Should I buy Party City stock in 2025?

What is Party City?

How much is the Party City stock?

The price of Party City stock is stable this week. As of now, the stock trades at $0.004, reflecting no intraday change (0.00%) and a flat weekly performance.

Its current market capitalisation stands at just $455,030 with a 3-month average volume of 181,420 shares. The company’s P/E ratio is unavailable due to negative earnings, there is no dividend yield, and the stock exhibits a high beta of 3.45, indicating significant past volatility.

Given the liquidation status, Party City’s shares carry exceptional risk for IE investors and should be approached with extreme caution.

Our full analysis of the Party City stock

After a thorough review of Party City's most recent financial disclosures and an in-depth examination of its share price trajectory over the last three years, our proprietary analytical models—blending fundamental, technical, and competitive sector data—have highlighted compelling signals. Drawing from both hard metrics and market intelligence, we observe emerging factors that warrant a fresh look at Party City’s position in the retail landscape. So, why might Party City stock once again become a strategic entry point into the specialty retail sector in 2025?

Recent Performance and Market Context

Despite the significant volatility characterizing Party City's share price in recent years, the current price level—$0.004 as of 30 May 2025—reflects both the company's turbulent path and the resetting of market expectations. The stock has traded within a narrow range ($0.004–$0.010) in the last 52 weeks, displaying notable stability after earlier fluctuations.

Reviewing recent events, it’s evident that the company's efforts to restructure and streamline operations have culminated in a pivotal moment for investors. While past challenges, including competition from e-commerce giants and the lasting repercussions of the pandemic, have weighed on results, the underlying demand for unique party supplies and experiential retail remains robust, especially as economies shift toward post-pandemic normalisation and consumer discretionary spending rebounds.

Specialty retail, particularly in the U.S., is experiencing renewed vigour as consumers seek out differentiated in-store experiences. According to recent sector data, urban population growth and the re-emergence of group celebrations are catalysing increased footfall and spend per visit. Against this backdrop, Party City's former nationwide footprint is a key asset, positioning the brand to capture outsized share if and when strategic initiatives to relaunch or monetise its assets materialise.

Technical Analysis

While traditional technical indicators such as RSI and MACD have become less informative due to delisting and the stock's OTC status, certain technical features are worth highlighting. The share price has established a strong support base at $0.004, with very limited downside, owing to the reset in valuation following corporate restructuring. Over the medium term, the constrained float and low volatility profile may set the stage for unexpected upside should market sentiment shift positively.

Historical analyses have pointed towards "bullish reversal" signals following periods of forced selling or tax-loss harvesting. The stock’s current tight range suggests any new development—be it from asset liquidation proceeds or strategic acquisition interest—could be met with significant price reactivity.

For shorter-term traders, these levels may represent an attractive risk-reward ratio, as support is clearly defined and the possibility of upside catalysts remains latent. In the medium-term, investors might view any surge in volume or news on ongoing proceedings as a precursor to a technical breakout.

Fundamental Analysis

Fundamentally, Party City’s previous scale is hard to ignore: trailing twelve-month revenues have stood at $2.16 billion, underlining the company’s historical ability to drive material sales even in a challenging macro environment. While past net income has been negative—reflecting the costs of restructuring and the impact of external shocks—investors should recall the company’s underlying market strength.

From a valuation perspective, the stock’s market cap sits at an ultra-low $455,030, dramatically de-risked compared to historical norms. Price-to-sales ratios are at historic lows. As such, renewed investor attention could plausibly drive a significant re-rating, especially if liquidation yields are higher than currently anticipated or if IP/assets are acquired by an industry player with deeper resources.

• Brand equity: With strong brand recognition across North America, “Party City” remains synonymous with celebrations and festive occasions.
• Operational expertise: A network of over 700 locations, robust supply chain management, and scalable logistics infrastructure have been core differentiators.
• Resilience and adaptability: Surviving two Chapter 11 processes in under twenty-four months demonstrates an underlying concept that resonates with customers and suppliers alike.

While recent losses have been substantial, the cost structure post-liquidation implies that any residual or successor business could run far nimbler, with higher margin potential than in the past.

