10 Worst Performing NASDAQ Stocks So Far in 2026

In this article, we will discuss the 10 Worst Performing NASDAQ Stocks So Far in 2026.

On May 11, Dan Niles, Niles Investment Management Founder, joined CNBC’s ‘The Exchange’ to discuss the current behavior of technology stocks in the context of historical market bubbles. While the host notes that current earnings and cash flows are far superior to the Pets.com era of the 1990s, Niles maintained that there are distinct similarities to the late-stage internet build-out. He pointed out that after Netscape Navigator launched in late 1994, the NASDAQ rose 109% over the next 3 years, followed by massive gains of 40% in year 4 and 86% in year 5. Comparing this to the current era, he noted that since ChatGPT’s release at the end of 2022, the NASDAQ is already up 122%. Niles suggested that while the market may be in a bubble, it could continue to inflate a lot more before reaching its end, predicting at least one more strong year for the sector.

Niles identified a fundamental shift in AI technology as a primary driver of current market strength. He pointed to the finalization of OpenClaw on January 30th as a major catalyst that ushered in agentic AI. He differentiated this from traditional chat-based AI, explaining that while chat-based models simply provide answers to questions, agentic AI can perform complex tasks. This shift to agentic systems requires 10x to 100x more compute power. This is reflected in token generation data; Niles reported that token growth jumped from 20% in the two months before OpenClaw’s finalization to over 120% in the two months following it. He expects this major step change in token generation to support strong growth through the beginning of next year.

Our Methodology

We used screeners to identify NASDAQ stocks that have exhibited low year-to-date performance, and limited our final selection to companies that have recently reported noteworthy developments likely to impact investor sentiment. These stocks are also popular among analysts and elite hedge funds. The stocks are ranked in descending order of their share price performance.

Note: All data was sourced on May 12. 

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10 Worst Performing NASDAQ Stocks So Far in 2026

10. Cyabra Inc. (NASDAQ:CYAB)

Year-to-Date Performance: -96.22%

Cyabra Inc. (NASDAQ:CYAB) is one of the worst performing NASDAQ stocks so far in 2026. On April 14, Cyabra signed an expanded two-year renewal agreement valued in the six figures with a leading management firm. The contract extends the company’s existing relationship to provide monitoring and protection services for high-profile individuals and their associated teams. Under the new terms, Cyabra will integrate real-time narrative intelligence and authenticity analysis to combat emerging digital threats.

The enhanced scope specifically targets the detection of impersonation, deepfakes, and AI-generated misinformation that can jeopardize reputations and commercial partnerships. By using AI-powered monitoring, the platform identifies inauthentic behavior and coordinated disinformation campaigns across social media and digital channels. This intelligence provides management teams with the evidence necessary to facilitate proactive alerts and takedown decisions.

CEO Dan Brahmy highlighted that the expansion addresses an escalating need for defense against GenAI-manipulated content. The company’s platform is designed to neutralize harmful narratives before they gain traction, protecting stakeholder trust and brand integrity. Cyabra Inc. (NASDAQ:CYAB) expects continued growth in demand for these authenticity verification services as the digital threat landscape for high-profile entities becomes increasingly complex.

Cyabra Inc. (NASDAQ:CYAB) provides enterprises and governments with tools to identify and mitigate manipulated online content, coordinated inauthentic behavior, and narrative distortion. The platform delivers evidence-based insights that enable teams to take swift, proportionate action against digital threats.

9. Aspire Biopharma Holdings (NASDAQ:ASBP)

Year-to-Date Performance: -96.83%

Aspire Biopharma Holdings (NASDAQ:ASBP) is one of the worst performing NASDAQ stocks so far in 2026. On April 27, Aspire Biopharma authorized a $5 million share repurchase program using existing cash. The board initiated the buyback due to confidence in the company’s financial strength, its drug development pipeline, and the potential value of its pending acquisition of Dura Driver Control Systems.

