Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

Why Plug Power Inc.'s Shares Popped Again Today

By Travis Hoium – Mar 4, 2014 at 12:20PM

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

Is this meaningful or just another movement?

Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.

What: Shares of fuel-cell maker Plug Power Inc. (PLUG -2.95%) jumped another 15% today, touching a new 52-week high after being upgraded by an analyst.

So what: Cowen and Co. increased their price target on the stock to $5.50 from $5 and said the recent fuel-cell deal with Wal-Mart could be replicated with other large distributors. The analysts are expecting more such contracts and said the recurring revenue from such deals will be significant.  

Now what: Before going out and buying shares on this analyst note, keep in mind that shares closed yesterday above the $5.50 price target. The company's market cap currently stands at $686.4 million and revenue over the past 12 months was just $24.5 million. There's going to need to be a massive improvement in operations very quickly to justify that valuation, which will keep me out of the stock today.

Travis Hoium has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Premium Investing Services

Invest better with The Motley Fool. Get stock recommendations, portfolio guidance, and more from The Motley Fool's premium services.