Top-level corporate executives such as CEOs and CFOs tend to have an information advantage over other investors. If these insiders are buying company stock, it’s generally a positive development.

Here, we are going to highlight a CEO purchase at Zooplus AG (ZO1:GR). Zooplus is a German retailer that sells a vast selection of pet care products through its online stores. The company is listed on Deutsche Börse’s Xetra and currently has a market capitalization of €1.4 billion.

Zooplus: Insider Buying

Our records show that on 15 January, Zooplus CEO Cornelius Patt bought 2,800 shares at a price of €165.34 per share. This purchase – his first since March 2020 – cost the insider €462,952.

Insider trading IQ

This insider transaction is worth highlighting for a couple of reasons. Firstly, Patt has an excellent track record when it comes to the timing of his purchases and sales in Zooplus. In the past, he has often bought on the dips and then sold near the highs very effectively.

Secondly, this is a large purchase for the insider. Our data shows that it is his largest purchase for several years. Interestingly, this purchase is at a much higher price than his recent purchases. This suggests he’s confident the stock is set to move higher. 

Strong Q3 Results

Zooplus’ last trading update, posted on 17 November 2020, showed that the company has considerable momentum right now. Highlights of the update, which covered the nine-month period to 30 September 2020, included:

• Sales of €1.3 billion, representing growth of 18% year on year
• Sales retention of 97% – a new record level
• EBITDA of €47.8 million versus €6.7 million the year before
• Gross margin of 30.5% versus 28.5% the year before
• Strong free cash flow of €52.8 million versus €9.5 million the year before