Workflow
UBER Vs. GRAB: Which Ride-Hailing Stock Has Better Upside Potential?
ZACKSยท2025-09-11 15:11

Core Insights - Uber Technologies (UBER) and Grab (GRAB) are both key players in the ride-hailing industry, each with unique business models and geographical focuses [1][2] - Uber operates globally while Grab is concentrated in Southeast Asia, providing a range of services including mobility, deliveries, and digital financial services [2][3] Uber's Performance and Strategy - Uber is experiencing increased demand across its ride-sharing and delivery platforms, supported by new growth initiatives and cost discipline [4] - For Q3 2025, Uber anticipates gross bookings between $48.25 billion and $49.75 billion, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 17-21% [5] - The adjusted EBITDA for the same period is projected to be between $2.19 billion and $2.29 billion, indicating a year-over-year growth of 30-36% [5] - A recent partnership with Best Buy enhances Uber Eats by allowing delivery of consumer electronics, diversifying its delivery ecosystem [6][7] - Uber is strategically entering the robotaxi market through partnerships, avoiding high R&D costs associated with autonomous systems [8] - The company announced a stock repurchase authorization of up to $20 billion, signaling confidence in its business strategy [9] Grab's Performance and Strategy - Grab expects 2025 revenues between $3.33 billion and $3.40 billion, indicating a year-over-year growth of 19-22% [12] - The company has transformed from a taxi-hailing app to an "everyday everything app," offering various services including food delivery and digital payments [13] - Grab's On-Demand Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) rose 21% year-over-year in Q2 2025, reflecting strong growth in its mobility and delivery segments [14] - A partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) aims to enhance operational efficiency and drive growth across Grab's services [15][16] - Grab is making a strategic equity investment in WeRide to advance the deployment of Level 4 robotaxis in Southeast Asia [17] Comparative Analysis - Uber's forward sales multiple is 3.45, while Grab's is higher at 5.6, indicating that Grab may be more expensive relative to its sales [18] - Uber's market capitalization stands at $199.05 billion, positioning it well to navigate uncertain economic conditions, while Grab's market cap is significantly smaller at $21.3 billion [19][20] - Economic pressures in Southeast Asia are impacting Grab more severely due to its narrower geographical focus and intense competition in the delivery segment [20] Conclusion - Based on the analysis, Uber appears to be a more favorable investment compared to Grab, despite both companies currently holding a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold) [21]