Naughty or nice? The best and worst performers of 2024
This year, the stock market served up thrills, spills and a few surprises that had investors buzzing. Some companies unwrapped sweet gains that left everyone feeling festive, while others fumbled their way to a lump-of-coal worthy performance. From ZIP Co’s jaw-dropping comeback to The Star Entertainment’s bumpy ride, here’s who sparkled – and face-planted – this year.
Ready to see who made the list?
2. Life360 (360) +187%*
Known for: Family safety and location-sharing technology.
Why it’s up: Life360 nailed it this year with more subscribers and smart acquisitions (hello, Jiobit). And its app for modern families made a strong case for growth and the market rewarded its vision big time.
3. Sigma Healthcare (SIG) +141%*
Known for: Getting medicines where they need to go.
Why it’s up: Sigma is crushing it with a serious comeback story. Regaining lost contracts and a massive merger with Chemist Warehouse put it back in the driver’s seat. With healthcare demand staying strong, Sigma’s been flexing its resilience and reminding everyone it’s a key player.
Worst Performers
1. The Star Entertainment (SGR)-59%*
Known for: Casinos and entertainment venues.
Why it’s down: It’s been a tough year for The Star. Regulatory investigations and fines tarnished its reputation, while declining visitor numbers post-pandemic didn’t help. Add in cost pressures and an uncertain economic environment, and The Star’s stock hit rock bottom.
2. Lifestyle Communities (LIC)-52%*
Known for: Building and managing retirement communities.
Why it’s down: Rising interest rates and a slowing property market knocked Lifestyle Communities hard. With housing affordability tightening, demand for its lifestyle-focused developments slowed. Investors grew cautious and the stock reflected those worries.
3. Liontown Resources (LTR)-52%*
Known for: Lithium mining and exploration.
Why it’s down: It’s a classic case of hype falling short. After riding the lithium boom, Liontown stumbled when production delays and rising costs raised red flags. A failed takeover bid added uncertainty, leaving investors wary of the company’s next steps. A slump in lithium prices added significant weight to its share price.
