Why Square Inc's Shares Surged 46% Higher in March

Square reader is a core product for the payment processing company. Image source: Square.

What: Shares of credit card processing company Square Inc jumped a whopping 46% in March, according to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence, after introducing a new product that could have a big impact on its business.

So what: Square launched a product called "Build With Square," which will allow online payments to be accepted through the company's platform. This could help cross-sell Square's services with retailers who use the company's products in-store. This would help tie together Square's existing payment platforms and back office software -- and it could help bring in new customers as well.

Now what: Square has struggled to find its footing, both financially and strategically, since its IPO. But the market is betting that this new offering, along with improved software, will help draw new customers. The company is still expected to report a hefty loss in 2016, but investors should keep an eye out for traction in e-commerce and how it plays a roll in keeping customers within the Square ecosystem. If the company can build a full suite of offerings that small businesses value, that could be the key to unlocking long-term value.

The article Why Square Inc's Shares Surged 46% Higher in March originally appeared on Fool.com.

Travis Hoium has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.