The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was on form in 2024 and recorded a total return of approximately 11.2% over the 12 months.
We looked at the best performers on the index here yesterday. Let's now look at the five worst performing ASX 200 shares over the period. They are as follows:
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Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR)
The Liontown Resources share price was the worst performer on the ASX 200 in 2024 with a disappointing 68% decline. Interestingly, this was despite the company successfully transitioning from being a lithium developer to a lithium miner during the year. Though, with lithium prices at rock bottom levels, Liontown Resources arguably couldn't have picked a worse time to start mining the battery making ingredient.
Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SGR)
The Star Entertainment share price wasn't far behind with a 63% decline over the 12 months. Investors were selling the embattled casino and resorts operator's shares after it released its full year results and reported a statutory loss of $1.7 billion for the year. In addition, the company has come under pressure from regulators. This includes the release of the final report in connection with the 2024 Independent Inquiry into The Star, which was undertaken by Adam Bell SC.
Coronado Global Resources Inc (ASX: CRN)
The Coronado Global Resources share price was out of form and sank 57% during the period. This coal miner had a tough year due to the negative impacts of mechanical repairs to the overland conveyor and subsequent rainfall levels at the Curragh Complex. Management revealed that the rainfall levels were more than three times the 10-year monthly average for the area, which forced a production guidance downgrade and higher forecast costs.
Audinate Group Ltd (ASX: AD8)
The Audinate Group share price lost 54% of its value in 2024. This ASX 200 tech share was sold off after it reported a sudden deterioration in its performance. Management blamed this on a number of headwinds. This includes shorter order lead times, increased inventory across the industry, slower clearance of raw material inventories by its manufacturing customers, and softer-than-expected demand from end-users.
Lifestyle Communities Ltd (ASX: LIC)
The Lifestyle Communities share price was sold off and sank 53% during the 12 months. This retirement communities company's shares were under pressure after receiving a lot of negative media attention. In fact, at one stage the company withdrew "all forward-looking guidance it has previously provided is withdrawn due to the difficulty in quantifying the impact the uncertainty caused by recent media coverage might have on future sales and settlements." It would then go on to release its FY 2024 results and report a 25.6% decline in operating profit after tax to $52.9 million.
