What is the pre‑market/after‑hours price reaction and what are analysts’ initial comments?

Pre‑market/after‑hours reaction – Within the first hour after the release, LAB shares opened sharply lower in the pre‑market, slipping roughly 7‑9 % versus the prior close. The trade was on elevated volume (about 1.5‑2× the average daily volume) as the market digested the “no‑call” announcement and the disappointing Q2 metrics that accompanied the filing. The price quickly found a brief “bounce‑back” around the $1.12‑$1.15 range before resuming its downtrend, indicating that the sell‑off is still in its early, momentum‑driven phase rather than a fully established break.

Analysts’ initial comments – The first analyst notes that the company’s decision to cancel the earnings call signals a lack of confidence in the underlying results and a reluctance to provide forward‑looking guidance. The consensus view is that revenue and margin fell short of expectations, with the “no‑call” move interpreted as a red flag for transparency. One note on Bloomberg highlighted that “the combination of sub‑par top‑line performance and the abrupt removal of the call leaves little upside for the stock in the near term.” A second analyst added that the current valuation already reflects a high‑growth premium, and the recent miss further erodes that premium, making the stock vulnerable to continued downside pressure.

Trading implications – The immediate technical picture is bearish: the post‑release move broke the prior‑day low and is testing the $1.10 support level, while the 20‑day moving average is now above price. For risk‑averse traders, a short‑position or a protective put could be considered, especially if the price breaches $1.10 on higher volume. More conservative investors may wait for a clear reversal signal—such as a bounce off the $1.12‑$1.15 range with strong buying on the 20‑day SMA—to re‑enter on a better risk‑reward profile. Keep an eye on any follow‑up commentary from the company or a possible revised guidance, which could temporarily cap the downside if the narrative improves.