Key Takeaways
- Cheap stocks under $1, or penny stocks, offer high growth potential but come with significant risks due to volatility and low liquidity.
- Key factors for choosing promising penny stocks include financial health, market trends, trading volume, and analyst ratings.
- Stocks like Immunic (IMUX), Ur-Energy (URG), Inuvo (INUV), i-80 Gold (IAUX), Biodesix (BDSX), and Pixelworks (PXLW) show strong potential based on analyst support and industry developments.
- Successful penny stock investing requires thorough research, use of analytical tools like Intellectia AI, and staying updated on market news.
Introduction
Are you searching for investment opportunities that fit a tight budget but could yield impressive returns? Penny stocks, or cheap stocks under $1, might be your answer. These low-priced shares from small companies can offer significant growth potential, but they come with higher risks due to their volatility and limited transparency.
By understanding what these stocks are, why they’re appealing, and how to select the best ones, you can navigate this exciting market with confidence. Here, we’ll explore the world of penny stocks, highlight top picks for 2025, and share expert tips to help you succeed.
What Are Cheap Stocks Under $1 Dollar
Penny stocks, often defined as stocks trading under $5, are the focus here as those priced below $1. These shares typically belong to small companies with modest market capitalizations, often traded on over-the-counter (OTC) markets or smaller exchanges. However, some, like those listed on the NYSE or Nasdaq, adhere to stricter regulatory standards, offering more transparency.
Characteristics of Penny Stocks: Penny stocks are known for their high volatility, low liquidity, and limited public information. This makes them riskier than higher-priced stocks but also creates opportunities for substantial gains. A small price movement, like a jump from $0.50 to $1.00, can double your investment.
Low-Priced vs. Undervalued: Not all cheap stocks are undervalued. Some trade low due to poor financials, weak management, or market challenges. Undervalued stocks, however, may have strong fundamentals but are priced below their intrinsic value, making them prime targets for savvy investors.
Common Sectors: Penny stocks are prevalent in sectors like biotechnology, technology, mining, and emerging industries such as cannabis and cryptocurrencies. These areas attract speculative investment due to their potential for rapid growth and innovation.

Source: intellectia.ai
Why Invest in Stocks Under $1?
Investing in penny stocks can be appealing for several reasons, but it’s essential to weigh the benefits against the risks.
- Potential for High Returns: Due to their low price, even a small increase can result in significant percentage gains. For instance, a stock moving from $0.30 to $0.60 represents a 100% return.
- Accessibility: Penny stocks are ideal for investors with limited capital. You can buy thousands of shares for a few hundred dollars, making them accessible to beginners.
- Diversification: Adding penny stocks to your portfolio can diversify your investments, especially in high-growth sectors not represented in larger-cap stocks.
- Long-Term Growth: Some penny stocks belong to companies with innovative products or services that could lead to substantial growth over time, offering early investors significant rewards.
Risks to Consider
- Volatility: Prices can swing dramatically, leading to potential losses.
- Liquidity Issues: Low trading volumes can make it hard to buy or sell without impacting the price.
- Transparency: Smaller companies may provide less financial information, complicating valuation.
With careful research and strategic planning, penny stocks under $1 can be a rewarding addition to your portfolio.
Criteria for Selecting Stocks Under $1 that Will Explode
To identify penny stocks with the potential for significant growth, consider these key criteria:
Financial Health
Look for companies with positive revenue growth, manageable debt, and a path to profitability. Strong cash flow and low debt-to-equity ratios are positive indicators.
Market Trends and Industry Growth
Invest in sectors with strong growth prospects, such as biotechnology, clean energy, or technology. Companies in these areas are more likely to benefit from market tailwinds.
Trading Volume and Liquidity
Ensure the stock has sufficient trading volume to facilitate buying and selling without significant price impact. A daily volume of at least 200,000 shares is a good benchmark.
Analyst Ratings
Positive analyst ratings, such as “Buy” or “Strong Buy,” and high price targets indicate confidence in the stock’s potential.
Company Fundamentals
Evaluate the company’s business model, competitive advantages, management team, and market position. A clear growth strategy is crucial.
Using tools like Intellectia AI’s Stock Screener can help you filter stocks based on these criteria.

