Upwork has seen its shares nearly halve amid a broad AI-driven market correction, despite previously strong momentum from its 2025 investor day. UPWK's 2026 revenue guidance of $835–$850 million (6%–8% growth) is well below its prior 13%–15% CAGR target, raising execution risk. Valuation is compelling: UPWK trades at just 5.4x EV/FY26 adjusted EBITDA, and a $300 million buyback (~20% of market cap) is underway.
Here at Zacks, our focus is on the proven Zacks Rank system, which emphasizes earnings estimates and estimate revisions to find great stocks. Nevertheless, we are always paying attention to the latest value, growth, and momentum trends to underscore strong picks.
Upwork (UPWK) stock experienced a decline of 19% over the last day and is presently priced at $15.21. Our multi-factor analysis indicates it might be the right time to purchase additional shares of UPWK stock.
Upwork Inc. is upgraded to a Buy after a sharp post-earnings selloff, despite mixed results and weak forward guidance. UPWK stock's valuation is compelling, with a P/E below 20 and price/sales under 3, supported by solid financial health and record revenues. AI-driven GSV grew 50% YoY, but active clients fell 6%; management is proactively navigating AI's dual threat and opportunity.
Upwork Inc. (UPWK) Q4 2025 Earnings Call Transcript
Upwork (UPWK) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.12 per share, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.23 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.3 per share a year ago.
Upwork is upgraded to "Strong Buy," leveraging AI integration and a clear business transformation strategy. UPWK targets 13%-15% revenue CAGR and >20% adjusted EBITDA CAGR through FY28, signaling robust medium-term growth. The recent investor day outlined FY28 goals: $1.16 billion revenue, $331 million adjusted EBITDA, and 29% margin, highlighting significant scaling potential.
Traders might fondly remember the meme-stock era of 2021, but the companies involved have a more mixed response. Most (if not all) meme stocks have never come close to their 2021 highs and currently reside in the market's dustbin.
Upwork Inc. (UPWK) Presents at UBS Global Technology and AI Conference 2025 Transcript
Upwork Inc. ( UPWK ) Analyst/Investor Day November 18, 2025 9:00 AM EST Company Participants Erica Gessert - CFO & Interim Principal Accounting Officer Hayden Brown - President, CEO & Director Dave Bottoms - General Manager of Marketplace Peter Sanborn - Vice President of Strategy, Corporate Development & Partnerships Andrew Rabinovich - VP, CTO, Head of AI & Machine Learning and Member of Economic Advisory Council Ernesto Lamaina Conference Call Participants Gabriel Richman Philip Rasori Cory Hymel Conversation Operator Our program is now beginning. Please welcome on stage, Erica Gessert.
Upwork's (UPWK) path to profitability is supported by declining costs, reduced SBC, and the integration of AI tools to drive operational efficiency. Valuation remains attractive based on DCF and exit multiples, though risks include labor market softness and competition from large tech firms. UPWK holds a leading position in a market with significant network effects.
Upwork stands out as a capital-light, global freelancer platform with a strong market position and significant insider ownership. UPWK has recently optimized for profitability, delivering high returns on capital, robust gross margins, and now trades at an undemanding valuation near 10x earnings. The business is resilient to AI disruption, adapting to new demand trends and leveraging AI to enhance platform efficiency and expand service offerings.