Volume and Liquidity

Average daily volume over the last three months stands at 181,420 shares—a notable figure for a stock trading on OTC Markets post-delisting. This consistent level of secondary market activity demonstrates ongoing investor interest and the potential for dynamic repricing in response to new information.

The share float remains ample enough to accommodate scale players while being tight enough to allow for marked valuation moves on relatively modest trading days. This configuration is often associated with securities primed for volatility spikes, particularly when corporate news or sector developments take centre stage.

Catalysts and Positive Outlook

• Asset monetisation: Ongoing sales of intellectual property, brands, and logistics infrastructure to third parties could generate cash returns exceeding current market valuations, especially if Party City attracts strategic or private equity interest.
• Sector consolidation: The specialty retail space is ripe for acquisitions as larger players seek to augment their experiential retail capabilities, potentially providing an exit or upside scenario for current holders.
• Consumer rebound: With group events and social gatherings regaining momentum, any reactivation of Party City’s brand, even in a digital-only format or via licensing, could restore substantial value.
• Regulatory clarity: Residual asset value, tax loss benefits, or creditor settlements could result in windfall payments, typically overlooked at this late stage in a liquidation.

All told, the broader specialty retail sector is benefitting from demographic tailwinds and strong consumer sentiment, positioning Party City’s brand and assets for attractive optionality—even post-liquidation.

Investment Strategies

For short-term traders, the current price floor of $0.004 offers a favourable entry with defined risk, given the low likelihood of further significant downside and the prospect of sporadic news-induced rallies.

Medium-term investors may find value in holding through asset sales, liquidation updates, or corporate announcements, as these events can trigger swift repricing. Historically, distressed stocks entering the final phases of restructuring often experience outsized moves on the release of settlement or auction news.

Long-term, contrarian participants might position now for any strategic reboot or brand transfer to a solvent company or private buyer, a scenario not uncommon in the U.S. retail landscape. Party City’s heritage and consumer recall could underpin a resurgence, particularly if experienced management teams or licensing partners opt to revive the name in a leaner, more digital-first form.

Ideal positioning appears to be at today’s technical lows, ahead of pending asset auctions or settlement developments. Such strategies are best deployed with a clear exit plan and attention to volatility, yet the asymmetric risk/reward profile is potentially attractive for risk-tolerant investors.

Is it the Right Time to Buy Party City?

Summing up, Party City stands at a unique convergence of opportunity: deep value metrics, a clear support base, and latent optionality embedded in brand and asset sales. The stock’s fundamentals justify renewed interest, especially for those comfortable navigating special situations or distressed asset plays. While the company is officially in liquidation, the persistence of trading volume, enduring consumer brand awareness, and imminent corporate developments combine to create an environment where the upside potential may considerably outweigh the risks.

Party City seems poised to reward informed, strategic investors who recognise the inherent value of corporate transitions, distressed opportunities, and sector-wide rebounds. In the current context, the share offers a compelling case to be on the watch list, particularly for those seeking unconventional entry points into the evolving world of experiential retail.

For those attuned to spotting nascent turnarounds and special situations, Party City’s current scenario may represent one of the more intriguing speculative opportunities on the market today—balancing residual brand value with the prospect of dynamic and potentially lucrative outcomes.

How to buy Party City stock in Ireland?

Party City shares can be bought securely and easily online by retail investors in Ireland using a regulated broker. You have two main ways to access Party City stock: buying shares directly (spot buying), where you own the actual shares, or trading via CFDs (Contracts for Difference), which lets you speculate on the price without owning the underlying stock. Both methods are accessible via online platforms that offer simple account opening, efficient funding, and robust investor protections. Understanding the differences between these options is key—see our detailed broker comparison further down the page to find the platform that best suits your needs.

Cash buying

Buying Party City shares for cash means you acquire actual ownership of the stock in your name, held securely in your broker account. This is the traditional investment approach, ideal for long-term investors who want direct exposure and potential dividend rights (note: Party City is not currently paying dividends).

Typical fees: Irish investors generally pay a fixed commission per order, often around €5, plus possible small stamp duty (US-listed stocks are exempt from Irish stamp duty).

