Stockchase Insights
Plug Power Inc
PLUG-Q
HOLD
Sep 22, 2023
Trevor Rose’s Insights - Trevor’s most-liked answers from 5i Research
PLUG stock has been quite weak, but it is still in fundamental growth mode. Sales are expected to go from ~$700M in 2022 to more than $1.9B in 2024, based on estimates. It is, however, still losing money, with negative cash flow, and in a weaker market tape investors get more concerned about this. The balance sheet is decent, with about $400M net cash, but we note cash flow was negative $1B in the last 12 months. It will likely need more capital, and it may be more interesting when it decides to issue equity (we are assuming a discounted price if this happens). Its loss last quarter was higher than expected, and it had previously expected to be profitable this year, but this now looks to be pushed into 2025. So, we like the growth trend, but are a little concerned about its capital needs. We think buyers can wait here. Unlock Premium - Try 5i Free
A great environmental play, making hydrogen fuel cells. The stock broke out today by nearly 9%. It remains a revenue, not an earnings story, but he believes clean energy buyers will keep this stock going for the next two months at least.
The Inflation Reduction Act will support cheaper hydrogen, which is a tailwind for PLUG. PLUG reports tomorrow. But they need to be more than just a niche fuel-cell producer. PLUG doesn't do well in earnings day, so keep that in mind.
PLUG stock has been quite weak, but it is still in fundamental growth mode. Sales are expected to go from ~$700M in 2022 to more than $1.9B in 2024, based on estimates. It is, however, still losing money, with negative cash flow, and in a weaker market tape investors get more concerned about this. The balance sheet is decent, with about $400M net cash, but we note cash flow was negative $1B in the last 12 months. It will likely need more capital, and it may be more interesting when it decides to issue equity (we are assuming a discounted price if this happens). Its loss last quarter was higher than expected, and it had previously expected to be profitable this year, but this now looks to be pushed into 2025. So, we like the growth trend, but are a little concerned about its capital needs. We think buyers can wait here.
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