Byrna Technologies Stock Skyrockets 143% YTD: Should You Jump Onboard?

Byrna Technologies Inc. BYRN has seen a remarkable rise in its stock price, soaring 142.6% this year compared to the broader industry’s 32.4% growth.This contrasts sharply with the performance of other small-cap service providers like FuelCell Energy FCEL, down 79.2%, and Ballard Power Systems BLDP, which saw a 55.6% decline during the same period.

 

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Key drivers behind Byrna’s success include high-profile celebrity endorsements, expanded retail presence, and strategic partnerships domestically and internationally.

With such strong momentum, many investors might be experiencing a fear of missing out (FOMO). Let’s explore if Byrna’s current level still presents a buying opportunity.

Byrna Accelerates Growth Through Endorsements and Expansion

Byrna has achieved high brand visibility through a successful celebrity endorsement program and extensive media coverage. In the third quarter of fiscal 2024, the company realized an impressive 5X return on ad spend through celebrity endorsements, even as advertising expenses rose from $0.8 million monthly in the second quarter to $1.0 million.

Increased media exposure has helped normalize less-lethal solutions, significantly boosting demand from both consumers and law enforcement. This drove a notable 194% year-over-year sales growth for the quarter, while net income improved from a loss of $4.1 million in the previous year to a profit of $1.0 million, an impressive $5.1 million increase.

Looking ahead, Byrna is well-positioned for growth with several strategic initiatives. The company is ramping up production to meet increasing demand and is preparing to launch its new Compact Launcher in mid-2025. Additionally, Byrna is expanding its retail presence with more company-owned stores and strengthening its footprint in Latin America through partnerships with law enforcement.

BYRN recently extended its reach into Mexico by collaborating with Mexico’s Secretaría de Trabajo y Previsión Social to establish a federally certified training program allowing civilians to legally carry Byrna devices. Furthermore, the company is enhancing its supply chain by shifting ammunition production domestically, which is expected to improve product margins. These initiatives, alongside continued marketing investment, are anticipated to drive growth through 2025 and beyond, positioning Byrna for sustained success.

BYRN Has Strong liquidly, Great Return on Equity

Byrna’s return on equity (ROE) of 10.4% at the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2024, outperforming the industry average of 9.1%, signals stronger profitability and efficient use of shareholders' equity. These suggest that the company is generating more profit relative to each dollar of equity than its industry peers, implying effective management and an edge in capital utilization. A higher ROE generally aligns with higher shareholder returns and is indicative of the potential for continued growth, thus enhancing investor confidence.

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Byrna’s liquidity position is also strong, with a current ratio of 3.51 at the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2024 compared to the industry’s 0.92. Such a robust liquidity position offers financial flexibility, allowing the company to invest in growth opportunities or manage unforeseen expenses without the immediate need for additional financing. This stability reinforces investors’ confidence in Byrna’s financial health and resilience, supporting sustainable growth and potentially higher returns.

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BYRN’s Promising Fundamentals

Byrna is prioritizing growth investments, which is leading to short-term declines in profitability. However, the company remains debt-free, highly profitable, and continues to demonstrate strong revenue growth and promising market potential.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for BYRN’s fiscal 2024 earnings is pegged at 17 cents, suggesting an impressive 194.4% increase from the year-ago level. Earnings in 2025 are projected to increase by 14.7% year over year. The company's sales are expected to grow 92% in fiscal 2024 and 17.7% in fiscal 2025.

This positive outlook is reinforced by upward estimate revisions. In the past 30 days, one estimate for fiscal 2024 earnings has been revised upward, with no downward revisions. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2024 earnings has increased 100% during this period. Two estimates for fiscal 2025 earnings have been revised north, with no southward revisions. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings has increased 54.5% during this period.

BYRN is a Buy

BYRN represents a compelling growth investment with its strong brand momentum and expanding market presence. The company’s strategic use of celebrity endorsements and extensive media coverage has bolstered its visibility, leading to heightened demand for its innovative, less-lethal solutions. Byrna’s focus on expanding its product lineup and strengthening partnerships both domestically and internationally showcases a forward-looking approach that aligns with market trends, positioning it well for sustained growth.

Additionally, Byrna’s strong liquidity and prudent management of resources reflect a solid foundation, allowing it to pursue growth initiatives confidently. With plans to further expand its retail footprint, enhance its supply chain, and launch new products, the company is well-prepared to capitalize on rising demand. For investors seeking a stock with high growth potential and strategic vision, Byrna Technologies stands out as a Buy, with strong indicators of continued success.

BYRN currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

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