Megaport share price plunges 16% as investors flee

The technology stock is on the nose on Thursday after a quarterly update and events in the US.

| More on:
A worried man holds his head and look at his computer.

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 Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1) share price is in freefall on Thursday morning after its latest quarterly update was released.

In early trade the stock had dropped $1.88 from the Wednesday closing price of $11.51, equating to a shocking 16.3% loss.

The virtual networking technology provider had released a business update before market open, which may have triggered the panic selling.

Let's check out what the report said:

'Rebuild and recovery of momentum will take time'

Like many in the tech sector, over the past year Megaport has been working on transforming from a cash-burning business to one that pays its way.

The September quarter update showed that the company is on its way, with record earnings and positive cash flow:

  • EBITDA of $15 million, up $14 million year on year
  • Cash flow from operating activities at positive $10.7 million
  • Revenue of $46.5 million, up 5% from previous quarter
  • Record annual recurring revenue of $189.8 million, up 5% from previous quarter

Megaport chief executive Michael Reid said that the first quarter of this financial year has "set the tone".

"While the rebuild and recovery of momentum will take time, our investment in go-to-market strategies, increased sales headcount, network enhancements, and the introduction of new products underscore our dedication to delivering exceptional value for our customers and propelling our Annual Recurring Revenue growth."

US tech enters correction territory

So with seemingly positive results, why were investors running from Megaport shares like it was a burning building?

One possible reason is that they were disappointed with customer growth.

The company only raised total services by 2% from the June quarter, while net new customer ports only saw an increase of 1%.

A second driver could be that tech stocks were sold off heavily in the US overnight.

With a painful 2.43% drop for the day, Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) entered correction territory.

The index, which is dominated by technology stocks, has now lost more than 10.6% since the end of July, which exceeds the correction threshold of a 10% loss.

Motley Fool contributor Tony Yoo has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Megaport. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Megaport. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Technology Shares

Man ponders a receipt as he looks at his laptop.
Technology Shares

Brokers rerate 3 leading ASX 200 tech stocks

Experts reveal their ratings on the ASX 200 tech sector's three biggest companies.

Read more »

Hologram of a man next to a human robot, symbolising artificial intelligence.
AI Stocks

Why Macquarie forecasts a big rebound for these 2 quality ASX All Ords tech stocks

Macquarie expects a big rebound is coming for these AI linked, ASX All Ords tech stocks.

Read more »

A young man goes over his finances and investment portfolio at home.
Technology Shares

Is it too late to buy DroneShield shares?

This high-flying stock is up 90% since this time last month. Where next? Let's find out.

Read more »

A frustrated male investor frowns with his hands and arms open asking why the share price has dropped today.
Technology Shares

Why this high-flying ASX 200 tech stock just got downgraded

Let's see which stock has been hit with a downgrade today.

Read more »

Delighted adult man, working on a company slogan, on his laptop.
Technology Shares

Up 10% in a day, why this ASX tech share is exciting investors

It’s been a good start to the week for this company’s shareholders.

Read more »

Two smiling work colleagues discuss an investment or business plan at their office.
Technology Shares

Which ASX 200 tech stock is jumping 8% to record high?

This high-flying stock had another strong quarter.

Read more »

A businessman leaps in the air outside a city building in the CBD.
Technology Shares

Guess which ASX 300 stock is jumping 13% on guidance upgrade

A profit upgrade has gone down well with investors today.

Read more »

drone technology, drone defence, woman operating drone
Technology Shares

DroneShield shares rocket 11% to record high on big news

Let's see what this high-flying stock has announced this morning.

Read more »