Core Concepts: A Look at Chemical Stocks

This column was originally published on RealMoney on Feb. 1 at 8:52 a.m. EST. It's being republished as a bonus for TheStreet.com readers. For more information about subscribing to RealMoney, please click here.

So you want to be a better investor. There's a key prerequisite: You must have a desire to learn. By enhancing your investing skill set, you'll improve your odds of identifying bargain stocks more easily and be less likely to overlook multi-bagger opportunities.

Over the next few months, I'll be integrating core investing concepts into a methodical review of stocks in every major market sector. Today, I'll take a look at chemical companies, and tomorrow, I'll examine stocks in the computer and office supply sectors.

Although chemical stocks don't hold much allure for many investors, don't make the mistake of dismissing this group out of hand. Bargain-hunters are willing to go anywhere and everywhere in pursuit of heavily discounted assets. In fact, it's easier to spot bargains in sectors that are largely ignored by the investing crowd. ...