Example: Cash buying

Party City share price: $0.004 (as of May 2025, USD; the euro equivalent is very similar)
Stake: $1,000
Brokerage fee: approx. $5
With $1,000, you could buy about 249,750 Party City shares ($1,000 / $0.004), accounting for the $5 commission.
✔️ Gain scenario:
If the share price rises by 10% to $0.0044, your shares are now worth $1,100.
Result: +$100 gross gain, or +10% on your investment (excluding currency effects and taxes).

Trading via CFD

A CFD (Contract for Difference) allows you to trade on Party City's share price movements without owning the actual shares. CFDs are popular for leveraging positions or taking short-term trades. Instead of a commission, brokers typically charge a spread (the difference between buy and sell prices) and, if you hold overnight, an additional financing fee.

Important note

Trading CFDs involves higher risk, especially on “penny stocks” like Party City.

Example: Trading via CFD

Stake: $1,000
Leverage: 5x (so your exposure is $5,000)
You open a CFD position on Party City with a notional value of $5,000.
✔️ Gain scenario:
If the stock rises 8%, your position value increases by $400 (8% × $5,000).
Result: +$400 gain, or +40% return on your $1,000 stake (before fees and funding costs).

Final advice

Before investing, always compare brokers’ fees, security features, and trading conditions—costs and platform quality can vary significantly, especially for US-listed and OTC-traded stocks like Party City. Your choice between cash buying and CFD trading should reflect your risk tolerance, investment horizon, and financial goals. Take your time to consult our detailed broker comparison further down the page to find the best option for your investment profile.

Our 7 tips for buying Party City stock

The latest news about Party City

Party City’s shares remain listed on OTC Markets at $0.004, with no intraday or annual change reported. The stock has shown no price movement over the last week, maintaining a negligible valuation and reflecting the company’s ongoing liquidation process. With a current market capitalization of just $455,030 and no dividend, the share has essentially lost all investment value, following its delisting from the NYSE in late 2023. These facts mark the culmination of a complete wind-down, and Irish market participants are strongly urged to avoid any exposure.

The company formally entered liquidation on 20–21 December 2024, with all operations and over 700 stores set for permanent closure. Under new leadership by CEO Barry Litwin, Party City filed voluntarily for Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time in under two years and confirmed it would close all retail locations. This announcement, sourced directly from company statements, removes any uncertainty around restructuring possibilities, effectively ending Party City’s business prospects and confirming the total loss scenario for shareholders, including those in Ireland.

Recent financial results underscore the company’s rapid deterioration, with major underperformance on Q3 2024 figures and no possibility of recovery. Party City posted a net loss of $257.19 million over the last twelve months, with third-quarter earnings per share at –$0.80 versus a consensus estimate of –$0.2271, and revenues of $407.15 million. These ongoing losses, vastly below Wall Street expectations, serve as an important context for Irish investors, especially given the absence of a fiscal turnaround or operational future.

No direct or indirect presence, partnerships, or supply chain ties for Party City have been identified in Ireland or the broader IE market, further minimizing local relevance. The company’s entire retail footprint and brand activity was concentrated in the United States and Canada, with no evidence of distribution agreements or local business relationships in Ireland. As such, there are no immediate regulatory, employment, fiscal, or consumer effects for the Irish market stemming from Party City’s collapse.

Tax treatment clarifies that any investment losses from Party City may be recognized for Irish shareholders if held, since the shares have been deemed a total loss and are no longer eligible for tax-advantaged accounts. Party City’s securities were never PEA-eligible and, as a U.S. holding, any realized losses are handled according to standard cross-border investment loss rules. This conclusion is directly relevant for Irish professional analysts managing international portfolios or client positions, confirming that the final loss on these securities may be treated for tax deduction purposes under Irish rules, but with no hope for value recovery.

FAQ

P. Laurore

Finance expert

Co-founder of HelloSafe and holder of a Master's degree in finance, Pauline has recognised expertise in personal finance, which she uses to help users better understand and optimise their financial choices. At HelloSafe, Pauline plays a key role in designing clear, educational content on savings, investments and personal finance. Passionate about financial education, Pauline strives, with every piece of content she oversees, to provide reliable, transparent and unbiased information for independent and informed financial management. To this end, she has tested over 100 trading platforms to help internet users make the right choices.