Opinion: The No. 1 Growth Stock to Buy in April

Here’s why Shopify (TSX:SHOP) remains the number one top growth stock long-term investors may want to consider right now.

| More on:

Shopify (TSX:SHOP) is one of the largest e-commerce platform providers in the world and one of the highest growth stocks on the Toronto Stock Exchange. Since its lows in 2022, Shopify has witnessed remarkable growth, tripling in value as the company’s revenue and income surged to much higher levels.

Of course, questions remain as to whether this growth can continue. Here’s why I remain bullish on Shopify from here.

Growth-based business model

Shopify broadly benefits from growth trends tied to continued e-commerce activity over time. The company provides an easy-to-use e-commerce platform for small- and medium-sized businesses to set up online shops. Charging transaction fees, Shopify benefits directly from its network effects over time, with earnings and cash flow growth largely in line with the growing size of its ecosystem.

For those bullish on the impressive uptrend we’ve seen in e-commerce continuing for years to come, Shopify remains an obvious choice in this current environment. The company’s software-as-a-service business model is attractive, providing the kind of cash flow stability that many investors want to see. Accordingly, as Shopify continues to expand into new markets, its upside potential is exponential over time.

Although the stock has come down from its post-pandemic high, it’s clear that the benchmarks Shopify is now being assessed against are more reasonable. This is a company that looks well-positioned to manage its way through future market cycles. This is why Shopify remains the best high-growth stock in the Canadian market, and one so many continue to bet on it.

Strong financials promote increased interest from growth investors

Shopify’s recent financial results, which I’ve highlighted in the past, are impressive. The company’s total revenue of $7.1 billion in 2023 was 26% higher year over year. That kind of growth is hard to come by, particularly for a company of this size. As Shopify continues to adopt and integrate additional artificial intelligence (AI) features into its model, some analysts are projecting growth rates that could accelerate over time.

I think such a view is prudent. The company’s recent surge is tied to fundamental growth catalysts that are real and could provide sticky network effects over time. If that’s truly the case, this is a stock that could have plenty of upside from current levels.

Why this is a top growth stock to buy

As the world continues to evolve, the need for e-commerce solutions is only going to increase. Those bullish on the future of commerce continue to focus on this sector for that reason. Shopify remains one of the best pure-play ways to play this space, in my view. If the company can continue to gain market share against giants in this sector, the future e-commerce-driven world could benefit Shopify investors to an outsized degree.

The company’s focus on emerging markets and expanding into new markets should drive considerable improvements in the coming quarters. Additionally, I think many investors are sleeping on the company’s potential when it comes to AI. If there’s one space AI can transform, it’s this one. And Shopify is making the right investments in that regard.

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Chris MacDonald has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Shopify. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Investing

exchange traded funds
Dividend Stocks

1 Top High-Yield Dividend ETF to Buy to Generate Passive Income

BMO Canadian Dividend ETF (TSX:ZDV) is a great income ETF for those seeking a safe but generous passive-income boost.

Read more »

bulb idea thinking
Stocks for Beginners

2 No-Brainer Stocks to Buy With Less Than $1,000

There are some stocks that are risky to even consider, but not these two! Consider these stocks if you want…

Read more »

space ship model takes off
Investing

These 2 Small-cap Stocks Offer Massive Return Potential

If you invest exclusively in blue chips and large caps, you may miss out on some fantastic growth opportunities that…

Read more »

coins jump into piggy bank
Investing

Could This Undervalued Canadian Stock Be Your Ticket to Millionaire Status?

Here's why Manulife Financial (TSX:MFC) certainly looks like an undervalued Canadian stock worth buying right now for long-term investors.

Read more »

ways to boost income
Dividend Stocks

TFSA Investors: 3 Dividend Stocks to Buy and Hold Forever

These dividend stocks are likely to consistently increase their dividends, making them attractive investment for your TFSA portfolio.

Read more »

open vault at bank
Investing

2 Defence Stocks That Canadian Investors Should Keep an Eye on in November

Canadians should keep an eye on two TSX stocks that could rise higher as global defence demand rises.

Read more »

how to save money
Dividend Stocks

Passive-Income Seekers: Invest $10,000 for $59.75 Monthly Income

Passive-income seekers can transform their money into monthly cash flow streams through dividend investing.

Read more »

happy woman throws cash
Dividend Stocks

2 Canadian Dividend Stars Set for Strong Returns

You can add these two fundamentally strong Canadian dividend stocks to your portfolio now and expect steady income and strong…

Read more »