HP Inc.’s (HPQ) stock price declined 0.63% to $29.81 on Friday January 12th, 2024, as the company’s shares underperformed compared to competitors amidst a mixed day of trading on Wall Street. While the S&P 500 managed a slight 0.08% gain to close at 4,783.83, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.31% to finish the day at 37,592.98.
Friday marked the second straight day of losses for HP Inc.’s stock. Shares have pulled back since reaching a 52-week high of $33.90 on July 12th, 2023 and now sit $4.09 below that peak. The stock has been struggling to maintain upward momentum after a difficult 2022 where broader tech industry weakness weighed on performance.
Compared to major competitors in the computer and consumer electronics space, HP lagged on Friday. Apple (AAPL) saw a 0.18% gain to end at $185.92 per share. Meanwhile, Dell Technologies (DELL) declined only 0.50% to close at $79.31. HP has faced stiff competition from these giants in areas like PCs and laptops.
From a technical perspective, trading volume for HPQ was lower than average on Friday. Only 6.7 million shares changed hands compared to the 50-day average volume of 8.8 million. This potentially signals reduced interest from shorter-term traders and investors.
Looking ahead, HP will aim to regain its footing in 2023 after struggling last year. The company could benefit if macroeconomic headwinds start to subside and demand stabilizes in key segments like personal systems. However, the competitive landscape remains intense with major players like Apple and Dell maintaining significant market share. HP’s management team faces an uphill battle to reinvigorate growth and profitability.
Overall, Friday’s stock performance reflects HP’s challenges in gaining bullish momentum within the current economic environment. While broader indices were mixed, competitors like Apple held up better. HP will need to execute on its long-term strategy and differentiate its products and services in order to reassure investors going forward. The company has potential but must prove itself against entrenched rivals.
