Down approximately 60% from its all-time highs, Shopify Inc. (NYSE:SHOP) is currently trading at a significant discount compared to consensus price target estimates. Since its initial public offering (IPO) nine years ago, shares of Shopify have seen a remarkable 2,920% return.
Overview of Shopify
Shopify, with a market capitalization of US$88 billion, ranks among the largest companies on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). It stands as a prominent global e-commerce platform, providing merchants with essential infrastructure to establish and operate online businesses effectively. With a diverse portfolio of solutions, Shopify empowers companies to initiate, expand, market, and manage their retail ventures seamlessly.
The company prioritizes enhancing the online and offline shopping experience for consumers and serves millions of businesses across 175 countries. Trusted by renowned brands like Netflix and Mattel, Shopify continues to play a pivotal role in the e-commerce landscape.
Prospects for Shopify Stock in 2024
Similar to many growth stocks, Shopify faced challenges during the 2022 bear market. Concerns arose regarding the company’s decelerating revenue growth and narrowing profit margins amidst a volatile macroeconomic environment. Despite these challenges, Shopify maintained a strong growth trajectory.
While Shopify’s revenue growth slowed to 23.6% annually over the past two years, it demonstrated resilience by achieving a 23% year-over-year increase in sales in the fourth quarter of 2023. Furthermore, Shopify’s strategic decision to divest from the low-margin logistics business aimed to bolster profit margins and fortify its financial position.
Expansion of Shopify’s AI Portfolio
Shopify continues to enrich its suite of products and solutions, anticipating higher engagement rates and spending on its platform. In 2023, the company introduced several AI-powered offerings, including Shopify Magic and Sidekick, designed to enhance productivity and workflows for merchants. Additionally, Shopify launched an AI shopping assistant to personalize the shopping experience for consumers through tailored product recommendations.
Future Outlook for Shopify Stock
Compared to its e-commerce counterparts like Etsy, Shopify has made significant progress in its cost-cutting initiatives, instilling confidence among investors. With a focus on achieving consistent profit margins, Shopify closed the fourth quarter of 2023 with a cash flow margin of 13%.
Analysts forecast robust growth for Shopify, projecting a nearly 60% annual increase in adjusted earnings over the next five years. Based on these projections, Shopify could achieve earnings per share of US$7.5 by 2028, representing a substantial upside potential for SHOP stock.
Market analysts maintain a bullish outlook on Shopify, anticipating a more than 20% surge in its share price over the next 12 months.
Featured Image: Megapixl
Author Faith Yakubu 
