These were the worst performing ASX 200 shares in April

Challenger Ltd (ASX:CGF) and Nuix Ltd (ASX:NXL) shares were among the worst performers on the ASX 200 in April…

asx share price falling lower represented by investor wearing paper bag on head with sad face

Image source: Getty Images

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 S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has just completed its best month of the year. Over the 30 days, the benchmark index rose an impressive 3.5% to finish it at 7,025.8 points.

Unfortunately, not all shares were able to follow its lead. Here's why these were the worst performers on the ASX 200 in April:

Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC)

The Whitehaven Coal share price was the worst performer on the ASX 200 in April with a 27.5% decline. The coal miner's shares came under significant pressure following the release of a production and guidance update. That update reveals that the company's production has been impacted by poor weather conditions and geological challenges. As a result, management has downgraded its FY 2021 managed ROM production guidance at the Narrabri mine. Rather than its previous guidance of 5.3Mt to 5.5Mt, the company now expects production of 4.5Mt to 4.9Mt.

Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT)

The Beach Energy share price wasn't far behind with a disappointing 25.7% decline in April. Almost all of this decline came on the final day of the month following the release of its quarterly update. That update fell short of expectations due largely to issues at the Western Flank oil and gas operation. The issues aren't going away any time soon, which has led to Beach downgrading its FY 2021 production guidance and withdrawing its five-year outlook.

Challenger Ltd (ASX: CGF)

The Challenger share price was out of form in April and sank 20.2% over the 30 days. Investors were selling the annuities company's shares after the release of a disappointing third quarter update. Although Challenger reported solid growth in its assets under management, it surprised the market with commentary around its margins. Challenger advised that they have been impacted by a sharp decline in credit spreads over the year. This means it only expects to hit the low end of its earnings guidance range. And while management plans to lift prices significantly to combat this, there are concerns that this will weigh on sales.

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price was a poor performer and tumbled 19.8% lower last month. The catalyst for this was the investigative analytics and intelligence software provider downgrading its FY 2021 guidance just six weeks since reaffirming it. Nuix advised that during April, a significant and larger than expected number of customers elected to transition from module-based subscription licenses to consumption and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) license models. This has resulted in a shift in both revenue and Annualised Contract Value (ACV) profiles.

James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. recommends Nuix Pty Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Challenger Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Nuix Pty 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 Fallers

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

Why Qantas, Resimac, Tyro, and Soul Patts shares are falling today

These shares are having a tough session today. But why?

Read more »

a man weraing a suit sits nervously at his laptop computer biting into his clenched hand with nerves, and perhaps fear.
Share Fallers

Why Betr, Evolution, NIB, and West African Resources shares are falling today

These shares are having a tough time on hump day. But why?

Read more »

A young woman holds an open book over her head with a round mouthed expression as if to say oops as she looks at her computer screen in a home office setting with a plant on the desk and shelves of books in the background.
Share Fallers

Why Elders, IDP Education, Life360, and Pilbara Minerals shares are falling today

Let's see why investors are selling these shares.

Read more »

a woman holds her hands to her temples as she sits in front of a computer screen with a concerned look on her face.
Share Fallers

The 5 worst performing ASX 200 shares in May unmasked

These five ASX 200 shares got smashed in May. But why?

Read more »

Disappointed man with his head on his hand looking at a falling share price his a laptop.
Share Fallers

Why Brazilian Rare Earths, Mineral Resources, Pilbara Minerals, and Syrah shares are falling

Why are these shares starting the week in the red?

Read more »

A male investor wearing a blue shirt looks off to the side with a miffed look on his face as the share price declines.
Share Fallers

Why Brainchip, Findi, Lottery Corp, and REA shares are falling today

These shares are ending the week in the red. But why?

Read more »

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

Why ALS, Black Cat, Boss Energy, and Soul Patts shares are falling today

These shares are falling on Thursday. Let's find out why.

Read more »

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

Why ALS, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, IPD, and Predictive Discovery shares are falling today

These shares are having a tough time on hump day. But why?

Read more »