UpworkNASDAQ: UPWK

The world's largest digital freelance platform, Upwork Inc. NASDAQ: UPWK, took proactive measures ahead of its upcoming third quarter of 2024 earnings release due out Nov. 6, 2024. The company preannounced upside Q3 guidance along with organizational changes in its efforts to drive profits.

Upwork might soon be a slimmer, more effective, and profitable company.

Upwork and Fiverr have seen steep declines due to concerns over slowing revenue growth, partly driven by AI replacing some freelancing services. While AI has reduced demand for simple tasks like logo design, it has boosted freelancer productivity and created new service opportunities. Both platforms are attractively priced, but Fiverr stands out with better engagement metrics, higher gross margins, and strong app ratings.

Upwork (UPWK) was a big mover last session on higher-than-average trading volume. The latest trend in earnings estimate revisions might not help the stock continue moving higher in the near term.

Approximately $60 million in annual cost savings advances Upwork toward 5-year profitability target Company expects to exceed revenue and adjusted EBITDA guidance for third quarter 2024 results SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Upwork Inc. (Nasdaq: UPWK) (“Upwork” or the “Company”), the world's work marketplace that connects businesses with independent talent across the globe, today announced a more streamlined organizational structure and operational changes to continue the Company's profitable trajectory, increase efficiency, and accelerate innovation for its customers. “We are making ourselves a more streamlined and efficient organization, continuing our successful focus on durable, profitable growth and delivering value for our customers and shareholders,” said Hayden Brown, president and CEO, Upwork.

Today, we take a look at Upwork, Inc. after Engine Capital recently initiated a 3.5% stake in the firm amid criticism of management's strategic direction. Despite macroeconomic challenges and AI concerns, Upwork's simplified fee structure and cost-cutting measures improved take rates and profitability in FY23. Upwork's strong cash flow and low valuation multiples highlight its potential for long-term growth, despite AI fears and competitive pressures.

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Upwork Inc. (Nasdaq: UPWK), the world's largest work marketplace that connects businesses with independent talent from across the globe, today announced that it will report its financial results for the third quarter of 2024 on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 after market close. The company will host a Q&A conference call to discuss these results at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (5:00 p.m. Eastern Time) on the same day.

Upwork, the leading freelancing platform with a 31-32% market share, benefits from two-sided network effects, attracting both freelancers and employers. Despite a challenging environment, Upwork maintains strong financials, expects 7.5% revenue growth this year and increasing profitability next years due to operational leverage. Fair Value derived through a DCF model is $13.37 with WACC = 10.5% and perpetuity growth of 3%, pointing to 28% upside from the current price.

Data shows organizations refining operating models are driving innovation while seeing reduced expenses, positive cash flow, and stronger balance sheets