Aspire Biopharma Holdings (NASDAQ:ASBP) recently strengthened its position by securing $21 million in financing and regaining NASDAQ compliance. These milestones support a capital strategy focused on shareholder returns, portfolio diversification through the “Buzz Bomb” supplement line, and disciplined business development.

Clinical efforts remain centered on patent-pending sublingual delivery technology, with an NDA filing for its lead aspirin candidate expected in late 2026. Aspire is also developing sublingual versions of several generic medications and expanding its intellectual property across multiple drug classes.

Aspire Biopharma Holdings (NASDAQ:ASBP) is an early-stage company specializing in disruptive sublingual delivery mechanisms for faster-acting drug administration. Its portfolio includes soluble aspirin for cardiology and pain management, alongside a pipeline of formulations ranging from vitamins and hormones to semaglutide and pre-workout supplements.

8. VCI Global Limited (NASDAQ:VCIG)

Year-to-Date Performance: -97.45%

VCI Global Limited (NASDAQ:VCIG) is one of the worst performing NASDAQ stocks so far in 2026. On May 7, VCI Global entered a binding term sheet for a strategic investment in a Brazilian gold mining asset estimated to contain 59.9 tonnes of gold. The company will act as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction partner and holds an option to acquire a majority 51% stake.

This investment aligns with VCI Global’s strategy to integrate physical commodities into its Real-World Asset/RWA) and digital asset infrastructure. The project is currently in the early development phase, with future progression dependent on technical validation, permitting, and financing.

The transaction features a phased capital deployment plan to fund necessary technical studies. While specific details regarding the asset and counterparties remain confidential for strategic reasons, the move reflects the company’s broader focus on using AI-native platforms to optimize capital allocation across diverse sectors.

VCI Global Limited (NASDAQ:VCIG) is an AI-native operating platform that optimizes business growth through centralized intelligence, data governance, and capital discipline. Its model enables subsidiaries to scale efficiently across diverse industries by focusing on execution, productivity, and long-term value creation.

7. EZGO Technologies (NASDAQ:EZGO)

Year-to-Date Performance: -97.96%

EZGO Technologies (NASDAQ:EZGO) is one of the worst performing NASDAQ stocks so far in 2026. On April 21, EZGO Technologies secured the official real estate ownership certificate for its self-built manufacturing facility in Changzhou, China. This certification confirms that the 36,547-square-meter complex complies with all regulatory requirements and grants the company legal operational rights for the next 50 years. The facility consists of seven reinforced-concrete buildings, including five multi-storey production units and two support structures.

The complex is engineered to significantly scale EZGO’s output, with a planned annual capacity of 100,000 intelligent electric two-wheeled vehicles and 5,000 unmanned service patrol vehicles. Additionally, the site will support the production of 0.5 GWh of graphene-based lightweight power lithium batteries. By integrating R&D and manufacturing, the facility serves as the primary hub for the company’s intelligent mobility and energy storage businesses.

With full legal title confirmed, EZGO Technologies (NASDAQ:EZGO) is transitioning to the equipment installation and production line commissioning phase. Commercial operations are targeted to begin later this year. Management expects the new facility to improve operational efficiency, strengthen manufacturing capabilities, and accelerate product innovation across its electric mobility and battery portfolios.

EZGO Technologies (NASDAQ:EZGO) operates an IoT-driven platform specializing in the design, manufacturing, and sale of electric mobility products and intelligent robots. Their business model also encompasses critical components and infrastructure, including batteries, electronic control systems, and charging facilities.

6. Creative Media & Community Trust Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCT)

Year-to-Date Performance: -98.41%

Creative Media & Community Trust Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCT) is one of the worst performing NASDAQ stocks so far in 2026. On May 8, Creative Media & Community Trust reported a Q1 2026 net loss attributable to common stockholders of $34.7 million, or $70.52 per diluted share. The results reflect the retroactive impact of two separate 1-for-10 reverse stock splits executed in March and April.