Source: intellectia.ai
Cheap Stocks to Buy Now Under $1 Dollar
Below is a comparative overview of six promising penny stocks under $1 for 2025, each with unique strengths and growth potential:
Company Name | Ticker | Sector | Market Cap | Key Strengths |
---|---|---|---|---|
Immunic, Inc. | IMUX | Biotechnology | $92.05M | Advanced clinical trials for autoimmune diseases |
Ur-Energy Inc. | URG | Energy (Uranium) | $250.05M | State-approved mining, analyst buy ratings |
Inuvo, Inc. | INUV | Technology (Ad Tech) | $76.02M | Strong revenue growth, AI-based solutions |
i-80 Gold Corp. | IAUX | Basic Materials (Mining) | $424.39M | Multiple mining projects, analyst buy ratings |
Biodesix, Inc. | BDSX | Healthcare (Diagnostics) | $44.12M | Innovative lung disease tests, revenue growth |
Pixelworks, Inc. | PXLW | Technology (Semiconductors) | $32.13M | Visual processing solutions, analyst buy ratings |
Immunic, Inc. (IMUX)
Immunic, Inc. is a biotechnology company developing oral therapies for chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Its lead candidate, vidofludimus calcium (IMU-838), is in Phase III trials for relapsing multiple sclerosis and has shown promising results in Phase II for various forms of multiple sclerosis and ulcerative colitis.
In April 2025, the Phase 2 CALLIPER trial reported a 30% reduction in disability worsening for primary progressive multiple sclerosis. Priced at $0.92, IMUX offers significant (89%) upside if its drug gains approval, making it a top pick for biotech investors.

Source: intellectia.ai
Ur-Energy Inc. (URG)
Ur-Energy Inc. operates in uranium mining, with projects like the Lost Creek Project in Wyoming, which received state approval in April 2025. The company shipped 106,301 lbs. of uranium in Q1 2025, positioning it to capitalize on rising demand for clean energy.
Analysts rate URG a Buy, with an average price target of $2.17, suggesting a 149% upside from its current $0.87 price. Its strategic assets and analyst support make URG a compelling choice in the energy sector.

Source: intellectia.ai
Inuvo, Inc. (INUV)
Inuvo, Inc. is an advertising technology company using AI to deliver targeted ads. Its IntentKey platform optimizes ad placement, driving Q1 2025 revenue to $26.71 million, a 56.89% year-over-year increase.
Priced at $0.43, INUV has a consensus analyst price target of $1.50, indicating a 245% upside. Its strong revenue growth and innovative AI solutions make it a standout in the tech sector.

Source: intellectia.ai
i-80 Gold Corp. (IAUX)
i-80 Gold Corp. focuses on gold and silver mining in Nevada, with projects like Lone Tree and Ruby Hill. Despite a recent 21.3% downward revision in revenue forecasts, analysts maintain a Moderate Buy rating with a $1.43 price target, suggesting a 176% upside from the current $0.52.
The company’s diverse portfolio and strategic location in a mining-friendly region position it for potential growth.

Source: intellectia.ai
Biodesix, Inc. (BDSX)
Biodesix, Inc. develops diagnostic tests for lung disease using AI and multi-omics. Q1 2025 revenue grew 21.19% year-over-year to $17.96 million, though the company cut its full-year guidance. Analysts remain bullish, with a Strong Buy rating and a $2.88 price target, indicating a 740% upside from the current $0.34.
Biodesix’s innovative tests and analyst confidence make it a high-potential healthcare pick.

Source: intellectia.ai
Pixelworks, Inc. (PXLW)
Pixelworks, Inc. provides visual processing solutions for mobile, home entertainment, and cinema markets. Despite a 55.81% revenue drop in Q1 2025, analysts have revised FY2025 revenue expectations upward by 3.64%.
With a Moderate Buy rating and a $1.75 price target, PXLW offers a 257% upside from its $0.49 price. Its innovative technology positions it for recovery in the semiconductor space.

Source: intellectia.ai
Tips for Successful Investing in Cheap Stocks Under 1 Dollar
Investing in 1 dollar stocks requires diligence and strategy. Here are key tips to maximize your success:
- Conduct Thorough Due Diligence: Research financial statements, management, and industry trends. Look for red flags like high debt or inconsistent revenue.
- Focus on Growth Strategies: Invest in companies with clear plans for expansion, such as new products or market penetration.
- Use Analytical Tools: Platforms like Intellectia AI’s Swing Trading and Technical Analysis provide trading signals and insights to optimize entry and exit points.
- Monitor News and Earnings: Stay informed with Intellectia AI News for updates on earnings and catalysts that could impact prices.
- Adapt Your Strategy: Decide whether to hold long-term or trade short-term based on your goals and risk tolerance. Explore Intellectia AI’s Day Trading Center for short-term strategies.

Source: intellectia.ai
Conclusion
Penny stocks under $1 offer a unique opportunity for investors seeking high returns on a small budget. While their volatility and risks require caution, stocks like IMUX, URG, INUV, IAUX, BDSX, and PXLW show promise for 2025 due to their strong fundamentals and analyst support.
By applying rigorous research, leveraging tools like Intellectia AI, and staying informed, you can navigate this market effectively. Ready to explore these opportunities? Use Intellectia AI to access AI-powered stock picks, trading signals, and market analysis to stay ahead in 2025.