Circle’s Q3 results show resilience despite rate cut fears and competition from ‘frenemies,’ claims Bernstein
Summary
Bernstein analysts maintain a positive long-term thesis for Circle, citing robust Q3 earnings that surpassed estimates, with $740 million in revenue and $166 million in adjusted EBITDA. They argue that recent stock weakness stems from misplaced fears about interest-rate cuts and competitive pressures, not structural deterioration. Key strengths noted include sustained USDC growth, improving profitability (adjusted EBITDA margin expanded to 57%), and the development of the Arc Layer 1 blockchain, which may feature a native token. Bernstein believes USDC's liquidity advantage remains a significant edge against competitors like Stripe, and they remain bullish, maintaining an 'outperform' rating and a $230 price target.
(Source:The Block)