Expert Exchange: Where to for Zip Co in 2026? The Trader vs the Journalist

Here on HotCopper, we’re digging into our Expert Exchange series for CY26, tapping the greatest minds in the Australian finance and investment landscape for their two cents on what HotCopper users are dying to know.

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And one big issue on the minds of HotCopper users in recent history? Former darling BNPL provider Zip Co (ASX:ZIP), which, since it recently released earnings in February, has seen its share price plummet considerably.

Zip lost -35% when it released its earnings last month, and that’s despite the fact that the company’s fundamentals are, by and large, healthy.

But they weren’t healthy enough for many Aussie traders who took part in the slaughterhouse earnings season that was February CY26, and now we find ourselves on the cusp of a greater problem.

With Zip Co now looking like a U.S.-heavy buy-now, pay-later player, with the crown jewel BNPL Wall Street IPO Klarna seriously suffering in the last six months, and with Zip perhaps just having lost the sex appeal of offering a new payment system – where does the company go from here?

For this Expert Exchange, battle lines are clear: Wealth Within‘s veteran trader Fil Tortevski, from the trader POV, argues there’s plenty of juice left in Zip when it comes to matching prior levels – while HotCopper‘s senior reporter Jonathon Davidson believes he sees the writing on the wall for this fintech.

Take a listen, and decide who you think makes the more compelling point.

Join the discussion: See what’s trending right now on HotCopper, Australia’s largest stock forum, and be part of the conversations that move the markets.

The material provided in this article is for information only and should not be treated as investment advice. Viewers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a certified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. For full disclaimer information, please click here.