The real estate portfolio showed a mix of operational gains and ongoing challenges. Multifamily occupancy improved to 91.4% (excluding a new Echo Park lease-up), while the office portfolio stood at 73.1% leased. Performance in the office segment remained bifurcated; excluding a single underperforming Oakland asset, the office portfolio was 85.7% leased. In the hotel segment, the company completed a large-scale renovation of its 505-room property to position it for improved performance throughout the remainder of the year.

Strategic initiatives focused on liquidity and balance sheet strengthening, highlighted by the January 2026 sale of the “First Western” lending business for ~$44.9 million. Creative Media & Community Trust Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCT) has now retired its recourse credit facility and redeemed a total of $396.2 million in preferred stock since late 2024.

Creative Media & Community Trust Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCT) is a real estate investment trust specializing in premier multifamily and creative office assets across the US. The company focuses on dynamic markets catering to the tech, media, and entertainment sectors while also maintaining hospitality interests.

5. Fitness Champs Holdings Limited (NASDAQ:FCHL)

Year-to-Date Performance: -98.64%

Fitness Champs Holdings Limited (NASDAQ:FCHL) is one of the worst performing NASDAQ stocks so far in 2026. On April 17, Fitness Champs Holdings priced a best-efforts public offering expected to generate ~$5 million in gross proceeds. The offering consists of 3,225,000 units priced at $1.55 per unit, with each unit including one Class A ordinary share and a warrant to purchase an additional share at $2.635. The transaction closed around April 20, subject to customary conditions.

The Singapore-based aquatic sports provider plans to use the net proceeds for business expansion, general working capital, and other corporate purposes. Univest Securities, LLC is serving as the sole placement agent for the offering, which was conducted under a registration statement declared effective by the SEC in late March.

As a major provider of swimming lessons in Singapore, including the Ministry of Education’s SwimSafer program, the company intends to leverage this capital to diversify its sports education portfolio. In addition to its established swimming, water polo, and lifesaving programs, Fitness Champs is planning to expand its offerings into other sports, such as pickleball.

Fitness Champs Holdings Limited (NASDAQ:FCHL) is a Singapore-based aquatic sports provider offering swimming, water polo, and lifesaving lessons for all ages. The company aims to promote water safety and fitness while expanding its curriculum into other sports like pickleball.

4. Cheetah Net Supply Chain Service Inc. (NASDAQ:CTNT)

Year-to-Date Performance: -98.91%

Cheetah Net Supply Chain Service Inc. (NASDAQ:CTNT) is one of the worst performing NASDAQ stocks so far in 2026. On April 16, Cheetah Net Supply Chain Service entered a Share Transfer Agreement to acquire 100% of Super International Trading Limited, a Hong Kong-based firm specializing in large-scale industrial equipment trading. The total purchase price is ~$4.98 million in cash. The deal is expected to close within three months, at which point Super International will become a wholly owned subsidiary of the company.

The agreement includes a performance-based provision requiring the seller to guarantee a minimum of $10 million in annual revenue for the first 3 years post-acquisition. Shortfalls must be compensated in cash to Cheetah Net, while revenue exceeding the $10 million threshold over five years will trigger additional cash or equivalent payments to the transferor.

Cheetah Net expects the acquisition to enhance its cross-border trading capabilities and expand its supply chain service offerings. By integrating Super International’s established supplier relationships and customer base, the company aims to create strategic synergies with its existing logistics infrastructure and reinforce its market position as an integrated service provider.

Cheetah Net Supply Chain Service Inc. (NASDAQ:CTNT) provides global logistics, warehousing, and freight forwarding services for diverse goods. Formerly known as Yuan Qiu Business Group, the company facilitates international trade through comprehensive ocean, air, and trucking solutions.

3. SMX (Security Matters) PLC (NASDAQ:SMX)

Year-to-Date Performance: -99.23%

SMX (Security Matters) PLC (NASDAQ:SMX) is one of the worst performing NASDAQ stocks so far in 2026. On May 7, SMX launched its Digital Material Passport Platform, a system that integrates molecular marking technology to provide physical materials with a verified digital identity. By embedding invisible markers directly into materials, the platform enables end-to-end traceability, allowing companies to verify origin, composition, and recycled content throughout a product’s entire lifecycle.

