Expectations were high going into MercadoLibre's (NASDAQ: MELI) third-quarter earnings report. Fueled by the massive success of its payments business, MercadoLibre's stock had soared 78% so far this year heading into its financial release. A steep operating loss during the quarter effectively wiped out the company's profits for the year, initially sending investors running for the exits.
Net revenue clocked in at $603 million, up 70% year over year, and up more than 90% measured in local currencies. Expenses more than doubled, though, resulting in a net loss of $146 million and a loss per share of $2.96.
Fortunately, things were not as bad as they initially appeared, and the stock has since gained back its initial losses -- and more. Much of that recovery was the result of details provided in the company's conference call. Here are three key takeaways every MercadoLibre investor should know.