Latest news with #LightspeedCommerce
Fibre2Fashion
7 hours ago
- Business
- Fibre2Fashion
92% respondents in North America intentional with purchases: Report
About 92 per cent of respondents consider themselves at least somewhat intentional with their purchases, while 40 per cent say they are very intentional, revealed new data from Lightspeed Commerce's survey of 2,000 consumers across the US and Canada. Today's shoppers aren't just buying products—they're also buying into values. Nearly half (45 per cent) say brand values will play a bigger role in future purchases, signalling a clear shift toward mindful, purpose-driven consumption—what Lightspeed calls Valuespending. While price (78 per cent) and quality (67 per cent) remain key priorities, more consumers (62 per cent) now say it's important that their purchases align with their personal values or identity. A Lightspeed Commerce survey has revealed that 92 per cent of North American consumers shop intentionally, with 40 per cent being highly intentional. Values like sustainability, identity, and national pride now influence 62 per cent of shoppers, especially Gen Z. Social media drives brand discovery, while Canadians show stronger local loyalty. 'Consumers today are balancing cost with conscience,' said Dax Dasilva, CEO and founder of Lightspeed . 'It's not always about the lowest price—it's about choosing brands that reflect their values. And when those values align, loyalty can follow more easily. This new era of intentional spending—Valuespending—is reshaping retail and pushing businesses to be more transparent and authentic.' For 32 per cent of shoppers who report making values-based buying decisions, this is a new behaviour. Driving this shift are a stronger belief that their spending has more impact than before (50 per cent), a sense of living in a more divided world (45 per cent), and influence from social media (23 per cent), as per the survey. Younger shoppers are leading the movement. An impressive 96 per cent of Gen Z consumers say they shop intentionally, with 66 per cent noting that it's important their purchases reflect their values. For this cohort, sustainability (37 per cent), national pride (29 per cent), and cultural alignment (26 per cent) top the list of decision drivers. More than half (51 per cent) say their most recent purchases were made with thought and intention Social media plays a major role—61 per cent of Gen Z discover value-aligned brands online, far more than other generations. Notably, 32 per cent of Gen Z shoppers say they fear being judged for buying from the 'wrong' brands—highlighting a generational mix of purpose and peer pressure reshaping the retail space. Canadian consumers are taking principled spending even further. While just 16 per cent of US respondents say they've made purchases in the past six months based on local or national campaigns like 'Buy American,' that number jumps to 38 per cent in Canada. Similarly, 45 per cent of Canadian consumers say supporting local businesses best reflects their values, compared to 36 per cent of US shoppers. This trend points to a growing sense of national alignment at the checkout—especially in the context of trade tensions. 'These insights show us that consumer expectations are evolving,' Dasilva added. 'From sustainability to social impact, the brands that listen, adapt, and 'walk the talk' can thrive in this age of Valuespending.' Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RR)
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Best Stock to Buy Right Now: Shopify vs Lightspeed?
