Appen Stock Philippines: A Good Buy in 2025?

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At HelloSafe, our expert has been tracking the stock performance of Appen for over three years. Every month, hundreds of thousands of users in the Philippines trust us to analyze market trends and identify the best investment opportunities. Our analyses are provided for informational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. In accordance with our ethical charter, we have never been, and will never be, compensated by Appen.

What is Appen?

How much is Appen stock?

The price of Appen stock is falling this week. As of now, Appen trades at AUD $1.125, down 1.32% over the past 24 hours and down 1.75% for the week. The company has a market capitalization of AUD $298.02 million and an average three-month trading volume of 9.6 million shares. The P/E Ratio is not applicable due to recent losses, no dividend yield is paid, and the stock has a beta of 0.90, reflecting lower volatility than the market. Investors should note that although volatility is moderate, price swings can still create new opportunities.

Our full analysis of Appen stock

Having thoroughly reviewed Appen’s latest financial results and tracked the stock’s substantial price action over the past three years, we have synthesized insights from multiple sources—ranging from core financial metrics and technical signals, to competitive analysis and macro data—utilizing our proprietary algorithms. In this in-depth analysis, we bring a unified perspective on the evolution of Appen’s profile as a specialist in AI data. So, why might Appen stock once again become a strategic entry point into the artificial intelligence and data solutions sector in 2025?

Recent performance and market context

Appen’s performance in the recent year demonstrates its ongoing transformation. The stock is currently trading at AUD $1.125, securing a remarkable +147% gain year-on-year, despite a correction of -57% year-to-date as market sentiment rebalanced after 2024’s rally. Over the past three months, Appen has maintained an average daily trading volume of 9.6 million shares—underlining persistent investor interest. Company-specific developments, such as an improved cost structure (operating expenses down 26%) and sharply reduced net loss, have underpinned recovery. In parallel, robust growth in Appen’s China division (+71% in 2024) and the successful pivot into generative AI regional projects signal positive catalysts.

Macroeconomic tailwinds reinforce these favorable trends. Global demand for high-quality data to power AI lifecycle solutions is accelerating, especially in Asia-Pacific. Regulatory clarity around digital infrastructure and ongoing corporate investment in automation, language models, and data governance all bode well for sector stability and medium-term growth. With tech cycle rebounds noted globally and in the Philippines’ digital sector, Appen’s alignment with key trends remains compelling.

Technical analysis

Several technical factors paint a promising near- and mid-term outlook. Appen’s RSI (14 days) at 51.8 indicates a neutral zone—neither oversold nor overbought—suggesting the stock is at an equilibrium and primed for a new trend. The MACD recently generated a bullish signal (MACD line above signal, positive histogram), aligning with the formation of a pocket pivot and an NR7 range contraction pattern. These patterns are classically interpreted as potential precursors to strong upside moves.

Moreover, Appen’s spot price sits above the critical 20- and 50-day moving averages (AUD $1.085 and $1.084), both flashing “buy” signals. Strong technical support resides at AUD $1.107 and $1.088, with immediate resistance at levels like $1.142 and $1.158. Should upward momentum continue, a break above these resistances could open the path for swift appreciation. Volume and price structure reinforce a base-building phase that often precedes a sustained, bullish leg.

Fundamental analysis

Fundamental metrics underline Appen’s turnaround potential. While the company operates at a net loss (TTM EPS: -AUD $0.13), this figure represents a drastic improvement vs. 2023’s losses. Underlying EBITDA for 2024 turned positive at USD $3.5 million, reflecting the clear impact of disciplined cost control. Revenue, while down year-on-year to USD $235 million, is stabilizing; 2025 guidance (USD $235–260 million, positive EBITDA) signals management’s confidence in an operational rebound.

