3D Systems Corporation (DDD), Stratasys, Ltd. (SSYS): 3D Printing Early Movers Will Reap the Rewards

For all three companies, more units sold means more future revenue from materials. I think this will matter a bit more to ExOne proportionally since it is far smaller, but it does apply to every company. There is not much information available regarding the company, and I doubt ExOne is unknown given the hype surrounding 3D printing. However, 2013 is another year of massive revenue growth. Not enough quarters of earnings have passed to be able to report a lot of the metrics that make stock researchers happy.

Conclusion

This is a multi-year industry and any investment would need to be undertaken with great patience. ExOne is off from its post-IPO high, and a few solid earnings reports could be a positive catalyst for the stock. We should also get more insight from the first earnings conference call. ExOne is my favorite on this list, because it is a new issue that has not posted massive stock gains yet.

ExOne has the greatest growth potential on this list, but if new companies scare you, then go with 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD). Disappointment with guidance is exactly what will make 3D Systems a great opportunity. Considering the hype around 3D printing, it worries me that Stratasys, Ltd. (NASDAQ:SSYS) gave guidance above expectations. I fear they are being too optimistic, which is the job of investors and analysts. I prefer companies to be conservative with guidance.

Nihar Patel has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) and Stratasys. The Motley Fool owns shares of 3D Systems and Stratasys, Ltd. (NASDAQ:SSYS) and has the following options: Short Jan 2014 $36 Calls on 3D Systems and Short Jan 2014 $20 Puts on 3D Systems