Could this boost Zip's prospects of success in the US market?

Zip has recruited a former American Express executive for its United States management team.

| More on:
A man leans forward over his phone in his hands with a satisfied smirk on his face although he has just learned something pleasing or received some satisfying news.

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

Key points

  • The Zip share price closed steady on Tuesday at 43 cents 
  • Zip has announced the appointment of a former American Express executive to its United States management team
  • Investors are waiting to find out whether Zip turned its US business cash flow positive in FY23, as per its goals 

The Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) share price closed steady on Tuesday at 43 cents.

The buy now, pay later (BNPL) share continues to cause despair among its shareholders.

Zip shares lost 7.3% in value in FY23 and marked the end of the financial year with a new 52-week low.

It hit 40 cents per share on 30 June.

Investors are now eagerly awaiting Zip's next report during the August reporting season.

Zip has laid out two key financial goals over the past year since changing its entire company strategy:

  • Turn the United States business division cash flow positive by the end of FY23
  • Turn the whole company cash flow positive by the first half of FY24. 

So, in August we will find out if Zip has achieved its first goal.

In its March 2023 quarterly report, Zip said it "remains on track" to do so.

Meantime, Zip has announced a key managerial appointment that may help its US division to expand.

Key managerial appointment

According to businesswire.com, Zip has announced the appointment of former American Express and Capital One Financial Corp executive Andy Stearns to its US management team.

Stearns will be Zip's senior vice president and head of merchant business in the US.

The Zip share price fell 2.27% yesterday amid the announcement appearing on businesswire. The appointment was not announced on the ASX.

Stearns will be charged with growing Zip's merchant network and driving product innovation to assist retail merchants.

Zip's global CEO Larry Diamond described Stearns as "an exceptional global financial services leader".

He leaves his former job at Capital One where he looked after customer management groups in the business cards and payments division.

Stearns previously worked at American Express as director of small business relationship management and global corporate payments business development.

Diamond added:

His unparalleled expertise within the payments industry and vast network make him uniquely suited for this pivotal role. We eagerly anticipate the valuable contributions he will bring to our organization.

Stearns said:

… Buy Now Pay Later is still in its infancy and expected to grow 3X in the next 5 years in the US.

Now is the time for merchants to capitalize on the opportunity & together, we will further revolutionize the industry and leave a lasting impact.

What's next for Zip shares?

FY24 may be a better year for Zip shares if the company can achieve its two key financial goals.

A long-standing headwind for the Zip share price was the anticipated tightening of government regulation for the BNPL sector.

The government finally made a decision in May and went with Zip's preferred middle-ground option.

American Express is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has positions in Zip Co. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Zip Co. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Financial Shares

A woman sits at her computer with her chin resting on her hand as she contemplates her next potential investment.
Financial Shares

IAG share price reaches new 5-year high! What next?

It’s been a great period for the insurance giant. Could it keep rising?

Read more »

Shot of a young businesswoman looking stressed out while working in an office.
Financial Shares

This $7 billion ASX 200 stock just crashed 11%. What's going on?

There's trouble in India and it's weighing on this stock today.

Read more »

A happy male investor turns around on his chair to look at a friend while a laptop runs on his desk showing share price movements
Financial Shares

Here's what this top broker is saying about Macquarie shares

Is this investment bank heading to a new record high?

Read more »

A smiling businessman in the city looks at his phone and punches the air in celebration of good news.
Financial Shares

Up 25% in a year, why this ASX All Ords stock has 'plenty more upside'

Analysts think this stock could still have plenty of gas left in its tank.

Read more »

Two people climb to the summit and raise their arms in success as the sun rises brightly over the mountains.
Financial Shares

'Strong momentum': 2 ASX financial shares backed by top fundie for 2025

ASX financial shares had a strong trading session on Tuesday with several new price records set.

Read more »

A woman presenting company news to investors looks back at the camera and smiles.
Financial Shares

AMP shares on radar as M&A spotlight shines bright

The stock has rallied hard in 2024.

Read more »

Modern accountant woman in a light business suit in modern green office with documents and laptop.
Financial Shares

Are IAG shares still a buy for dividends at a 5-year high?

Here's my take on IAG's place in an income portfolio today.

Read more »

A male investor sits at his desk looking at his laptop screen holding his hand to his chin pondering whether to buy Macquarie shares
Financial Shares

After ResMed's 60% rise, this investor is now bullish on the 'most hated' ASX stock

Sometimes it pays to be a contrarian.

Read more »