Novonix (ASX:NVX) shares rocketed 600% this year. Now what?

This battery industry stock has been a star performer on the ASX in 2021. Is it too late to ride the wave for 2022?

| More on:
A green fully charged battery symbol surrounded by green charge lights representing the surging Vulcan share price today

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Those lucky enough to have Novonix Ltd (ASX: NVX) shares since the start of the year would have had a broad smile on their face eating their Christmas turkey.

The stock price for the battery materials company has rocketed 594% since the fireworks went off at the start of January.

So now the dilemma is what to do with a stellar performer as we head into the new year.

If you have it, do you hold onto it or take the profits? If you don't have it, is it too late to buy in or has the ship sailed?

The team at Marcus Today had some thoughts.

No profit, not much revenue (yet)

Firstly, it must be noted that Novonix is a polarising stock.

The company is a long way from turning a profit, and doesn't yet make a huge amount of revenue — not much more than $5 million — considering its valuation.

"A profit isn't expected to be achieved for a few years so it will be incredibly announcement driven," read the memo from Marcus Today.

"Deals with EV [electric vehicle] and tech companies to shore up supply chains likely to drive performance but that will come in dribs and drabs."

Massive unexplained fall in share price

Secondly, despite this year's spectacular rise, the share price has fallen almost 28% this month. 

This worries the team at Marcus Today.

"An unexplained 34% fall [in early December] should be a bit of a red flag," the memo stated.

"The move has taken some of the froth off the top, which is putting it back in the focus of 'bargain hunters'. [But] unclear if it is a bargain at current levels given the eye-watering valuation at 723x revenue."

We need to see more runs on the board

A little bit more tangible progress would be needed before the Marcus Today team would buy in.

It noted Novonix does have some heavy hitters on its board, which "looks like it has some leverage in Washington [DC]".

"Favourable legislative outcomes from the US are another possible tailwind," the memo read. 

"A period of share price consolidation around the 900c level, progress on its production capacity and a deal or two would make it look more appealing."

So for now, Marcus Today would not get involved, although if you already own Novonix shares you'd want to hold onto them.

"The near-term picture doesn't offer that much of a compelling reason to get involved," the team stated.

"Demand for its products are expected to gain momentum but until there are more cash flows, it is hard to value. No obvious reason to sell if you have decided to hold. HOLD."

Motley Fool contributor Tony Yoo has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Broker Notes

A group of people push and shove through the doors of a store, trying to beat the crowd.
Broker Notes

2 ASX shares highly recommended to buy: Experts

Are these two stocks the best buys on the ASX?

Read more »

Smiling couple sitting on a couch with laptops fist pump each other.
Broker Notes

These ASX 200 shares could rise 20% to 55%

Brokers have good things to say about these shares.

Read more »

A little girl is about to launch down the slide with a blue sky and white clouds in the sky behind her.
Broker Notes

BHP vs. Fortescue shares: Goldman Sachs says 1 will rip and 1 will dip

Top broker Goldman Sachs upgraded its 12-month share price forecasts for BHP and Fortescue shares this week.

Read more »

Buy, hold, and sell ratings written on signs on a wooden pole.
Broker Notes

Brokers rate these 3 ASX shares as buys in January

These ASX shares have an exciting outlook according to experts.

Read more »

A young man sits at his desk working on his laptop with a big smile on his face.
Broker Notes

Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

Here's why brokers are feeling bullish about these three shares this week.

Read more »

busy trader on the phone in front of board depicting asx share price risers and fallers
Resources Shares

Brokers issue new price targets on soaring ASX 200 mining shares

ASX 200 mining shares BHP, PLS Group, South32, and many others hit multi-year highs this week.

Read more »

A man holding a cup of coffee puts his thumb up and smiles while at laptop.
Broker Notes

Why Bell Potter just upgraded this smashing ASX 200 stock

After rising over 100% in 12 months, Bell Potter believes there is more to come.

Read more »

A man in his 30s with a clipped beard sits at his laptop on a desk with one finger to the side of his face and his chin resting on his thumb as he looks concerned while staring at his computer screen.
Broker Notes

Buy, hold, sell: Catalyst Metals, NRW, and Paladin Energy shares

Let's see what analysts are saying about these ASX 200 shares.

Read more »