StoneCo (STNE) Company Overview

StoneCo Ltd. (STNE) finished the last trading session at $9.22, which represents a decrease of 1.28% compared to the previous day's closing price.

StoneCo Ltd. (STNE) reachead $9.34 at the closing of the latest trading day, reflecting a -0.53% change compared to its last close.

StoneCo Ltd. (STNE) reachead $8.84 at the closing of the latest trading day, reflecting a -0.79% change compared to its last close.

StoneCo: A Rare Buying Opportunity (Rating Upgrade)

In 3Q24, STNE's revenue grew 6.91% y/y to R$3.36 billion, with significant increases in payment volume, digital banking deposits, and credit portfolio. Margins slightly deteriorated, with operating margin at 52.79% and EBITDA margin at 60.65%, but net margin expanded due to lower financial expenses. Although Brazil's economy will continue to weigh on the potential of STNE, the company has multiple initiatives to maintain its operational excellence and outperformance.

StoneCo's stock has plummeted 50% over the past year, largely due to rising interest rates in Brazil, not necessarily company-specific issues. Despite the macroeconomic headwinds, StoneCo remains a key financial ecosystem for SMEs in Brazil, offering diverse monetization avenues beyond pure transactions. Q3 2024 results showed a 35% YoY growth in net profit and an 8% YoY increase in revenue, driven by financial services.

STNE saw a decline in TPV in key accounts and a rise in NPL. Yet, growth in banking clients and credit portfolio expansion hint at future recovery.

When deciding whether to buy, sell, or hold a stock, investors often rely on analyst recommendations. Media reports about rating changes by these brokerage-firm-employed (or sell-side) analysts often influence a stock's price, but are they really important?

STNE benefits from strong growth in MSMB and an expanding credit portfolio despite increased competition and macro uncertainties.