Companies

Speculating on Future Stock Splits: Costco and MercadoLibre

Published June 10, 2024

Following the trend of notable stock splits in June, with Nvidia and Chipotle Mexican Grill recently undergoing significant stock splits, there's a buzz around which companies could be next in line. Stock splits can indicate a company's growth and further potential, making their shares more accessible and potentially more attractive to investors. Costco Wholesale and MercadoLibre are two such companies that investors are eyeing for possible upcoming stock splits.

Costco: A Model of Consistent Value Creation

Costco runs on a membership model that's proven to be resilient, fostering steady sales growth and solid profits. This retailer stands out by keeping gross margins low, ensuring low prices for members while generating most of its net income from membership fees. With a less saturated market presence and plans for international expansion, particularly in China, as well as the potential for a membership fee increase, Costco continues to offer promising growth prospects. With the stock's valuation reaching new heights and no stock split for nearly a quarter-century, there's rising anticipation that Costco might opt for a split to enhance shareholder value.

MercadoLibre: Expansive Growth Prospects

Latin America's e-commerce titan, MercadoLibre, mirrors early Amazon's promise, having already rewarded investors with a steep rise in stock value since its IPO. Despite never having a stock split, MercadoLibre's growth narrative suggests that it could be a strong candidate for a split. The company maintains vigorous sales growth in its e-commerce segment while its fintech vertical shows even more rapid expansion, now venturing into full-service digital banking in Mexico. MercadoLibre's upward trajectory in stock price and continued expansion make a split an increasingly relevant consideration for its management.

Investing Beyond the Split

Although stock splits tend to attract increased attention and can lead to a rise in share price, investors are reminded that the intrinsic value and long-term outlook of a company are what truly matter. Considering a stock for its fundamental performance and potential should be the driving force behind investment decisions, regardless of whether a split is forthcoming.

Stocks, Investing, Growth