SEMrush Holdings’ stock faced a brutal week as two major investment banks slashed their price targets, citing disappointing quarterly results. The SEO software specialist reported its first-ever decline in paying customers, with annual recurring revenue (ARR) missing estimates and earnings per share sinking to -$0.04 versus an expected $0.08 profit. While revenue grew 20% to $108.9 million—slightly above forecasts—and gross margins remained strong at 82%, investors focused on the profitability slump. Management further dampened sentiment by cutting full-year guidance by $6 million, citing weaker performance in a smaller business segment and rising paid-search costs.
Strategic Shift Amid Market Pressures
The company is pivoting toward AI and enterprise solutions, aiming to generate over $50 million in recurring revenue from these segments by year-end. A $150 million stock buyback program was announced, though analysts questioned its impact on growth investments. Despite maintaining "Buy" ratings, experts expressed concern over the timing of guidance cuts, as SEMrush navigates an evolving search-engine landscape disrupted by AI. The stock, now near a 52-week low at $7.29, has plummeted 47% in six months, reflecting broader skepticism about its near-term recovery.