Written by Brian Paradza, CFA at The Motley Fool Canada Canadian tech investors hunting for growth in June may find themselves weighing two prominent TSX stocks: the e-commerce giant Shopify (TSX:SHOP) and the beaten-down retail software specialist Lightspeed Commerce (TSX:LSPD). Both had their struggles, one has recovered substantially, and they offer distinct paths to potential returns. However, their risk profiles and current trajectories couldn't be more different. Let's break down which growth stock might be the better fit for your portfolio today. Shopify isn't just an online store builder anymore; it has evolved into a global commerce operating system. Its latest quarterly results (Q1 2025) reinforced its strength: revenue surged 27% year-over-year to US$2.4 billion, gross merchandise volume (GMV) grew 23%, and its free cash flow margin hit a healthy 15%. Crucially, its Payments platform now operates in 39 countries after a massive expansion, achieving 64% penetration of its GMV. Shopify's key advantage is its proven resilience and profitability. It generates significant, self-sustaining cash flow. Operating margins expanded to 14.8% over the past 12 months, up dramatically from 3.7% in 2023. Management emphasizes agility – reacting swiftly to challenges like new tariffs by rolling out features like localized buying filters and artificial intelligence (AI) powered duty calculators (' in days or weeks. This execution speed, combined with a diverse merchant base spanning tiny startups to well-established retail giants, provides stability. However, quality comes at a price. Shopify stock trades at a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio near 75 and a forward enterprise-value-to-earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EV/EBITDA) multiple of 67.3. You are paying handsomely for this premium growth and stability. While Shopify's growth rate is impressive (targeting mid-20% revenue growth for the second quarter), the large-cap stock's growth rate is naturally slowing from its hyper-growth past. Trade conflicts and economic slowdowns remain potential headwinds. Lightspeed presents a stark contrast. Once a high-flyer, its stock sits at a painful 90% below its all-time highs. Investor sentiment remains low following past missteps and a major restructuring. Yet, here lies the potential opportunity. The company is showing signs of a possible turnaround. Revenue growth, while slower than Shopify's, remains respectable at around 18% recently. Management is aggressively repurchasing shares, buying back over 12% of the outstanding stock in the past year at depressed prices – a strong signal it believes the stock is undervalued. Gross margins are expanding due to tighter cost controls and existing customers adopting more modules (increasing average revenue per user). Crucially, Lightspeed is inching towards free-cash-flow break-even and sustained profitability within the next one to two years. Valuation is Lightspeed Commerce stock's compelling argument. Its forward P/E sits at a much cheaper 19.7, and its forward EV/EBITDA is 14.1 – far below Shopify's multiples. If Lightspeed successfully executes its restructuring, demonstrates clear sustainable profits, and rebuilds investor confidence, the stock could see a dramatic re-rating upwards. Triple-digit percentage gains aren't out of the question for patient investors if everything clicks. The catch? Significant execution risk remains. The market is still in 'wait-and-see' mode. Lightspeed needs to consistently hit its targets, prove its restaurant and retail segments are solidly growing post-restructuring, and overcome the stigma attached to its name. It currently lacks Shopify's current cash flow safety net. So, which is the better TSX tech stock to buy now? The answer hinges entirely on one's risk tolerance and investment horizon. Choose Shopify stock if you prioritize stability, proven profitability, strong cash flow, and market leadership, and you're comfortable paying a premium valuation for a company with a clear path to solid and profitable growth. Shopify is the 'sleep-easy' growth stock for the long haul. Otherwise, consider Lightspeed Commerce stock if you have a higher risk tolerance and seek deep value with explosive upside potential, and you believe management can deliver on profitability promises, reignite growth, and win back the market's favour. Looking ahead, Shopify stock may offer a smoother ride on a well-paved highway. Lightspeed offers a potentially thrilling, but much bumpier, path through uncharted territory. For most investors seeking reliable growth in the Canadian tech sector today, Shopify's combination of execution, profitability, and resilience makes it the stronger, albeit pricier, choice. Lightspeed is a fascinating speculative bet for those willing to embrace its higher risk in hopes of a spectacular rebound. Carefully weigh where you fall on that spectrum before hitting the buy button. The post Best Stock to Buy Right Now: Shopify vs Lightspeed? appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada. More reading Made in Canada: 5 Homegrown Stocks Ready for the 'Buy Local' Revolution [PREMIUM PICKS] Market Volatility Toolkit Best Canadian Stocks to Buy in 2025 Beginner Investors: 4 Top Canadian Stocks to Buy for 2025 5 Years From Now, You'll Probably Wish You Grabbed These Stocks Subscribe to Motley Fool Canada on YouTube Fool contributor Brian Paradza has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Shopify. The Motley Fool recommends Lightspeed Commerce. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. 2025
