This story was originally published on CFO Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily CFO Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: Retail sales exceeded forecasts in August and rose 0.6%, increasing for the third straight month despite job market weakness and sagging consumer sentiment. Nine out of 13 categories of goods registered gains, with e-commerce sales rising 2% and receipts at clothing stores and sporting goods and hobby shops increasing 1% and 0.8%, respectively, the Commerce De ...

Core Insights - Expedia Group (EXPE) is set to report its second-quarter 2025 results on August 7, with expected revenues of $3.71 billion, reflecting a 4.39% increase year-over-year, and earnings estimated at $4.14 per share, indicating a 17.95% rise from the previous year [1][3]. Financial Performance Expectations - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for EXPE's second-quarter 2025 revenues is $3.71 billion, a 4.39% increase from the same quarter last year [1]. - The consensus for earnings is $4.14 per share, which is a $0.01 increase over the past 30 days and represents a 17.95% increase year-over-year [1]. Recent Performance Trends - EXPE has surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings in three of the last four quarters, with an average surprise of 5.48% [2]. - The company anticipates gross bookings growth of 2-4% and revenue growth of 3-5%, with a one-point benefit from the Easter shift and a two-point foreign exchange headwind [3][9]. Market Dynamics - The performance in the second quarter is expected to be influenced by ongoing challenges in the U.S. market, resilience in international markets, and cost optimization efforts [3]. - Domestic travel softness and reduced inbound flows may have impacted B2C performance due to EXPE's significant U.S. market exposure [4]. Segment Performance - The B2B segment is expected to be a key growth driver, likely maintaining double-digit momentum supported by expanded partnerships and strength in the APAC region [5]. - Advertising revenues are projected to show robust growth, aided by increased partner participation and new advertising solutions, with AI-driven tools enhancing platform adoption [6]. Operational Efficiency - Management expects adjusted EBITDA margin expansion of 75-100 basis points year-over-year, driven by operational efficiency initiatives and cost discipline measures, including restructuring actions affecting approximately 4% of employees [7].