The 10 Worst European Stocks

Discover the top underperforming European stocks as we examine the 10 worst-performing options. Dive into the reasons behind their struggles and gain insights into what’s driving their decline in this thorough analysis. Join us as we explore the dynamics of these stocks and their impact on the market.

1. Orpea

Orpea represents the biggest European stock market failure of the past year (-99.7%). Yet, it was entirely foreseeable. Since 2022, the share price has plummeted by 460. It’s noteworthy that rival Clariane, also burdened by excessive debt, experienced a similar downfall: -75% in the last year.

2. Casino

Casino plummeted by nine-tenths of its value last year, marking the fifth consecutive year of decline for the retailer. Its market capitalization has dipped below the €80 million mark. This is the second major setback for a French company in the past year, following Orpea’s similar decline.

3. Hexatronic

The Swedish group Hexatronic saw an 81% drop last year, ending four years of consecutive stock market growth. As a specialist in optical network equipment, it continually revised its forecasts downward, eroding investor trust and questioning an unreasonable valuation.

4. Idorsia

The Swiss biotechnology firm Idorsia is struggling after facing two major setbacks last year, plummeting by over 80%. Despite the success of Actelion, the market has lost confidence in the Clozel couple. Analysts’ average price target has dropped significantly, from 32 Swiss francs three years ago to just 2.1 Swiss francs.

5. Verbio

The German biofuel producer has seen its value halve last year. Once praised for its unique profile, the company lost market favor when its financial results disappointed. Controversies over food resource use for biofuels, along with energy price drops after initial Ukraine war tensions, pushed investors away. 

6. S4 Capital

S4 Capital, the new version of the advertising agency founded by advertising guru and former WPP head Martin Sorrell, has hit rough waters. The decline can be attributed to a series of downward targets that seemed out of place given the company’s valuation and Sorrell’s ambitious remarks. Its stock price plummeted by 72% in the last year.

7. Euroapi

Euroapi is one of the biggest flops among European stocks, with a 59% decline last year. Originally a Sanofi subsidiary, it appeared set for success. However, after three significant target revisions in just a few months, it became a pitfall for shareholders. 

8. Worldline

Last year, the former Atos subsidiary saw a steep 57% decline. While the fintech sector experienced a loss of appeal in recent quarters, Wordline suffered even more due to a series of disappointing targets. This marks the third consecutive year of over 25% decline since its spin-off in 2014, indicating a challenging path ahead to restore the group’s reputation.

9. Orsted

Focusing on wind farm development, Orsted experienced substantial stock growth from 2016 to 2020. However, its development model, which depended on historically low-interest rates and public subsidies, faced challenges when confronted with reality. Adapting projects to the new economic landscape poses various hurdles. Last year, the stock price plunged by 41%.

10. Alstom

For three consecutive years, this European stock has dropped by over 25%. The acquisition of Bombardier Transportation, though strategically sound, has heavily impacted finances. Despite a strong order backlog and presence in the thriving rail mobility sector, Alstom faces vulnerability.