2 Dirt Cheap Stocks to Buy With $1,000 Right Now

The S&P 500 had been holding steady this year after reaching new highs in 2025, but it's starting to turn south amid global turmoil and skyrocketing oil prices.

Although no one likes to see the market dip, it could be good news for long-term investors who have been waiting for bargains. If you have $1,000 and you're looking for excellent stocks trading at dirt cheap prices, consider Carnival (NYSE: CCL)(NYSE: CUK), and Target (NYSE: TGT).

Image source: Carnival.

1. Carnival

Carnival stock is still making its way back to pre-pandemic levels, and the company has demonstrated resilience as it keeps reaching new records every quarter. It ended fiscal 2025 (ended Nov. 30, 2025) with a record $3.1 billion in adjusted net income, 60% higher than the prior year, and $4.5 billion in operating income, up 25%.

The cruise operator is still servicing an enormous debt, although it's been paying it off at a steady pace. It ended the year with nearly $27 billion in total debt, $10 billion off its peak.

Despite the strong performance, Carnival stock is down this year due to near-term worries about high oil prices. Oil prices are an important component of a cruise company's operations, and higher prices could significantly impact Carnival's operating metrics.

Carnival stock trades at a P/E ratio of only 12, which is a bargain for an industry leader with plenty of future opportunity.

2. Target

Target has had the opposite trajectory of Carnival. It reported fantastic performance during the pandemic, only to struggle in the aftermath. What started as over-inventory when inflation started has turned into a morass of merchandise that isn't resonating with Target's core consumer and a loss of the distinctive edge that has helped Target stand out in the past. The company has also run into political issues that have cooled its base.

Michael Fiddelke has just stepped into the CEO's shoes, and the market was enthusiastic about his strategy to get Target back to growth. The company is planning to spend $2 billion in extra capital in 2026 to clean up stores, improve customer service, and recreate the company's branding. It's also going to amplify its owned-brand strategy, which has historically been an attraction for shoppers.

The market also celebrated Target's earnings beat in the fiscal 2025 fourth quarter (ended Jan. 31, 2026). Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $2.44 exceeded Wall Street's expectations of $2.16.

Since Target's turnaround is still murky, its stock is still cheap, trading at only 14 times trailing-12-month earnings. Target also offers an excellent dividend, so it could already be valuable to shareholders.

Jennifer Saibil has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Target. The Motley Fool recommends Carnival Corp. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.