Should I buy Appen stock in 2025?

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At HelloSafe, our expert has been tracking the performance of Appen for over three years. Every month, hundreds of thousands of users in Australia trust us to analyse 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 stable this week. Currently trading at 1.13 AUD, the stock showed no 24-hour change and is down 1.74% over the past week. Appen’s market capitalisation stands at 299.34 million AUD, with an average three-month volume of 9.66 million shares. There is no P/E ratio at present due to recent losses, and no dividend yield has been reported. The stock’s five-year beta is 0.90, suggesting moderate volatility compared to the market. This makes Appen an option for investors comfortable with shifting tech-sector dynamics and potential recovery scenarios.

Our full analysis of Appen stock

Having systematically reviewed Appen's latest financial results, together with the stock’s performance over the past three years, our market intelligence incorporates financial ratios, technical trends, competitors’ strategies, and sector dynamics—all weighted using proprietary algorithms. By filtering market data through both fundamental and technical lenses, we’ve built a comprehensive mosaic that outlines the opportunity set ahead. So, why might Appen stock once again become a strategic entry point into the global artificial intelligence and data services sector in 2025?

Recent performance and market context

Appen’s journey over the past twelve months characterises a remarkable turnaround narrative, with the share price climbing 140.43% year-on-year as of July 2025, despite one of the most challenging periods in the company’s history. The current price of AUD 1.13 reflects both a solid recovery and improved sentiment, especially when seen against a six-month low that tested AUD 0.425. More recently, the stock has stabilised, with a negligible 24-hour move (0.00%) and only a minor dip over the last week (-1.74%), suggesting a consolidation phase after the rebound.

This resurgence corresponds with a series of fundamentally positive events—most notably, the end of the former Google contract, now offset by robust growth in new customer segments and strong LLM-related (Large Language Model) projects in China (+71% YoY). Within the broader context, Appen stands to benefit from sustained demand for artificial intelligence and machine learning services, as well as Australia’s strategic push to cement its role in the global digital economy. As the macro environment grows increasingly favourable for technology and AI specialists, Appen’s renewed momentum on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) appears to represent an excellent entry window for forward-looking investors.

Technical analysis

Appen’s technical landscape also adds to this strong market context. The stock currently trades above key short-term moving averages, with the 20-day and 50-day lines indicating bullish sentiment (respectively AUD 1.079 and AUD 1.062), while longer-term averages remain above price (100d at AUD 1.304 and 200d at AUD 1.807), highlighting a potential transitional phase into a more sustained uptrend. Recent bullish crossovers on these shorter averages reinforce the view that buyers are regaining control.

The 14-day RSI, currently at 53.24, remains neutral—suggesting neither excessive speculation nor overextension, and leaving ample room for acceleration. Additionally, a positive MACD of 0.011 further supports the idea of underlying buying strength, while Stochastic indicators reinforce neutrality, giving the currency’s price structure a foundation for future breakout potential. Investors should note the well-defined support near AUD 0.97 (recent low) and a primary resistance at AUD 1.24. The divergence between short and long moving averages signals that an inflection point is near, adding to the case for an upward breakout as medium-term buying resumes.

Fundamental analysis

From a fundamental perspective, Appen is emerging from a transitional base, supported by credible improvements in operational performance and attractive valuation elements. At FY24, the company reported revenue of AUD 235.22 million—a figure that, while down 14.09% from the previous year (due primarily to the wind-down of its largest client contract), masks an underlying resurgence. Notably, revenue outside Google rose 16% YoY, and Q1 FY25 indicated a further 12% non-Google growth—evidence of successful diversification.

Profitability is also staging a comeback, with underlying EBITDA swinging back to the black (AUD 3.5 million for FY24, versus a loss of AUD 23.9 million in FY23). Q1 FY25 showed further narrowing of adjusted losses, with a negligible AUD 1.5 million deficit, and a marked improvement in cash position—up to AUD 67.9 million from December 2024. The current price-to-sales ratio sits at a discounted 0.73, providing clear headroom for multiple expansion if operational improvement persists. Appen’s best-in-class industry know-how (over 28 years at the artificial intelligence frontier), unique data annotation platforms, and strong global brand equity remain core differentiators.

Structurally, Appen’s focus on diversified growth—including avenues in technology, finance, automotive, and health—underscores its strong positioning in an era favouring digital infrastructure and smart data solutions.

Volume and liquidity

Market appetite for Appen remains robust, as evidenced by a stable three-month average trading volume of 9.66 million shares. This level of activity provides investors with both confidence and flexibility, enabling efficient trade execution and bolstering the underlying valuation. Such liquidity reduces spreads, dampens volatility during sector shocks, and ensures the float remains accessible to both institutional and retail participants.

The company’s relatively small market capitalisation (AUD 299.34 million) gives it potential for dynamic price appreciation, particularly in response to positive news or operational leverage. With over 264.9 million shares on issue, the float supports active price discovery and means Appen remains well-placed for institutional re-rating as its turnaround advances.

Catalysts and positive outlook

Several imminent catalysts underpin a positive outlook. Appen’s strategic transition from dependence on Google to diversified global and sectoral clients is bearing fruit, as demonstrated by the rapid growth in China and the expanding share of revenues linked to generative AI (28% in H2 FY24, up from 6% the previous year). The company’s leadership in AI data annotation keeps it squarely at the heart of explosive demand for machine learning models, with new partnerships and platform innovation (notably the ADAP AI Data Annotation Platform) driving top-line acceleration.

