Value Trap is a term used by investors to describe investments that appear to be underpriced compared to their peers and are therefore perceived to represent attractive buying opportunities. However, what may seem attractively priced to investors is often an illusion caused by a company's poor financials and an absence of potential for growth. In other words, these are investments that have been mispriced by the market – but not in a favorable way for the investors.

Value Traps generally arise from a combination of several factors. The company may be facing financial missteps that have weighed down its stock price and caused it to underperform the broader market. For instance, the firm may be caught up in financial trouble due to mismanagement, or it may have been dealing with fraud or other negative publicity. Their poor financials may result in a disregarded outlook, or investors may be unwarrantedly bearish on the company’s prospects.

Furthermore, the company may be struggling to stay innovative and relevant, unable to keep up with the ever changing market trends. This can lead investors to assume the value of its stocks is permanently depressed, leading to a lack of reasonable upside potential. The market may also be overvaluing the company’s competitors and undervaluing the investment in question, making it difficult for the company to gain any traction.

It is wise for investors to exercise caution when considering potential value traps, as this type of investment can be incredibly risky. Low prices do not always equate to good investments, and investors should always do their own research to identify potential problems that may have caused the stocks to trade at their current prices and multiples. Factors to consider include the company's competitive advantage and potential for future growth, its current financial standings, management, debt and product offerings. By weighing these factors together, an investor can determine whether the company’s stock is worth the risk or if it has been accurately priced by the market.

Investors should be wary of value traps, as they can be an easy way to lose money. However, if done properly, it is possible to spot value opportunities that can yield a good return. Whatever the case, always remember to do your own due diligence and be sure not to be fooled by an attractive price.