Miami Herald
4 days ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
Gen Z Is Significantly More Afraid of This Trend Than Older Generations
When it comes to their shopping habits, Generation Z is a far different generation than baby boomers, Gen X and even millennials. A survey from Lightspeed Commerce has revealed that 32 percent of Gen Z (born roughly between 1997 and 2012) shoppers are afraid of being judged or "canceled" for supporting the wrong brands-over five times more than boomers (born 1946-1964), at 6 percent. In the aftermath of President Donald Trump's executive order to end "radical and wasteful" government DEI programs, some companies have followed suit, getting rid of DEI initiatives and emphasis on inclusivity in their workplace and in their brands. At the same time, cancel culture is making a pervasive impact on corporations, in the entertainment industry and in consumer behavior. Choosing brands that do not align with a shopper's morals could have an effect in their social circle, especially if they're younger, the research suggests. Gen Z is adjusting shopping habits to make room for the possibility of cancel culture, according to the Lightspeed Commerce report, which surveyed more than 2,000 North American consumers. Nearly all participants in this age group, or 96 percent, said they buy with intention, and 66 percent said their purchases should reflect their personal values. Many values can guide them in supporting specific brands and products, with 37 percent saying they make their brand decisions based on sustainability and environmental impact. Another 29 percent said local pride and nationalism plays a role, while 26 percent said they shop based on cultural or religious alignment. These values could shift power away from corporations and toward the consumer, experts said. "Companies will have to meet higher standards," Kevin Thompson, CEO of 9i Capital Group and host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek. "They'll be held accountable for how they operate, what they sell and how it's made. That kind of pressure could usher in a new wave of conscious capitalism, where profit and responsibility align." A solid chunk of Gen Z consumers, 15 percent, consider a brand CEO's political views when deciding what to buy. Still, price and quality were key priorities as well, at 78 and 67 percent respectively. Michael Ryan, a finance expert and the founder of told Newsweek that Gen Z's brand anxiety comes down to their age, as ages 18 to 35 are peak social performance years. Additionally, this generation faces zero tolerance from some of their peers for "mistake buys" and potentially the digital permanence of their every purchase. "Every tagged photo. Every unboxing video. Every 'like' is peer surveillance," Ryan said. "Company ethics can boost your clout, or get you canceled. Gen Z doesn't just boycott bad brands. They live in fear of being boycotted." However, HR consultant Bryan Driscoll said that Gen Z was "done separating the company from the product" and this age group was "afraid of being complicit" in issues including the exploitation of workers, rather than fearing being canceled. Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek: "Gen Z is more socially conscious than past generations, but not just in how they dress, in what they eat and who they support. Growing up in the social media age, your online persona has to match your real-life values. If there's a disconnect, you'll be called out. Authenticity isn't optional; it's a requirement." Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "When you're younger and more consistently on social media, you're more than likely to care more about your image and the perceptions that come with it. Whether it's an outfit, vehicle, or vacation spot, Gen Z is going to take into account recent social and political viewpoints before purchasing or-if they've already clicked 'Buy'-posting on the sale." Michael Ryan, a finance expert and the founder of told Newsweek: "Will this fade? Yes. Mortgages, family budgets and career climbs force a shift from brand activism to basic needs. Gen Z will learn that sometimes the easiest choice is the most affordable shirt. No ethics audit required." Bryan Driscoll, an HR consultant who specializes in generational differences, told Newsweek: "I don't think Gen Z is afraid of being canceled. I think they're afraid of being complicit. They know corporations exploit workers, dodge taxes and greenwash their way through scandals while boomers cheer them on for turning a profit. This generation is done separating the product from the company behind it. They're not buying your coffee if it comes with union busting. They're not shopping your sale if your CEO's on a yacht while your employees need GoFundMe for medical bills." As Gen Zers are more likely to demand more from the brands they shop from, the shift could mean more corporations are forced to cater more toward the values and morals of their younger consumers. "This is about accountability," Driscoll said. "And that scares older generations because it shifts power away from corporations and toward the collective voice of younger consumers and workers." Related Articles Gen Z Woman Says She Lives With Best Friends-But It's Not What You ThinkDad Didn't Want Gen Z Daughter To Move Out-So He Got To WorkWhy Gen Z Is 'Enormously Attractive' to EmployersMan Reveals One Gen Z Shopping Habit Millennials Just Can't Cope With 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