The platform is designed to replace traditional paper-based documentation with material-linked proof, targeting industries such as plastics, textiles, and metals. This infrastructure supports global supply chain transparency, assisting brands and regulators in authenticating products and verifying environmental compliance claims more reliably.

SMX (Security Matters) PLC (NASDAQ:SMX) began rolling out access to existing partners in April and opened bookings for new clients on May 4. The launch represents a strategic move toward a “proof-based materials economy,” where the physical assets themselves carry the data necessary for authentication, recycling verification, and responsible supply-chain management.

SMX (Security Matters) PLC (NASDAQ:SMX) offers molecular marking and digital traceability technology to create tamper-resistant identities for physical materials. These solutions enable authentication and lifecycle transparency to ensure compliance across global supply chains.

2. Chanson International Holding (NASDAQ:CHSN)

Year-to-Date Performance: -99.36%

Chanson International Holding (NASDAQ:CHSN) is one of the worst performing NASDAQ stocks so far in 2026. On May 7, Chanson International officially commenced construction on a fully digitalized and automated bakery production base in Urumqi, China. Supported by the local government, this project focuses on AI-driven intelligent manufacturing to upgrade the company’s industrial capabilities. The facility will feature advanced equipment, such as Swiss Rondo production lines and IoT-integrated ovens, using AI algorithms to optimize baking parameters and improve overall production efficiency.

The new facility is designed with a modular manufacturing approach to support rapid product switching and small-batch customization. To enhance supply chain transparency and quality control, Chanson International Holding (NASDAQ:CHSN) is integrating blockchain-based traceability for raw materials and advanced visual inspection systems. Additionally, the company is collaborating with local partners to establish a specialized cold-chain logistics network, aiming to improve inventory turnover and ensure product quality across its nationwide distribution in China.

Sustainability is a key component of the development, with plans to install rooftop solar panels and ground-source heat pumps to improve energy efficiency. Once completed, the production base is expected to materially expand capacity for both Chanson’s franchise and directly operated stores. Management believes this integration of technology and advanced logistics will provide a scalable foundation for the company’s long-term growth and store network expansion.

Chanson International Holding (NASDAQ:CHSN) is a bakery and beverage provider operating dozens of stores across China and NYC. The company delivers healthy, trend-driven products through both physical locations and digital platforms, aiming to provide a high-quality, comfortable dining experience.

1. Hitek Global Inc. (NASDAQ:HKIT)

Year-to-Date Performance: -99.42%

Hitek Global Inc. (NASDAQ:HKIT) is one of the worst performing NASDAQ stocks so far in 2026. On April 24, Hitek Global reported a revenue increase for FY2025, reaching ~$6.5 million compared to $2.9 million in 2024. This growth was fueled by a surge in hardware sales, which rose to $6.1 million due to high demand for safety monitoring equipment from petrochemical companies. However, the company faced declines in its tax devices and software sectors, as free government electronic invoices and reduced procurement from large customers impacted these traditionally high-margin segments.

Despite the top-line growth, gross profit fell to $0.7 million, with gross margins contracting sharply to 10.6% from 34.6% the previous year. This margin compression was a direct result of the shift in revenue mix toward lower-margin hardware sales and away from software services, which typically yield margins exceeding 50%. On the expense side, G&A costs decreased by 10%, aided by the absence of equity transaction fees and lower charitable donations.

The company achieved a net income of $180,142, a notable recovery from the net loss of ~$0.9 million recorded in 2024. This turnaround was bolstered by a $1.0 million increase in net investment income. As of December 31, 2025, Hitek Global Inc. (NASDAQ:HKIT) maintained a cash position of $3.6 million. Moving forward, management expects a recovery in software sales as updated offerings meet market demand and new contracts are finalized.

Hitek Global Inc. (NASDAQ:HKIT) is an IT consulting provider offering tax device services to SMEs alongside hardware and software solutions for large businesses. The company aims to become a holistic, one-stop consulting destination while expanding its system integration and online service platforms.

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