Why did the Openpay (ASX:OPY) share price slide today?

The Openpay (ASX:OPY) share price closed almost 5% lower today. Let's take a look at the buy now pay later (BNPL) industry for some clues as to why.

| 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 Openpay Group Ltd (ASX: OPY) share price plunged this afternoon. At close of trade, Openpay shares are sitting at $2.49 apiece, down 4.96%.

What was weighing on the Openpay share price today?

In addition to the broader tech share sell-off, the Australian Financial Review recently reported that the buy now, pay later (BNPL) providers have drawn up new standards to regulate the industry. Under the new regulations, credit checks will be more stringent.

This action follows a 2019 senate query into BNPL with the intention to protect customers. With big players like Afterpay Ltd (ASX: APT) involved in the mix, it's no wonder that the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and Reserve Bank are throwing in 2 cents about the new rules.

ASIC believes that too many customers are being charged late fees. The Reserve Bank thinks that the fee merchants charge is too high. 

The uncertainty over how these new standards will impact BNPL players could also be contributing to the negative sentiment.

What else is Openpay up to?

According to its first half FY21 update, Openpay has commenced a launch in the US. The Openpay US leg 'Opy' is taking shape in San Diego, California. The company is also planning to expand into the healthcare and automative industries in the UK.

The company also has major new merchants on board, with Ford Australia agreeing to offer Openpay payment options in addition to Kogan.com Ltd (ASX: KGN). 

Openpay also made note of the new regulatory environment in its latest earnings report. The company states that "Openpay is a code compliant member of the Australian Finance Industry Association (AFIA). It is expected that the AFIA Buy Now Pay Later Code of Practice will commence in March 2021."

Considering that the code of practice is so new, it's difficult for the market to form an opinion on the impact it will have on business.

Openpay share price snapshot

The Openpay share price has fallen 24% over the past three weeks.

At the current price, the Openpay market capitalisation is $275.4 million. There are 108 million shares outstanding.

Should you invest $1,000 in Kogan.com Limited right now?

Before you buy Kogan.com Limited shares, consider this:

Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now... and Kogan.com Limited wasn't one of them.

The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys...

See The 5 Stocks *Returns as of 30 April 2025

Gretchen Kennedy owns shares of Kogan.com ltd. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of AFTERPAY T FPO and Kogan.com ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Kogan.com ltd. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Share Market News

Person pretends to types on laptop drawn in sand.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a happy finish to the week for ASX shares this Friday.

Read more »

Three people in a corporate office pour over a tablet, ready to invest.
Broker Notes

Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

Here's why brokers are feeling bullish about these three shares this week.

Read more »

A mature age woman with a groovy short haircut and glasses, sits at her computer, pen in hand thinking about information she is seeing on the screen.
Share Market News

ASX shares in April: 8 key takeaways according to Macquarie

Here are eight key takeaways from April, according to a new note from the broker.

Read more »

Woman looking at a phone with stock market bars in the background.
Share Market News

Market outlook: Should I 'sell in May and go away'?

May is the time to sell... If you believe in fairytales.

Read more »

Five young people sit in a row having fun and interacting with their mobile phones.
Share Gainers

5 ASX All Ords stocks rocketing higher this week

Investors sent these five ASX All Ords stocks soaring this week. But why?

Read more »

Frustrated stock trader screaming while looking at mobile phone, symbolising a falling share price.
Share Fallers

Why Block, Corporate Travel Management, Judo, and Zip shares are sinking today

These shares are missing out on the good times on Friday. But why?

Read more »

Overjoyed man celebrating success with yes gesture after getting some good news on mobile.
Share Gainers

Why Boss Energy, Capstone, Dimerix, and Platinum shares are storming higher today

These shares are having a good finish to the week. Let's find out why.

Read more »

A shocked man holding some documents in the living room.
Broker Notes

Macquarie's take on Judo Capital shares after suddenly falling 19% yesterday?

Judo Bank was the ASX's top-performing banking stock in 2024.

Read more »