Over the last 12 months the All Ordinaries (Index: ^AXAO) (ASX: XAO) has put on a solid gain of approximately 10.7% excluding dividends.
While that is undoubtedly a strong gain, it pales in comparison to some being made on the index during the period.
Three highlights are listed below:
The Afterpay Touch Group Ltd (ASX: APT) share price has risen a massive 395% since this time last year. As well as being impressed with its remarkable growth in the Australian market, investors have been fighting to get hold of shares due to its U.S. expansion. With some estimating that Afterpay Touch's market opportunity in the U.S. is upwards of 20x greater than in Australia, it could be a real game-changer for the company if it can replicate its domestic success there. In its most recent update the company revealed that approximately 10% of all online shopping purchases in Australia now go through its buy now, pay later platform. While it is a high risk investment, if the company can build on its strong start in the U.S. then it could one day prove to be cheap at these levels.
The Bubs Australia Ltd (ASX: BUB) share price has pushed a sizeable 165% higher over the last 12 months. Investors have been buying shares on the belief that Bubs could be the next star of the infant formula industry. While I think that its goat milk offering is unique and I've been impressed with the progress it has made in respect to distribution agreements at home and in China, I've yet to see anything in its sales growth to indicate that it will be the next A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M). But I'll be watching closely in FY 2019 for any signs that sales are ramping up.
The Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) share price has surged 168% higher since this time last year. This fast-fashion jewellery retailer has really caught the eye over the last 12 months thanks to its stellar sales growth. While the company has benefited from a successful expansion internationally, this sales growth has also been underpinned by strong increases in same store sales. While I think its shares are looking fully valued now, like Afterpay Touch, if its U.S. expansion is a success there could be significant growth ahead.
