JMP Securities reiterates Market Outperform rating on Upwork stock, maintains $20 target

Published 12/09/2025, 10:00
JMP Securities reiterates Market Outperform rating on Upwork stock, maintains $20 target

Investing.com - JMP Securities has reiterated its Market Outperform rating and $20.00 price target on Upwork Inc. (NASDAQ:UPWK), the online freelance marketplace platform. The company, currently trading at $16.37, has demonstrated strong financial health with an impressive 77.88% gross profit margin and a modest P/E ratio of 9.45.

The firm maintains its positive outlook on Upwork based on multiple ongoing catalysts for Gross Services Value (GSV) and revenue growth that are independent of macroeconomic conditions.

JMP Securities identifies several specific growth drivers, including Upwork’s new variable freelancer fee structure, a revamped enterprise strategy, and increasing AI-related work opportunities on the platform.

The firm also highlights AI-driven marketplace enhancements and sustained momentum in advertising and monetization tools, alongside continued adoption of Upwork’s Business Plus tier, as additional growth factors.

JMP Securities notes that when combined with Upwork’s ongoing cost discipline, these factors create potential upside to both revenue and profit estimates for the company.

In other recent news, Upwork Inc. reported its second-quarter 2025 earnings, revealing a stronger-than-expected performance. The company posted earnings per share of $0.35, surpassing the forecast of $0.27, and revenue reached a record $194.9 million, exceeding the expected $187.56 million. Additionally, Upwork’s board of directors authorized a new $100 million share repurchase program, marking the company’s third such authorization since November 2023. This program allows repurchases through open market transactions or privately negotiated deals, with no expiration date.

In leadership news, Upwork appointed Anthony Kappus as its first chief operating officer, effective September 2, to oversee various operational teams. Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs adjusted its price target for Upwork to $24.00, down from $25.00, while maintaining a Buy rating. The adjustment follows Upwork’s Q2 earnings report, where AI features were noted to enhance client activity and spending per active client. These developments highlight Upwork’s ongoing strategic and operational advancements.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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