4 days ago
- Business
- Newsweek
Gen Z Is Significantly More Afraid of This Trend Than Older Generations
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. When it comes to their shopping habits, Generation Z is a far different generation than baby boomers, Gen X and even millennials. A survey from Lightspeed Commerce has revealed that 32 percent of Gen Z (born roughly between 1997 and 2012) shoppers are afraid of being judged or "canceled" for supporting the wrong brands—over five times more than boomers (born 1946-1964), at 6 percent. Why It Matters In the aftermath of President Donald Trump's executive order to end "radical and wasteful" government DEI programs, some companies have followed suit, getting rid of DEI initiatives and emphasis on inclusivity in their workplace and in their brands. At the same time, cancel culture is making a pervasive impact on corporations, in the entertainment industry and in consumer behavior. Choosing brands that do not align with a shopper's morals could have an effect in their social circle, especially if they're younger, the research suggests. People carry shopping bags during Black Friday sales at American Dream Mall on November 29, 2024, in East Rutherford City. People carry shopping bags during Black Friday sales at American Dream Mall on November 29, 2024, in East Rutherford To Know Gen Z is adjusting shopping habits to make room for the possibility of cancel culture, according to the Lightspeed Commerce report, which surveyed more than 2,000 North American consumers. Nearly all participants in this age group, or 96 percent, said they buy with intention, and 66 percent said their purchases should reflect their personal values. Many values can guide them in supporting specific brands and products, with 37 percent saying they make their brand decisions based on sustainability and environmental impact. Another 29 percent said local pride and nationalism plays a role, while 26 percent said they shop based on cultural or religious alignment. These values could shift power away from corporations and toward the consumer, experts said. "Companies will have to meet higher standards," Kevin Thompson, CEO of 9i Capital Group and host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek. "They'll be held accountable for how they operate, what they sell and how it's made. That kind of pressure could usher in a new wave of conscious capitalism, where profit and responsibility align." A solid chunk of Gen Z consumers, 15 percent, consider a brand CEO's political views when deciding what to buy. Still, price and quality were key priorities as well, at 78 and 67 percent respectively. Michael Ryan, a finance expert and the founder of told Newsweek that Gen Z's brand anxiety comes down to their age, as ages 18 to 35 are peak social performance years. Additionally, this generation faces zero tolerance from some of their peers for "mistake buys" and potentially the digital permanence of their every purchase. "Every tagged photo. Every unboxing video. Every 'like' is peer surveillance," Ryan said. "Company ethics can boost your clout, or get you canceled. Gen Z doesn't just boycott bad brands. They live in fear of being boycotted." However, HR consultant Bryan Driscoll said that Gen Z was "done separating the company from the product" and this age group was "afraid of being complicit" in issues including the exploitation of workers, rather than fearing being canceled. What People Are Saying Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek: "Gen Z is more socially conscious than past generations, but not just in how they dress, in what they eat and who they support. Growing up in the social media age, your online persona has to match your real-life values. If there's a disconnect, you'll be called out. Authenticity isn't optional; it's a requirement." Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "When you're younger and more consistently on social media, you're more than likely to care more about your image and the perceptions that come with it. Whether it's an outfit, vehicle, or vacation spot, Gen Z is going to take into account recent social and political viewpoints before purchasing or—if they've already clicked 'Buy'—posting on the sale." Michael Ryan, a finance expert and the founder of told Newsweek: "Will this fade? Yes. Mortgages, family budgets and career climbs force a shift from brand activism to basic needs. Gen Z will learn that sometimes the easiest choice is the most affordable shirt. No ethics audit required." Bryan Driscoll, an HR consultant who specializes in generational differences, told Newsweek: "I don't think Gen Z is afraid of being canceled. I think they're afraid of being complicit. They know corporations exploit workers, dodge taxes and greenwash their way through scandals while boomers cheer them on for turning a profit. This generation is done separating the product from the company behind it. They're not buying your coffee if it comes with union busting. They're not shopping your sale if your CEO's on a yacht while your employees need GoFundMe for medical bills." What Happens Next As Gen Zers are more likely to demand more from the brands they shop from, the shift could mean more corporations are forced to cater more toward the values and morals of their younger consumers. "This is about accountability," Driscoll said. "And that scares older generations because it shifts power away from corporations and toward the collective voice of younger consumers and workers."
