You Won't Believe How Much a $1,000 Investment in Upstart Stock 5 Years Ago Is Worth Today

MrDecoder · 2026-03-25T12:09:21+00:00

Upstart has innovatively utilized AI for credit assessment, increasing borrower access to loans. However, its stock has plummeted 79% since March 2021, leading to disappointing returns for investors amid cyclical financial performance and uncertain profitability.

MrDecoder

2026-03-25 12:09:21

Abstract generation in progress

It’s hard to deny just how forward-thinking Upstart (UPST 4.69%) is. The innovative enterprise developed a completely new credit-assessment tool that leverages artificial intelligence to give more borrowers access to loans. It’s a true pioneer within the financial services industry.

Long-term investors haven’t reaped the rewards from this disruptive business model, however. You won’t believe how much a $1,000 investment in this fintech stock five years ago is worth today.

Image source: Getty Images.

Since late March 2021, Upstart’s stock price has tanked 79% (as of March 20). If you had been unfortunate enough to have purchased $1,000 worth of shares back then, you’d have just $214 today. This has been an extremely disappointing investment opportunity with heightened levels of volatility.

Upstart benefited greatly from the ultra-low interest rate environment during the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic, which boosted growth. But the company struggled when rates increased. In 2025, though, its top line was up 64% year over year, as things stabilized.

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NASDAQ: UPST

Upstart

Today’s Change

(-4.69%) $-1.31

Current Price

$26.60

Key Data Points

Market Cap

$2.6B

Day’s Range

$26.39 - $27.42

52wk Range

$24.93 - $87.30

Volume

6.6K

Avg Vol

5.2M

Gross Margin

97.62%

The challenge with owning Upstart is that its financial performance is highly cyclical, as there is a strong dependence on favorable macro conditions. The business has a choppy history. Besides inconsistent revenue growth, getting to durable profitability is still very much a huge question mark.

Even with the stock trading at what appears to be a cheap valuation, Upstart is a high-risk bet.

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