CHICAGO, July 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vivid Seats Inc. (NASDAQ:SEAT) (“Vivid Seats”), a leading marketplace that utilizes its technology platform to connect millions of buyers with thousands of ticket sellers across hundreds of thousands of events each year, will report financial results for the second quarter 2025 on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, before the U.S. stock market opens. Management will discuss the results on a webcast at 8:30 a.m. ET. The live webcast and replay can be accessed at https://inves ...

Eventbrite (EB) FY Conference Summary Company Overview - Eventbrite is a leading ticketing platform aiming to evolve into a marketplace for experiences, leveraging two decades of experience in cultivating relationships on both supply and demand sides [4][5][6]. Core Points and Arguments Marketplace Transformation - The transition to a marketplace is seen as a natural progression for Eventbrite, with significant upside potential due to existing strong brand recognition and traffic of 90 million unique users [4][5]. - The relaunch of the brand and app is expected to drive user engagement and demand generation, enhancing the platform's ability to serve creators [5][6][14]. Competitive Landscape - Eventbrite holds approximately 14% of the $28 billion global mid-market events gross bookings, with a fragmented competitive landscape where no single competitor dominates [16][19]. - The company is positioned as the second most trafficked site after Ticketmaster, indicating strong market presence [20]. Industry Growth - The live experiences market is expected to continue growing, driven by increasing consumer interest in human connection and live events [17][18]. - The company anticipates that the market will benefit from tailwinds, suggesting a positive outlook for growth [18]. Financial Discipline and Cost Management - Eventbrite is focused on maintaining operational discipline and controlling expenses, with a goal to return to growth without relying heavily on performance marketing [10][12][55]. - The company aims to grow revenue faster than operating expenses, with a focus on margin expansion through efficient cost management [56]. Revenue Components - Marketplace revenue, which currently makes up about 8% of total revenue, includes premium subscription services and advertising, with advertising expected to become the largest component over time [36][37]. - The take rate is expected to increase as the company grows volume and market share, although the timing and extent of this increase will be carefully managed to maintain positive relationships with creators [47][48]. Creator Engagement and Recovery - The company experienced a loss of creators due to the introduction of organizer fees, which have since been reversed. Efforts are underway to win back lost creators through product enhancements and targeted outreach [25][26][27][30]. - The sales team is expected to play a crucial role in re-engaging creators and driving growth in paid ticket volume [34][35]. Capital Allocation and Financial Position - Eventbrite has $551 million in cash, with $241 million available for liquidity after accounting for creator payables. The company is positioned to manage its debt effectively while exploring non-dilutive financing options [58][60][62]. - The focus is on balancing the cost of debt with the flexibility it provides, with potential share buybacks considered once financial stability is demonstrated [62][63]. Other Important Insights - The company is optimistic about the potential for increased awareness and interest in live experiences, particularly with competitors like Airbnb entering the space, which could benefit Eventbrite [24]. - The emphasis on community features and user engagement within the app is seen as critical for driving demand and enhancing the overall user experience [14][15]. This summary encapsulates the key points discussed during the Eventbrite FY Conference, highlighting the company's strategic direction, market positioning, and financial outlook.

Core Insights - The WNBA is experiencing a significant rise in fan interest and ticket demand, with a 49% year-over-year increase in average ticket prices, indicating a growing relevance and reach for women's basketball [2][3] Ticket Demand and Pricing - The average ticket price for WNBA games has increased by 49% year-over-year, reflecting heightened demand for women's basketball [2] - The most in-demand tickets for the 2025 season include the WNBA All Star Game priced at $533, followed by the Indiana Fever's game against the Golden State Valkyries at $519 [5][7] Fan Engagement and Travel - Fans are traveling an average of 346 miles to attend WNBA games, which is a 12% increase compared to the previous year [3] - The Las Vegas Aces lead the league in average travel distance, with fans traveling an impressive 578 miles to see them play [10][14] Team Popularity - The Indiana Fever have emerged as the most favored team in the U.S., dominating in 13 states, followed by the Las Vegas Aces in 8 states and the Connecticut Sun in 6 states [6][8] - The Indiana Fever are featured in four of the top five most in-demand games for the 2025 season, highlighting their strong fan engagement [4][6] Impact of New Talent - The Dallas Wings experienced a 920% spike in website traffic after winning the 2025 WNBA Draft Lottery and selecting Paige Bueckers as the No. 1 overall pick, indicating a significant boost in fan interest [9] - The average ticket prices for Dallas Wings games have increased by 74% year-over-year, showcasing the impact of new talent on franchise popularity [9]

Eventbrite (EB) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 08, 2025 05:00 PM ET Company Participants Megan Manaster - Investor RelationJulia Hartz - Co-Founder, Executive Chairman & CEOAnand Gandhi - CFORyan Powell - Senior Equity Research AssociateHamed Khorsand - PrincipalDae Lee - VP - Equity Research Conference Call Participants Cameron Mansson-Perrone - Analyst Operator Good day, everyone, and welcome to the Eventbrite, Inc. First Quarter twenty twenty five Earnings Conference Call. At this time, all participants have ...

