Why the Afterpay (ASX:APT) share price has further to run

The Afterpay Ltd (ASX: APT) share price has surged higher in 2020 but is the buy now, pay later share running out of legs?

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The Afterpay Ltd (ASX: APT) share price has been on a tearing run in recent times.

Shares in the group have edged 1.5% lower in this morning's trade as the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) got off to a weak start.

Despite concerns of being overvalued at the start of the year, however, Afterpay's value has rocketed 167.0% higher in 2020.

That has been music to the ears the buy now, pay later leader's shareholders. But some have started to question whether or not the Afterpay share price is still good value.

Here are a few reasons why I think Afterpay's stock can continue to rise in 2021.

$100 notes multiplying into the future representing asx growth shares

Image source: Getty Images

Why the Afterpay share price can climb higher

For one thing, the company has shown an ability to maintain a low bad debts expense while growing.

There were concerns that Afterpay's growth would see a similar rise in write downs and bad debtors. That hasn't proved to be the case so far with strong technology systems keeping losses low.

I think the addressable market for Afterpay is also still significant. The group now has global operations including in the United States and United Kingdom.

More and more market entrants are trying to carve out a piece of the market. However, Afterpay is a true industry leader with a strong network and significant financial backing.

I think the global market remains a lucrative prospect for Afterpay. Tencent taking a 5 per cent stake in the business will only boost its profile in Asia.

The regulatory environment is starting to look more settled. We've seen numerous inquiries that have not restricted Afterpay's growth in recent years.

If we see a strong economic bounceback from the coronavirus pandemic then I could see the Afterpay share price hitting $100 per share in early 2021.

Foolish takeaway

I think a combination of market opportunity and strong management is the key.

If Afterpay can carve out even a small piece of major international markets then it can be worth more than its current $23 billion.

Motley Fool contributor Ken Hall has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of AFTERPAY T FPO. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Share Gainers

Small chocolate bunnies.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a rough end to the short trading week.

Read more »

Man drawing an upward line on a bar graph symbolising a rising share price.
Share Gainers

Why Greatland Resources, Newmont, Northern Star, and Qantas shares are rising today

These shares are ending the shortened week on a high.

Read more »

A panel of four judges hold up cards all showing the perfect score of ten out of ten
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a veritable party on the ASX today.

Read more »

Excited couple celebrating success while looking at smartphone.
Share Gainers

Why Arafura Rare Earths, Eagers Automotive, Life360, and Pro Medicus shares are racing higher today

These shares are having a good session on hump day. But why?

Read more »

a man wearing old fashioned aviator cap and goggles emerges from the top of a cannon pointed towards the sky. He is holding a phone and taking a selfie.
Energy Shares

Guess which ASX 300 uranium stock is rocketing today on a 'fantastic milestone'

Investors are piling into this ASX 300 uranium stock on Wednesday. But why?

Read more »

A bland looking man in a brown suit opens his jacket to reveal a red and gold superhero dollar symbol on his chest.
Share Gainers

These were the best-performing ASX 200 shares in March

Here are the best-performing shares from the ASX 200 index last month.

Read more »

Multi-ethnic people looking at a camera in a public place and screaming, shouting, and feeling overjoyed.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a volatile but positive Tuesday.

Read more »

Two happy and excited friends in euphoria holding a smartphone, after winning in a bet.
Share Gainers

Why Challenger, Magellan, Northern Star, and West African Resources shares are storming higher

These shares are ending the month on a positive note. But why?

Read more »