The upcoming Q2 FY25 results, scheduled for 20 August 2025, will allow investors to assess the pace and quality of the turnaround, with previous quarters aligned with or exceeding market expectations. On a macro level, the sector’s supportive ES&G profile, increasing digital transformation in Australia and Asia-Pacific, and outsized investment flows into AI give further upside to well-positioned names such as Appen. Additionally, positive developments in cost control, product innovation and client diversification will be watched closely by the market—and could unlock further upgrades from analysts currently targeting AUD 1.84.

Investment strategies

Investors can consider a variety of tactically sound entry strategies with Appen.

• For short-term traders, the current consolidation phase near AUD 1.13, with strong support at AUD 0.97 and a resistance ceiling of AUD 1.24, offers a clear framework: buying at support and taking profits near resistance is a disciplined approach, especially with technical signals still neutral.
• Medium-term investors may find upside in positioning ahead of key catalysts such as the Q2 FY25 earnings. The momentum from operationally positive quarters and SaaS product launches could drive the next leg upward, particularly as the company continues to execute on its growth initiatives outside the US and Google ecosystems.
• For long-term holders, the compelling valuation, operational turnaround, robust balance sheet, and growing business in AI-powered sectors all represent structural positives. The strategic pivot towards diversified global revenue and recurring streams should foster margin expansion and smoother earnings visibility over subsequent years.

Ideal timing would involve monitoring for confirmation of a bullish reversal from current levels, or entering ahead of financial reporting dates to capture upward pre-emptive market re-rating.

Is it the right time to buy Appen?

All things considered, Appen’s current backdrop—defined by credible financial improvement, a diversified customer base, positive sector trends, and a discounted valuation—seems to represent an excellent opportunity for investors seeking exposure to the AI and digital infrastructure boom. The stock’s resilient trading volume, strengthened operating position, and catalysts on the near-term horizon (notably, Q2 earnings and expanding Chinese market traction) collectively justify renewed interest. Investors should take particular note of the company’s transformation from a single-client focus to agile, multi-market leadership in high-value data annotation—a theme that remains squarely in favour for the foreseeable future.

While acknowledging residual volatility and the need for prudent position sizing, the technical and fundamental factors align to suggest that Appen may be entering a new bullish phase within the technology sector. The groundwork is set for further re-rating, and for investors vigilant on timing and fundamentals, Appen’s profile now underscores a rare convergence of value, momentum, and strategic upside—making it a stock very much worth watching in the present cycle.

How to buy Appen stock in Australia?

Buying Appen stock online is both simple and secure when you use a regulated broker operating in Australia. Investors generally have two main options: purchasing shares outright (spot buying) or trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs), each with its own benefits and risks. Whether you want to own your shares directly or take a more active approach with leveraged products, the process is straightforward for Australian residents. To help you make an informed decision, a detailed broker comparison is provided further down the page.

Spot buying

A cash purchase of Appen stock means you become a direct shareholder, owning the actual shares listed on the ASX. This is a popular method for long-term investors and usually involves a fixed brokerage fee per trade, often around $5–$10 per order in AUD.

Share Trading Gain Scenario

If the Appen share price is $1.13 AUD, you can buy around 883 shares with a $1,000 stake, including a brokerage fee of around $5.

✔️ Gain scenario: If the share price rises by 10%, your shares are now worth $1,100. Result: +$100 gross gain, i.e. +10% on your investment.

Trading via CFD

CFD trading on Appen shares lets you speculate on price movements without actually owning the shares. You can use leverage, enabling you to take larger positions with a smaller amount of capital. Fees usually include the spread (difference between buy and sell price) and, for overnight positions, a financing charge.

Example of a gain scenario with leverage

You open a CFD position on Appen shares, with 5x leverage. This gives you a market exposure of $5,000 on a $1,000 investment.

✔️ 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).

Final advice

Before buying Appen shares, always compare the fees, features, and conditions of different online brokers to find the platform that best suits your needs. The choice between spot buying and CFD trading depends mainly on your investment goals, risk appetite, and trading experience. A comprehensive broker comparator is available further down the page to assist your research and help you start investing with confidence.

7 tips for buying Appen stock

The latest news about Appen

Appen's share price has remained notably stable over the past week, closing at 1.13 AUD. Despite significant multi-month volatility, Appen shares were unchanged over the last seven days, demonstrating a pause in market swings and reflecting cautious optimism among local investors ahead of the company’s next earnings release.

Technical momentum indicators for Appen point to a neutral to slightly positive outlook this week. Short-term moving averages (20 and 50 days) signal a potential uptrend, while both the RSI (53.24) and MACD (0.011) suggest growing strength but without a decisive surge, encouraging a measured, non-speculative approach for Australian market watchers.

Appen retains a strong local presence with its headquarters in Chatswood, NSW, and a workforce of 1,130 employees. This operational stability, combined with continued research and investment within Australia, provides confidence to domestic institutional investors focused on homegrown AI and data annotation capabilities.

Financial liquidity remains robust, with 67.9 million AUD in cash as of March 2025. This improved cash position supports ongoing operations, development, and future Australian contracts, ensuring resilience and the ability to scale as demand for AI data annotation services expands regionally.

Appen's outlook is moderately optimistic, reinforced by recent client diversification and a growing pipeline outside its former main client, Google. Local strategic initiatives, coupled with rising AI sector demand in Australia, position Appen to benefit from sectoral growth and help restore positive sentiment among ASX investors in the coming quarters.

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.