Eventbrite (EB) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 08, 2025 05:00 PM ET Company Participants Megan Manaster - Investor RelationJulia Hartz - Co-Founder, Executive Chairman & CEOAnand Gandhi - CFORyan Powell - Senior Equity Research AssociateHamed Khorsand - PrincipalDae Lee - VP - Equity Research Conference Call Participants Cameron Mansson-Perrone - Analyst Operator Good day, everyone, and welcome to the Eventbrite, Inc. First Quarter twenty twenty five Earnings Conference Call. At this time, all participants have ...

Eventbrite (EB) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 08, 2025 05:00 PM ET Speaker0 Good day, everyone, and welcome to the Eventbrite, Inc. First Quarter twenty twenty five Earnings Conference Call. At this time, all participants have been placed on a listen only mode. If you have any questions or comments during the presentation, you may press star one on your phone to enter the question queue at any time, and we will open the floor for your questions and comments after the presentation. It is now my pleasure to turn ...

Q1 2025 Results - Paid tickets reached 19.6 million, a 7.7% year-over-year decrease, showing a 250 basis points improvement from Q4 2024's 10.2% decline[19] - Gross ticket sales totaled $775 million, down 9% year-over-year[11] - Net revenue was $73.8 million, a 14% decrease year-over-year, attributed to lower marketplace revenue (-48% Y/Y) and ticketing revenue (-9% Y/Y)[27] - Net loss amounted to $6.6 million, compared to a $4.5 million net loss in the prior year[31] - Adjusted EBITDA was $4.6 million, with an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 6.2%[34] - Operating expenses decreased by 14% year-over-year to $59.2 million[37] User Engagement - Average Monthly Active Users (MAUs) reached 87.6 million, a 3% year-over-year increase, driven by app MAUs growth after the rebrand and app refresh[23] - Average app monthly active users increased 13% year-over-year[21] Financial Position - Available liquidity stood at $241 million after repaying $120 million principal of 2025 notes[43, 42] - Total debt outstanding is $358 million[42] - Stock-based compensation decreased by 27% year-over-year[40] Business Outlook - The company anticipates Q2 2025 net revenue to be in the range of $70 million to $73 million with an Adjusted EBITDA margin in the 3% to 4% range[46] - The company expects fiscal year 2025 net revenue in the range of $295 million to $310 million with an Adjusted EBITDA margin in the mid-single digit percentage range[47]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, the company reported $820 million in Marketplace Gross Order Value (GOV), a decrease of 20% year-over-year [13] - Total revenues for Q1 were $164 million, down 14% year-over-year, with owned property revenues also declining by 14% and private label revenues down 27% [13] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 was $22 million, a significant drop from $39 million in the prior year, attributed to lower volume and higher marketing expenses as a percentage of revenue [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Marketplace orders decreased by 20% compared to Q1 2024, while the average order size remained flat year-over-year [13] - The marketplace take rate increased to 16.3%, up 70 basis points from 15.6% in Q1 2024, with expectations for near-term take rates to be in the range of 15.5% to 16% [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted robust competitive intensity and softening industry trends amid consumer uncertainty, impacting how artists and rights holders approach the market [6] - The concert landscape has shown volatility, with year-over-year volume trends fluctuating significantly, while sports events have seen a decline due to tough comparisons from previous years [35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on cost discipline while making strategic investments in marketing and technology to enhance product development and customer experience [7] - Plans for international expansion are underway, with a focus on building out capabilities and scaling the platform in favorable markets [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term resilience of the industry despite current economic pressures, emphasizing the importance of live experiences over goods [6] - The company has suspended guidance for the remainder of 2025 due to increased variability in the global economy and potential consumer softness [15] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $7 million worth of shares at an average price of $2.89 during the quarter [15] - The company is committed to its Corporate Responsibility and Governance Strategy, highlighting progress in sustainability goals [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the performance marketing changes and competitive intensity? - Management noted changes in the Google channel affecting data reporting, leading to increased bidding and decreased efficiency across the industry [19][20] Question: Have you seen any changes in industry expectations? - Management indicated a softening in expectations due to broader economic conditions, despite some bounce-back in April [25] Question: Are artists delaying tours due to macro uncertainty? - Management acknowledged volatility in the industry, with a seasonal low in market activity observed [28] Question: What are your thoughts on cash conversion to EBITDA and capital allocation? - Management expects limited cash generation for the year due to declining EBITDA and working capital pressures [37] Question: How do you view market share dynamics in a flat to down industry? - Management indicated that GOV being down 20% could reflect share impact, primarily from performance marketing channels [42] Question: What is the impact of regulatory changes on the industry? - Management supports regulations aimed at transparency and believes their lean cost structure positions them favorably [62] Question: How is the company addressing marketing channel mix? - Management is focusing on diversifying away from competitively pressured channels and leveraging partnerships to drive growth [70]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, the company reported $820 million in Marketplace Gross Order Value (GOV), a decrease of 20% year-over-year [12] - Total revenues for Q1 were $164 million, down 14% year-over-year [12] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 was $22 million, down from $39 million in the prior year [13] - The marketplace take rate increased to 16.3%, up 70 basis points from 15.6% in Q1 2024 [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Owned property revenues decreased by 14%, while private label revenues declined by 27% [12] - Marketplace orders were down 20% compared to Q1 2024, with average order size remaining flat year-over-year [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted robust competitive intensity and softening industry trends amidst consumer uncertainty [5] - There was a bounce back in April after a softening in February and March, but overall consumer sentiment remains volatile [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on cost discipline while making strategic investments in marketing and technology [6] - Upcoming app enhancements will aim to improve customer experience and engagement [6] - The company is committed to expanding its Total Addressable Market (TAM) and international capabilities [8] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term resilience of the live events industry despite current pressures [5] - The company is suspending guidance for the remainder of 2025 due to increased variability in the global economy and potential consumer softness [14] - Management emphasized the importance of operational discipline and strategic investments for long-term success [10] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $7 million worth of shares at an average price of $2.89 during the quarter [14] - The partnership with United Airlines is expected to contribute positively in the second half of 2025 [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the competitive environment and performance marketing changes? - Management noted changes in the Google channel affecting data reporting, leading to increased bidding and decreased efficiency across the industry [20][21] Question: Have you seen any changes in industry expectations? - Management indicated a conservative approach due to broader economic conditions, with expectations for a flat to down industry [24][26] Question: Are artists delaying tours due to macro uncertainty? - Management acknowledged volatility in the industry, with some seasonal lows in market activity [29] Question: What are your thoughts on cash conversion to EBITDA and capital allocation? - Management expects limited cash generation for the year due to declining EBITDA and working capital pressures [38] Question: How do you view market share dynamics? - Management indicated that GOV being down 20% could reflect share impact, particularly from performance marketing channels [42][43] Question: Can you provide insights on the marketing channel mix? - Management is focusing on diversifying marketing channels and leveraging partnerships to mitigate competitive pressures [71][74] Question: What is the impact of regulatory changes on the industry? - Management supports regulations aimed at price transparency and believes it will create a level playing field [65][66]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2024, the company reported revenues of $200 million, a 1% increase year-over-year, and adjusted EBITDA of $33 million, a 5% decrease year-over-year [7][26] - For the full year 2024, revenues reached $776 million, a 9% increase year-over-year, while adjusted EBITDA was $151 million, a 7% increase year-over-year [7][26] - The company generated $994 million in marketplace Gross Order Value (GOV) in Q4 2024, an 11% decrease year-over-year, with a 12% reduction in total marketplace orders [24][26] - The average order size increased by 2% year-over-year in Q4 2024 [24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The loyalty program, Vivid Seats Rewards, saw repeat orders increase to 61% of total orders, indicating a strong trend in customer retention [10] - The Game Center initiative led to a doubling of app downloads year-over-year and quarter-over-quarter in Q4 2024, contributing to increased engagement [12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The live event industry is expected to return to growth in 2025, following a muted 2024, with consumers prioritizing spending on live experiences [8] - The company is expanding its Total Addressable Market (TAM) through acquisitions and international expansion, with a focus on the UK and other European countries [15][36] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to increase investments in marketing and technology to drive long-term growth, despite competitive intensity in the market [22][30] - Strategic partnerships, such as with United Airlines, are aimed at enhancing customer engagement and expanding the user base [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth of the live events market, despite the competitive landscape in 2024 [6][21] - The company anticipates a return to top-line growth in the second half of 2025, aided by easier comparisons and new partnerships [21][29] Other Important Information - The company reduced the interest rate on its term loan, resulting in annualized savings of $3 million [26] - The guidance for 2025 includes marketplace GOV expectations of $3.7 billion to $4.1 billion and revenues of $730 million to $810 million [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: International expansion and EBITDA impact - Management confirmed the launch in the UK and expressed optimism about expanding into other European countries, with a focus on achieving scale before prioritizing profits [36][37] Question: Concert pipeline and North American activity - Management noted a mixed outlook for concert activity, with early 2025 showing solid growth but recent weeks indicating a neutral to negative trend [40][41] Question: Market share competition and loyalty program - Management emphasized the importance of repeat users and the effectiveness of the loyalty program in maintaining customer engagement [46][48] Question: Strategic M&A and buyback plans - Management indicated that share buybacks are a core part of their capital allocation strategy, but they remain cautious about M&A opportunities in the near term [50][104] Question: Marketing expenses and macroeconomic impacts - Management stated that marketing expenses are expected to align with volume, and they are monitoring macroeconomic conditions closely [72][78]