Technology

Can ParkerVision Be Saved?

Cell Tower detail
Source: Thinkstock
Radio frequency (RF) technology company ParkerVision Inc. (NASDAQ: PRKR) has had a rough couple of days. Shares have dropped nearly 70% of their value since Monday, following a U.S. District Court’s ruling against it in the company’s long-running patent infringement battle with Qualcomm Inc. (NASDAQ: QCOM).

The court denied Qualcomm’s motion for a new trial on grounds that ParkerVision’s patent was invalid, but granted a new trial on the grounds of non-infringement. ParkerVision said it would appeal the ruling.

In February 2013, ParkerVision won a round in the case it first brought in 2011 against Qualcomm for infringing on RF technology used to capture data from cell phone carriers in a standard handset. ParkerVision was seeking about $430 million in damages, but in October of last year a jury agreed that Qualcomm had infringed ParkerVision’s patent and awarded the company $173 million in damages.

Monday’s ruling essentially overturned that patent award and now ParkerVision’s stock price has evaporated. Whether ParkerVision can prevail on an appeal is certainly no better than a 50/50 proposition.

The stock traded around $0.40 a share in December of 2010, before the company brought its suit against Qualcomm. The stock spiked to nearly $7.80 a share when the $173 million damage award was announced.

The stock closed at $1.54 on Tuesday, down 16.7% from its opening price of $1.80. Shares closed at $5.01 last Friday and opened Monday at $1.25 on news of the court ruling.

ALSO READ: America’s Most Profitable Products

Essential Tips for Investing: Sponsored

A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.