How's MELI Using Argentina's Economic Recovery to Fuel its Growth?

Core Insights - MercadoLibre (MELI) is optimistic about Argentina's economic recovery, with analysts forecasting strong GDP growth in 2025 and 2026 as reforms take effect [1] - The company is strategically expanding its operations in Argentina, focusing on cross-border trade and enhancing its marketplace, particularly in the supermarket category [2] - MELI's financial arm, Mercado Pago, plans to apply for a banking license to establish the largest digital bank in Argentina and will start issuing credit cards in the second half of the year [3] Financial Performance - Argentina's revenues for MELI increased from $615 million (14.2% of total revenues) in Q1 2024 to $1.38 billion (23.3% of total revenues) in Q1 2025, more than doubling year-over-year [4] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter 2025 Argentina revenues is projected at $1.46 billion [4] Competitive Landscape - MercadoLibre faces competition from Amazon, which has introduced flat-rate and free shipping to Argentina, and DLocal, which plans to invest up to $100 million in the country [5][6] Stock Performance and Valuation - MELI shares have gained 40.8% year-to-date, outperforming the Zacks Internet-Commerce industry and the Zacks Retail-Wholesale sector [7] - The stock is currently trading at a forward 12-month Price/Sales ratio of 3.87X, compared to the industry's 2.17X [10] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter 2025 earnings is $12.01 per share, indicating a 14.60% year-over-year growth [12]