Why This Time Could Be Different for 3D Printing Stocks The ARK 3D Printing ETF (CBOE: PRNT) is higher by 24% year-to-date and has more than doubled in value over the past year, confirming that 3D printing stocks are roaring back to life. However, some investors still remember the 2013 bust in 3D printing stocks, prompting thoughts about whether or not this time will be different. Back then, 3D printing equities were seen as one of the original disruptive technologies – a trait that holds true today. But hype permeated the market and the related stocks fell almost as rapidly as they surged.