Why LinkedIn Shares Plunged

Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.

What: Shares of LinkedIn plunged today by as much as 14% after the company reported earnings with disappointing guidance.

So what: Revenue in the first quarter was $324.7 million, easily topping the Street's forecast of $317.1 million. The non-GAAP earnings per share of $0.45 was also well ahead of consensus estimates, which were calling for just $0.31 per share. The real cause for investor concern was conservative guidance.

Now what: Second-quarter outlook calls for revenue in the range of $342 million to $347 million, which is below consensus at $359.2 million. Adjusted EBITDA in the quarter should be $77 million to $79 million. Full-year sales are expected in the range of $1.43 billion to $1.46 billion, also short of expectations. LinkedIn grew its member base to 218 million.

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The article Why LinkedIn Shares Plunged originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor Evan Niu, CFA has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends and owns shares of LinkedIn. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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