Coronavirus Meltdown: Sell These Stocks Now

Coronavirus fears could force stocks like Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd (TSX:TGOD) into an early bankruptcy.

| More on:
Clock pointing towards a 'sell' signal

Image source: Getty Images.

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s premium investing services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn moresdf

Coronavirus fears are rattling the market. While some are predicting a quick rebound, as time goes on, those hopes are being dashed. International experts now worry that social distancing measures may persist through the end of 2020, which could lead to massive layoffs and the shuttering of thousands of small businesses.

Larger companies won’t be spared. Some were hoping to grow exponentially in China. Others are reliant on new funding to stay afloat. The coronavirus is killing global economic activity and tightening credit markets. If a company can’t get cash-flow neutral fast, coronavirus fears will continue to send shares spiraling.

The following Canadian stocks are particularly vulnerable. Even if you don’t own these companies, pay close attention to their weaknesses. Stocks in your portfolio could face the same risks.

Coronavirus fears have crushed China

On December 31, Chinese authorities treated dozens of cases of pneumonia from an unknown cause. By January, Wuhan a city of 11 million, was quarantined. A few weeks later, the World Health Organization declared a global health emergency.

While China has successfully mitigated new cases, the country won’t return to normalcy for many months. Depressed demand from other continents, particularly Europe and North America, will further impact its economy. That’s bad news for Canada Goose Holdings Inc (TSX:GOOS)(NYSE:GOOS).

Canada Goose is best known for selling $1,000 jackets that were originally designed for scientists in Antarctica. The retailer’s stock quadrupled following its 2017 IPO, but shares now trade at IPO levels, as China was supposed to be its biggest long-term growth opportunity. Sales had been growing by more than 50% per year before the pandemic began.

The stock is cheap, trading at 15 times trailing earnings versus a high of 150 times earnings. But if you own stocks like Canada Goose that rely on Asian market growth, you’ll need to be patient.

Credit markets may evaporate

Maxar Technologies (TSX:MAXR)(NYSE:MAXR) was once on top of the world — literally. The aerospace equipment manufacturer is responsible for building satellites and other space-grade components. In 2018, its stock price hit $70, a 250% increase from 2009 levels.

Then the hammer fell. A short-seller report in 2018 accused company executives of using aggressive accounting practices to mask weaknesses in the business. The stock ultimately fell by 90%. A falling equity value has put the spotlight on debt, which currently stands at more than $3 billion versus a market cap of less than $1 billion.

If you own highly indebted companies, be careful. Although interest rates are falling, capital is growing scarce. Companies with low credit ratings will see their financing costs soar or be eliminated entirely.

Early-stage growth is riskier than ever

Big gains can be had through early-stage investing. Taking a risk when others are unwilling can translate into major profits. But when credit is tight, this is a terrible space to have exposure.

Consider Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd (TSX:TGOD), a Canadian pot producer. Cannabis demand remains strong, and demand is expected to grow by billions of dollars through 2030 and beyond.

The problem is that Green Organic is just starting to grow, and it production facilities aren’t expected to reach full-tilt until the end of 2020, potentially 2021.

Early-stage operations have limited inbound cash flow. If financing dries up, there will be no way for Green Organic to convert its infrastructure into sales dollars.

Rapid growth was expected in 2020, but all of that requires more capital. The company has less than $30 million in cash on the books despite burning $200 million in cash last year.

If a company can’t generate and retain free cash flow, think twice about owning shares.

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.

The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Canada Goose Holdings. The Motley Fool recommends MAXAR TECHNOLOGIES LTD. Fool contributor Ryan Vanzo has no position in any stocks mentioned.

More on Coronavirus

little girl in pilot costume playing and dreaming of flying over the sky
Coronavirus

Air Canada Stock: How High Could it go?

AC stock is up 29% in the last six months alone, so should we expect more great things? Or is…

Read more »

eat food
Coronavirus

Goodfood Stock Doubles Within Days: Time to Buy?

Goodfood (TSX:FOOD) stock has surged 125% in the last few weeks, so what happened, and should investors hop back on…

Read more »

stock data
Tech Stocks

If I Could Only Buy 1 Stock Before 2023, This Would Be It

This stock is the one company that really doesn't deserve its ultra-low share price, so I'll definitely pick it up…

Read more »

Aircraft Mechanic checking jet engine of the airplane
Coronavirus

Air Canada Stock Fell 5% in November: Is it a Buy Today?

Air Canada (TSX:AC) stock saw remarkable improvements during its last quarter but still dropped 5% with more recession hints. So,…

Read more »

Airport and plane
Coronavirus

Is Air Canada Stock a Buy Today?

Airlines are on the rebound. Does Air Canada stock deserve to be on your buy list?

Read more »

A patient takes medicine out of a daily pill box.
Coronavirus

Retirees: 2 Healthcare Stocks That Could Help Set You up for Life

Healthcare stocks offer an incredible opportunity for growth for those investors who look to the right stocks, such as these…

Read more »

sad concerned deep in thought
Coronavirus

Here’s Why I Just Bought WELL Health Stock

WELL Health stock (TSX:WELL) may be a healthcare stock and a tech stock, but don't let that keep you from…

Read more »

healthcare pharma
Coronavirus

WELL Stock: The Safe Stock Investors Can’t Afford to Ignore

WELL stock (TSX:WELL) fell 68% from peak to trough, and yet there's no good reason as to why. So now…

Read more »