3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) stock fell more than 25% on February 5 when the company slashed its FY2013 earnings guidance. But the stock has shown some strength over the past two trading sessions. 3D Systems shares jumped 4.5% on Friday, and another 4.4% on Tuesday to close at $77.14. There have been two significant developments driving the stock up.
3D Systems signed a deal with Hasbro
The Rock Hill, South Carolina-based company announced Friday that it has joined hands with toy maker Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ:HAS) to develop and market play 3D platforms and printers. Play 3D printers would attract people who want to provide their kids with play experiences that are both fun and educational. It’s not the first time 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) has partnered with a dominant company in its industry. Recently, the Walter Loewenbaum-led company teamed up with Hershey Co (NYSE:HSY) to make 3D printed edibles. Hershey is the largest chocolate company in the United States.
Late last year, the company partnered with the world’s second most valuable company – Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) – for Project Ara. They will be working together to develop a large scale 3D printing manufacturing platform that can make customizable smartphones, according to The Motley Fool.
3D Systems prints first-ever robotic exoskeleton
On Tuesday, 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) announced that it has developed the world’s first 3D printed hybrid robotic exoskeleton in collaboration with Ekso Bionics. The suite was custom-made for Amanda Boxtel, who has been paralyzed from the waist down since 1992. The hybrid suite enabled her to stand and walk tall with the help of crutches.
3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) first scanned the spine, shins and thighs of Amanda, and then a 3D printer produced the Ekso suit on the basis of the scans. It highlights the strength of 3D printing. The technology can be used to produce custom-made products for individuals. That’s very important when it comes to medical devices like dental implants, orthopedic implants and exoskeletons.
3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) shares were down 0.89% to $76.45 at 12:39 PM EST on Wednesday.
