American Express and Fluence Energy face stock slumps despite strong fundamentals

Two major companies in different sectors are facing contrasting challenges despite strong fundamentals. American Express, a financial giant, has seen its stock tumble by 22% since December 2025, even as it raises dividends and sets ambitious growth targets. Meanwhile, Fluence Energy, a battery storage specialist, is negotiating large-scale deals with data centre operators while its share price plummets by 51% from a recent peak.

American Express has outlined plans to grow revenue by 9% to 10% and earnings per share (EPS) by 12.5% to 16.4% in fiscal 2026. The company reported a 9.56% revenue increase in Q4 2025, reaching $21.05 billion, with EPS at $3.53. Despite this, its stock has dropped from a 52-week high of $387.36 in December 2025 to around $300–302 by mid-March 2026. Broader market pressures and inflation concerns have weighed on the share price, pushing it below sector averages.

In March 2026, the firm raised its quarterly dividend by 16% to $0.95 per share, offering a forward yield of 1.3%. Analysts remain optimistic, with Bank of America maintaining a 'buy' rating and a $381 target. The company's credit management also stands out, with a net write-off rate of 2.1% in Q4 2025—half the industry average. Fluence Energy, on the other hand, is in talks with data centre operators for 36 GWh of battery storage projects, separate from its existing $5.5 billion backlog. These projects aim to bypass lengthy grid connection delays, a growing issue for the industry. However, the company's Q1 gross margins fell short due to unexpected scope changes in two international contracts. Management expects to recover the added costs over time. Despite a record backlog covering its 2026 revenue guidance, Fluence's shares have plunged 51% from their February peak as of March 16, 2026. The decline reflects broader volatility in the energy storage sector, even as demand for its solutions remains strong.

American Express continues to deliver solid financial results and shareholder returns, yet its stock struggles amid market-wide pressures. Fluence Energy, despite securing major contracts and maintaining a full order book, faces sharp share price declines due to short-term margin issues. Both companies now must navigate investor sentiment while building on their operational strengths.