Despite their extreme risk, penny stocks continue to be a favourite destination for capital among British investors. These tiny enterprises rarely deliver on their promises. But it only takes one to succeed for even a small investment to deliver explosive returns.
In 2024, the London Stock Exchange has no shortage of such shares. Following the recent market correction, valuations — especially among small-cap companies — have tumbled. But while this is undoubtedly frustrating, it may have also created buying opportunities among the companies that show plenty of potential.
With that in mind, let’s explore some of the more interesting propositions in penny share territory that might be worth watching closely.
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A rising helium supplier
Shares of Helium One Global (LSE:HE1) have garnered a lot of attention from investors in recent years. And for good reason. The firm is engaged in helium gas exploration projects in Tanzania. And while it has yet to extract anything from the ground, the latest test results from its Itumbula West-1 site suggest that may change in the coming years.
In fact, the group could be sitting on top of one of the world’s most valuable helium sites. While the use cases for the gas are fairly niche, the lack of supply has made it valuable, especially within the healthcare and aerospace industries. An extended well test is planned for the third quarter of 2024. And if this delivers further positive results, Helium One will be another step closer to potentially becoming a critical global supplier of helium gas.
Of course, with all eyes on this test, a negative result or even a delay could be disastrous for the share price. So, investors will have to watch and analyse progress closely.
A rebound in homebuilding?
Higher interest rates slowing activity among the UK’s leading homebuilders and contractors have created several headwinds for HSS Hire (LSE:HSS). The tool & equipment rental enterprise has seen its growth and operating profits flatten, sending the penny stock in the wrong direction.
However, with mortgage rates and property prices falling, there are some early indicators of home buying demand slowly beginning to rise again. This could spark construction back into action. And with it, provide a far more favourable macroeconomic environment for HSS to get back on track.
While the group’s indebted balance sheet does limit its financial flexibility, leverage has been slowly getting more manageable. That’s why I think investors should be keeping an eye on this business throughout 2024.
Exploring nanomaterials
On the more cutting-edge side of things, Nanoco Group (LSE:NANO) has been making waves. The group specialises in cadmium-free quantum dots. These are tiny particles used in a variety of specialist industries, such as semiconductors and medical imaging.
Apart from winning a major legal battle against Samsung, the group has recently secured its first commercial contract as well as signing two joint development agreements — one of which is with STMicroelectronics. This has flooded the balance sheet with cash. And while at least £33m is earmarked to be returned to shareholders, Nanoco seems to be on track.
Of course, transitioning from a research- to a production-based business comes with its own set of challenges. But if the firm continues to hit impressive milestones, it may warrant a closer look from potential investors.
