Core Viewpoint - Duolingo Inc (NASDAQ:DUOL) reported strong financial results for the third quarter, but the performance fell short of analyst expectations, leading to a significant drop in stock price, which may present a contrarian investment opportunity [1][4]. Financial Performance - Duolingo's third-quarter revenue reached $271.7 million, exceeding the consensus estimate of $260.33 million, and representing a 41% year-over-year increase [2]. - Daily active users increased by 36% to 50.2 million, while monthly active users grew by 20% to 135.3 million [2]. Analyst Expectations - Analysts had projected daily active users to be 51.2 million and monthly users to reach 137.4 million, indicating that the actual figures did not meet expectations [3]. - Concerns were raised regarding the time it may take for the financial benefits of new AI-backed features to materialize [3]. Stock Performance - Following the earnings report, DUOL stock experienced a decline of over 39%, with a year-to-date decrease of 40% [4]. - The stock is currently viewed as heavily covered due to its significant drop, leading some analysts to argue that it represents good value [6]. Technical Analysis - Technical analysts suggest that DUOL stock has reached a support line, indicating a potential buying opportunity [6]. - The stock is in a 4-6-D formation, with four weeks of gains followed by six weeks of losses, suggesting a downward trend [12]. Price Projections - Using a quantitative analysis approach, the forward 10-week median returns for DUOL stock are projected to range between $187.50 and $207.50, with price clustering expected around $198 [11]. - The analysis indicates a potential price clustering around $208, suggesting a 5.05% positive delta in density dynamics [13]. Options Strategy - A suggested options strategy is the 200/210 bull call spread expiring on December 19, which could yield a maximum payout of nearly 144% if DUOL stock rises above the $210 strike price [17]. - The breakeven price for this strategy is set at $204.10, which is considered a realistic target under current market conditions [18].
Options Corner: Duolingo's Post-Earnings Collapse Offers An Enticing Contrarian Gamble - Duolingo (NASDAQ:DUOL)