Zoom’s shares surged by 13% in extended trading following the announcement of its fiscal fourth-quarter results, which exceeded analysts’ expectations. The company reported earnings per share of $1.22, adjusted, compared to the expected $1.15, and revenue of $1.15 billion, surpassing the anticipated $1.13 billion. Despite this positive outcome, the revenue only saw a marginal increase of less than 3% from the previous year, standing at $1.12 billion. Net income for the quarter reached $298.8 million, or 98 cents per share, significantly higher than the net loss of $104.1 million, or 36 cents per share, in the same quarter the year before.
In stark contrast to its peak performance during the Covid-19 pandemic, where an influx of remote workers drove revenue growth over 100% for five consecutive quarters, Zoom is now grappling with stagnant single-digit growth. The company’s forecast for the fiscal first quarter is projected to yield $1.18 to $1.20 in adjusted earnings per share on $1.125 billion in revenue, indicating a modest growth of under 2% from the previous year. Analysts had predicted figures of $1.13 in adjusted earnings per share and $1.13 billion in revenue, illustrating the challenges Zoom is currently facing in meeting market expectations.
Looking ahead to the 2025 fiscal year, Zoom anticipates adjusted earnings per share ranging from $4.85 to $4.88, with revenue of $4.60 billion, reflecting a 1.7% revenue growth trajectory. This outlook falls short of the LSEG consensus, which forecasted adjusted earnings of $4.71 per share and revenue of $4.65 billion. Prior to the recent surge, Zoom’s shares had experienced a 12% decline since the beginning of the year, while the S&P 500 stock index had seen a 6% increase over the same period. The company’s executives are set to engage in discussions with analysts through a conference call following the announcement.
Zoom’s latest financial results reveal a mixed bag of outcomes, with positive earnings per share and revenue figures overshadowed by tepid revenue growth and market challenges. The company’s ability to navigate the post-pandemic landscape and sustain its market position will be closely monitored as it strives to meet evolving investor expectations.
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