Why is the Regional Express (ASX:REX) share price underperforming Qantas lately?

Here's what's been driving the REX share price lately.

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The Regional Express Holdings Ltd (ASX: REX) share price is having a good day on the ASX today but the boost isn't enough to combat its recent poor performance.

The REX share price has slid 6% over the last 30 days despite releasing no news to the market. It's currently trading at $1.525, 3% higher than its previous close.

Meanwhile, fellow ASX airline Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN) has seen its share price take off. While it's in the red today, Qantas' stock is currently trading for 3% more than it was this time last month.

So, what's causing one airline's shares to nosedive while the other's soar? Let's take a look.

a man wearing an old-fashioned aviation leather head covering and goggles and with a cardboard plane shape around his waist runs along the ground against a barren, desert background.

Image source: Getty Images

REX share price plummets, Qantas' takes off

The REX share price's recent tumble might have stemmed from a lack of news rather than any negative updates.

The last time the market heard price-sensitive news from REX was in late September when the airline announced it would resume flights on 31 October following an extended standdown.

The airline's predicted restart aligned with when it expected its frontline staff to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The company announced in a press release that it achieved this goal on 1 November.

REX plans to restart its regional New South Wales services, and flights between Melbourne, Sydney, and Canberra from 15 November. Flights between Melbourne and Adelaide will take off from 26 November. Finally, flights to the Gold Coast from Sydney and Melbourne will begin on 17 December.

Meanwhile, Qantas has graced the market with 2 price-sensitive announcements over the last month.

First, it sold 13.8 hectares of land in Sydney's Mascot for $802 million. The funds will be put towards paying off the airline's debt.

Then, on 22 October, Qantas announced it was bringing forward its plans to get back into international airspace.

The airline and its budget leg, Jetstar, will both be taking off more than 4 weeks earlier than planned after New South Wales and Victoria opened their borders to international travel on 1 November.

Since Australia's international borders reopened – at least in New South Wales and Victoria – the Qantas share price has gained 7%.

Sadly, the REX share price hasn't enjoyed such a boost. Most likely because it only operates domestic services.

Motley Fool contributor Brooke Cooper has no position in any of the stocks mentioned.

The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Travel Shares

A cute young girl wears a straw hat and has a backpack strapped on her back as she holds a globe in her hand with a cheeky smile on her face.
Travel Shares

Qantas shares have dumped 7% in 3 days. Should I buy?

Is the recent Qantas share price weakness a buying opportunity?

Read more »

A corporate-looking woman looks at her mobile phone as she pulls along her suitcase in another hand while walking through an airport terminal with high glass panelled walls.
Travel Shares

Why is the Flight Centre share price lagging the ASX 200 on Monday?

Flight Centre has raised more funds than it planned.

Read more »

A woman reaches her arms to the sky as a plane flies overhead at sunset.
Investing Strategies

'Still has legs': Not too late to buy these 2 stellar ASX 200 shares, says expert

One sector is showing remarkable resilience against all the economic doom and gloom. And it will keep making money in…

Read more »

A woman ponders a question as she puts money into a piggy bank with a model plane and suitcase nearby.
Travel Shares

When will Flight Centre shares resume paying dividends?

Is there going to be a Flight Centre dividend in 2023?

Read more »

a young girl wearing a set of airplane wings stands on a tarmac with hands in the air and an excited look on her face as though she is about to take off.
Travel Shares

Qantas share price could surge to $10: JPMorgan

Top broker tips a 30% increase in the Qantas share price within 12 months.

Read more »

a man wearing an old-fashioned aviation leather head covering and goggles and with a cardboard plane shape around his waist runs along the ground against a barren, desert background.
Travel Shares

Qantas share price flying higher despite new labour disruptions

The Qantas share price won’t be receiving any tailwinds from the company’s refuelling crews on Wednesday.

Read more »

Travel Shares

Should I buy Flight Centre shares at $19?

Can this ASX travel share keep flying higher?

Read more »

A pilot stands in an empty passenger cabin smiling with his arms crossed looking excited
Travel Shares

Own Qantas shares? Here's how the ASX 200 airline plans to grow

Qantas shares are in focus this morning as the ASX 200 airline announces some big 10-year growth plans.

Read more »