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Down 90% From All-Time Highs, Is Lightspeed a Buy Right Now?
Written by Aditya Raghunath at The Motley Fool Canada Valued at a market cap of $2.2 billion, Lightspeed Commerce (TSX:LSPD) is a software company that provides cloud-based commerce platforms and payment solutions for retailers, restaurants, golf courses, and other businesses across multiple countries. Its integrated platform enables omnichannel experiences, connecting suppliers, merchants, and consumers through comprehensive point-of-sale systems, inventory management, analytics, and payment processing. Lightspeed offers specialized solutions, including Lightspeed Restaurant for the hospitality industry, Lightspeed Retail for commerce, and Lightspeed Golf for golf course operators. The platform features multi-location connectivity, employee management, customer loyalty programs, and e-commerce capabilities. Additionally, Lightspeed offers financial services through Lightspeed Payments and Capital, as well as hardware sales, including tablets, printers, and accessories, along with installation services to support business operations. The TSX tech stock went public in 2019 and touched an all-time high in 2021. Today, LSPD stock is down almost 90% from all-time highs. Lightspeed Commerce delivered mixed results in fiscal Q4 (ended in March) while unveiling a comprehensive transformation strategy designed to drive sustainable, profitable growth. The fintech operator achieved its first US$1 billion revenue milestone in fiscal 2025 and delivered US$53.7 million in adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization), an improvement from US$1.3 million in the prior year. Lightspeed has strategically refocused on two core growth engines where it maintains competitive advantages: North American retail and European hospitality. These markets represent a combined US$80 billion total addressable market, with near-term focus on US$21 billion in opportunities. Lightspeed's decision to concentrate efforts reflects strong product-market fit, evidenced by approximately 35% close rates in both segments. Management outlined aggressive expansion plans, including scaling the outbound sales capacity to over 150 representatives and increasing product development spending by 35%. The company targets 10–15% annual customer location growth and 20–25% gross profit growth over the next three years. Consolidated metrics include a 15–18% gross profit CAGR (compounded annual growth rate) and a 35% adjusted EBITDA CAGR through fiscal 2028. Software ARPU (average revenue per user) expansion remains a key driver, growing 11% year-over-year in Q4 through module adoption and pricing optimization. Payment penetration reached 40% in April, with continued upside as new customers must adopt integrated payment solutions. Lightspeed's NuORDER wholesale network, connecting retailers to over 4,000 brands, creates significant competitive differentiation and stickiness. Despite macro headwinds impacting same-store sales, Lightspeed demonstrates operational resilience through its diversified platform approach. It returned over US$130 million to shareholders through share repurchases and announced additional buyback authorization, reflecting confidence in the strategic pivot. Analysts expect Lightspeed's revenue to grow from US$1.1 billion in fiscal 2025 to US$1.6 billion in fiscal 2029. Comparatively, adjusted earnings are forecast to expand from US$0.45 per share to US$1.14 per share in this period. Similar to other asset-light tech stocks, Lightspeed is positioned to benefit from operating leverage. While revenue is forecast to grow by 10.5% annually, earnings growth is estimated at 26%. If LSPD stock is priced at 25 times forward earnings, which is reasonable, it should trade around US$28 in June 2028, indicating an upside potential of over 150% from current levels. With focused market concentration, enhanced product innovation, and disciplined capital allocation, Lightspeed appears well-positioned to capture market share in its targeted segments while improving profitability metrics over the three-year outlook period. The post Down 90% From All-Time Highs, Is Lightspeed a Buy Right Now? appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada. More reading Made in Canada: 5 Homegrown Stocks Ready for the 'Buy Local' Revolution [PREMIUM PICKS] Market Volatility Toolkit Best Canadian Stocks to Buy in 2025 Beginner Investors: 4 Top Canadian Stocks to Buy for 2025 5 Years From Now, You'll Probably Wish You Grabbed These Stocks Subscribe to Motley Fool Canada on YouTube Fool contributor Aditya Raghunath has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Lightspeed Commerce. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. 2025 Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
