Block, Inc. (SQ), formerly known as Square, Inc., narrates an extraordinary tale of transformation, disruption, and strategic agility, transitioning from a simple payment service to a comprehensive financial ecosystem for individuals and businesses alike.
Its journey through the stock market, characterized by notable yearly shifts, highlights Block’s capacity to navigate and flourish within the dynamic and often unpredictable landscape of fintech innovation.
Annual Returns of Block Stock (SQ)
| Year | Beginning | Ending | Gain/Loss | S&P 500 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $64.64 | $77.35 | 19.66% | 24.73% |
| 2022 | $164.03 | $62.84 | -61.69% | -19.95% |
| 2021 | $221.16 | $161.51 | -26.97% | 28.79% |
| 2020 | $63.83 | $217.64 | 240.97% | 15.29% |
| 2019 | $57.20 | $62.56 | 9.37% | 28.71% |
| 2018 | $36.17 | $56.09 | 55.07% | -7.01% |
| 2017 | $13.81 | $34.67 | 151.05% | 18.42% |
| 2016 | $12.16 | $13.63 | 12.09% | 11.24% |
| 2015 | $13.07 | $13.09 | 0.15% | -0.69% |
The table above displays the SQ Yearly Return Rate, highlighting Block’s annual stock performance on a split-adjusted basis. This data does not include dividends, stock spin-offs, taxes, or transaction commissions.
Block (SQ) Stock History
The Early Stages (2015)
In 2015, Block (then known as Square) was just beginning to make its mark on the financial technology sector. The stock showed a modest gain, closing the year at $13.09, slightly up from its opening at $13.07.
This marginal increase of 0.15% was a humble start, contrasting against a backdrop of a slight decline in the S&P 500, which fell by -0.69%. This period marked the foundational steps of Block in establishing itself in the competitive market landscape.
Building Momentum (2016)
The year 2016 witnessed a significant step forward for Block, with the stock price increasing from $12.16 to $13.63, marking a 12.09% gain. This performance was in harmony with the overall market trend, as reflected by the S&P 500’s gain of 11.24%. Block’s growth this year signaled the beginning of its journey towards becoming a pivotal player in the fintech space.
Breakthrough Growth (2017)
2017 was a breakthrough year for Block, showcasing an impressive growth of 151.05%, with the stock price soaring from $13.81 to $34.67. This remarkable performance far outpaced the S&P 500’s growth of 18.42%, highlighting Block’s burgeoning potential and its increasing significance within the financial technology industry.
Continued Expansion (2018)
Continuing its upward trajectory, Block’s stock price grew by 55.07% in 2018, ending the year at $56.09, up from $36.17. This growth occurred despite the S&P 500 experiencing a decline of -7.01%, underscoring Block’s resilience and its ability to capitalize on its innovative platforms and services.
Steady Growth Amidst Volatility (2019)
In 2019, Block demonstrated resilience amidst market fluctuations, with its stock price increasing by 9.37% to close at $62.56, up from $57.20. Although this growth was modest compared to the explosive gains in some previous years, it indicated Block’s capacity to maintain stability and navigate through a volatile market environment.
Exceptional Performance (2020)
The year 2020 marked an exceptional phase for Block, with the stock price skyrocketing by 240.97%, closing at $217.64 from an opening of $63.83. This period reflected Block’s exceptional ability to adapt and thrive, significantly outperforming the S&P 500’s gain of 15.29%, amidst a year marked by global economic challenges.
A Year of Correction (2021)
Following its meteoric rise in 2020, Block faced a year of correction in 2021, with its stock price declining by -26.97% to close at $161.51. Despite this setback, the company’s performance needs to be viewed within the context of its rapid growth in the previous year.
Facing Challenges (2022)
The year 2022 proved to be challenging for Block, with a significant decrease of -61.69% in its stock price, ending the year at $62.84. This decline was amidst a broader market downturn, with the S&P 500 falling by -19.95%, reflecting the adverse impacts of macroeconomic factors and market volatility on Block’s performance.
Recovery and Resilience (2023)
In 2023, Block exhibited a promising path to recovery, with its stock price appreciating by 19.66% to end the year at $77.35. While this uptick marked a significant rebound from the previous year’s challenges, it still slightly underperformed compared to the S&P 500’s gain of 24.73%.
This year highlighted Block’s ongoing efforts to regain its footing and adapt to market shifts. Despite the lag behind the broader market’s performance, the company’s resilience and ability to recover in a rapidly changing financial landscape remain evident.