Valuation multiples appear highly attractive for a sector in high-growth transition: Appen is currently trading at just 0.72x price-to-sales and 1.7x price/book, both well below historic averages for innovative tech platforms. This discount seems unwarranted given Appen’s strategic assets and market position. The company’s leadership in the AI data supply industry, especially as a trusted provider for large language models (LLMs) and generative AI workflows, reinforces its competitive edge. Strategic investments in Asia, notably the China platform growth and expansion into generative AI, further buttress prospects for renewed, profitable growth.

Structurally, Appen stands out for its:

• Global brand among technology leaders,
• Track record of innovation in annotation platforms and AI lifecycle solutions,
• Renewed commercial focus on AI labs, LLM fine-tuning, and quality control.

Volume and liquidity

The stock’s healthy average daily volume of 9.6 million shares (Q2 2025) guarantees robust liquidity, enabling swift entry and exit for retail and institutional investors alike. This level of turnover, especially after a period of sharp price movement, suggests both trader engagement and long-term market confidence in the business model. With a public float of 264.9 million shares and a market capitalization of AUD $298 million, price discovery remains dynamic and likely to reflect corporate progress in real time. In the PH context, liquidity and accessibility via international brokers make Appen an accessible play for investors seeking global tech exposure.

Catalysts and positive outlook

Looking forward, several bullish catalysts present themselves:

• The market for labeled data for AI and machine learning is on the brink of new expansion, especially around private LLM training and generative AI. Appen‘s strategic pivot to serve these use cases (28% of H2 FY24 revenues from generative AI) is pivotal.
• The China division’s exceptional 71% growth in 2024 demonstrates Appen’s ability to capture regional opportunities at scale.
• Operational efficiency initiatives, with a 26% drop in 2024 expenses, offer further margin upside in a cyclical upturn.
• The global digital transformation post-pandemic, combined with the “AI arms race” among global platforms, amplifies demand for Appen’s solutions.
• The analyst consensus price target of AUD $1.84 (+30% upside from current levels) underscores broader market optimism for a re-rating.

Adding to these, the leadership team—recently refreshed, with Ryan Kolln at the helm—demonstrates a pragmatic focus on cost control, go-to-market strategy, and scalable, recurring revenue streams.

Investment strategies

Appen offers compelling entry points for multiple investment horizons:

• Short-term: The current technical base formation and bullish patterns suggest the potential for a tactical swing trade, particularly amid catalyst-rich news flow around generative AI and partnerships.
• Medium-term: The normalization of revenue and further opex rationalization set the ground for earnings momentum, especially as operating leverage returns and the China business scales.
• Long-term: Appen’s repositioning at the heart of the AI and machine learning value chain, as well as its global client base and differentiated platforms, provides a strong foundation for sustained growth.

Ideal entry may be found just above technical supports ($1.107, $1.088), with the opportunity to ride momentum through potential resistance at $1.142, $1.158, and beyond. Investors positioned ahead of scheduled results or technology roll-outs may benefit disproportionately from positive surprises or upgrades.

Is it the right time to buy Appen?

Appen currently exhibits a rare combination of sector leadership, operational agility, and highly attractive valuation. The company’s progress in returning to profitability, with positive EBITDA and significant cost wins, together with unmatched positioning in high-growth segments like generative AI and the APAC/China tech market, all point to compelling renewal. Technical and liquidity signals support a bullish narrative, while consensus targets and catalysts add weight to a positive outlook.

For Philippine investors seeking exposure to the digital transformation and the AI revolution, Appen seems to represent an excellent opportunity at current levels. With strong institutional foundations, credible corporate governance, and a business model aligned to tomorrow’s technology demands, Appen may be entering a new bullish phase—one that justifies renewed attention and a place on any forward-looking watchlist.

How to buy Appen stock in the Philippines?

Buying Appen stock online is simple and secure through a regulated broker. Investors from the Philippines can use two main methods: spot buying for direct ownership, or trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs) for leveraged strategies. Spot buying lets you hold real shares, while CFDs offer flexibility to trade on price movements up or down, but with higher risk. Both options use easy-to-navigate platforms designed to safeguard your funds and data. For a full comparison of brokerage fees, services, and features tailored to Philippine investors, check out the broker comparison table further down the page.

