Morningstar Quantitative Ratings for Stocks are generated using an algorithm that compares companies that are not under analyst coverage to peer companies that do receive analyst-driven ratings.

Both involve a company’s finances, but their differences are significant. Sean Ross is a strategic adviser at 1031x.com, Investopedia contributor, and the founder and manager of Free Lances Ltd.

You’ve seen the headlines. Now let’s break them open. Sasha-Ann Simons connects you with the people behind the stories: experts, neighbors and newsmakers who shape the city we share. It’s news, ...