stock is economical.