Spot buying

Buying Appen stock for cash (spot buying) means purchasing real shares listed on the ASX that you own in your portfolio. Philippine investors typically pay a fixed brokerage commission per order—often around PHP 300 to 500 (about $5–$10), depending on your platform.

Gain scenario

If the Appen share price is AUD $1.125, you can buy around 885 shares with a $1,000 stake, including a brokerage fee of around $5.

If the share price rises by 10%, your shares are now worth $1,100.

Result: +$100 gross gain, i.e. +10% on your investment.

Spot buying suits investors seeking long-term exposure to the company’s performance and the potential for capital appreciation.

Trading via CFD

CFD (Contract for Difference) trading allows you to speculate on the rise or fall of Appen’s stock price without owning the actual shares. You pay a variable spread (the difference between buying and selling prices) and possibly overnight financing fees if you hold your position for several days.

CFD Position Gain Scenario

You open a CFD position on Appen shares, with 5x leverage.
This gives you a market exposure of $5,000.
✔️ Gain scenario:
If the stock rises by 8%, your position gains 8% × 5 = 40%.
Result: +$400 gain, on a bet of $1,000 (excluding fees).

CFDs provide an efficient way to amplify gains with less starting capital, but keep in mind that losses can also be multiplied.

Final advice

Carefully compare each broker’s fees, minimum deposit, regulations, and support before making your first investment. The choice between spot buying and CFD trading depends on your risk profile and financial goals. More detailed comparisons and guidance can be found in the broker comparison table below, helping you choose the approach best suited to your needs.

Our 7 tips for buying Appen stock

The latest news about Appen

Appen reported a pocket pivot and NR7 technical pattern signaling possible bullish price expansion this week. On July 8, the stock experienced a pocket pivot, often a precursor to upward swings, and on July 9 formed an NR7 pattern—indicating a tightening price range that may lead to heightened volatility and potential price breakout, an important metric for short-term traders in Asia-Pacific markets.

Appen’s China division achieved 71% year-on-year growth, reinforcing its competitive strength in the Asian AI market. This exceptional expansion, reported in the last annual results, highlights Appen’s sustained ability to capture fast-growing regional demand for AI data solutions—especially relevant for Philippine investors seeking exposure to Asia’s booming technology sector.

Operational cost reductions boosted profitability, with a 26% yearly decrease in operating expenses supporting a positive EBITDA outlook in 2025. Appen’s disciplined cost management has proven essential for margin recovery. This trend is set to continue as guidance for 2025 calls for further positive EBITDA, reflecting a leaner and more resilient business model.

Generative AI solutions now account for 28% of H2 2024 revenue, confirming Appen’s successful pivot to higher-value services. With the explosive adoption of large language models in Asia, Appen’s focus on generative AI revenue aligns it with regional tech innovation, making the stock especially relevant to Philippine investors keen on global AI trends.

Despite overall revenue decline, Appen posted vastly improved net losses and outperformed analyst expectations in expense management. While annual revenue dipped by 14%, net losses fell sharply from USD $118 million to USD $20.01 million. Positive underlying EBITDA and continuous improvement initiatives provide a constructive signal for stakeholders monitoring the stock across Asia-Pacific financial centers.

FAQ

P. Laurore

Finance expert

Co-founder of HelloSafe and holder of a Master's degree in finance, Pauline has recognised expertise in personal finance, which she uses to help users better understand and optimise their financial choices. At HelloSafe, Pauline plays a key role in designing clear, educational content on savings, investments and personal finance. Passionate about financial education, Pauline strives, with every piece of content she oversees, to provide reliable, transparent and unbiased information for independent and informed financial management. To this end, she has tested over 100 trading platforms to help internet users make the right choices.