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Industry Overview - The Internet-Software & Services industry is closely tied to the economy, with initial estimates declining due to anticipated negative impacts from tariffs, inflation, and interest rate decisions [1] - The industry is currently experiencing operating leverage, leading to improved margins as revenue has rebounded alongside capital investments [1] Key Companies - Companies like Globant (GLOB) and NetEase (NTES) are notable for their global operations, which spread revenue and risk internationally [2] - Both companies have established client retention systems through subscriptions and platforms, and are leveraging AI in their operations [2] Long-term Outlook - The industry is considered the backbone of the digital economy, with a diverse range of players contributing to its resilience [3] - Valuations have significantly decreased, making the industry attractive at current levels [3] Technology Adoption - The level of technology adoption by businesses is crucial for growth, with many companies enhancing their platforms for AI development [7] - The increasing demand for cloud-based software and services is driving infrastructure buildout, which raises costs and affects profitability [7] Market Performance - The Zacks Internet – Software & Services Industry has outperformed the broader Zacks Computer and Technology Sector and the S&P 500, returning 41.8% over the past year compared to 29% and 20.3% respectively [12] - The industry is currently trading at a median forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 22.15X, which is a 2.4% discount to the S&P 500 and a 21.3% discount to the technology sector [15] Company Highlights: Globant (GLOB) - Globant has shown impressive growth with a revenue CAGR of 28.3% from 2014 to 2024, while improving customer concentration [21] - The company is focusing on AI-related opportunities and has a subscription model that provides steady revenue inflows [20] - In the last quarter, Globant's revenue grew 7% year-over-year, but it missed the Zacks Consensus estimate by 5.7% [23] Company Highlights: NetEase (NTES) - NetEase focuses on diverse online services, including gaming and education, and has a strong in-house R&D team [27] - The gaming segment has shown significant momentum, with recent titles performing well [28] - NetEase's shares have gained 43.8% over the past year, with earnings for the March quarter exceeding estimates by 23.5% [29]

Core Points - Shutterstock's stockholders approved the merger agreement with Getty Images, with approximately 82% of the shares voting in favor [1][2][3] - The merger aims to create a premier visual content company, enhancing capabilities in content creation, event coverage, and technology innovation [2][3] - The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2025, pending regulatory approvals and customary conditions [3] Company Overview - Shutterstock is a leading global creative platform providing high-quality creative content for brands, digital media, and marketing companies [5] - The platform is supported by millions of creators and offers a diverse collection of 3D models, videos, music, photographs, vectors, and illustrations [5] - Shutterstock aims to deliver exceptional value to partners, contributors, and stockholders through its innovative technology and comprehensive resources [5]

Industry Overview - The Zacks Film and Television Production and Distribution industry is experiencing increased demand for digital entertainment due to operational constraints in traditional venues like movie theaters and theme parks, driven by the work-from-home trend [1] - Companies such as Live Nation Entertainment, TKO Group Holdings, and CuriosityStream are benefiting from this trend, although rising content costs are pressuring profitability [1] Industry Trends - Over-the-top (OTT) services are gaining prominence as content creators distribute through these platforms to leverage franchise popularity, while streaming companies are producing original programming to reduce reliance on third-party content [3] - Binge-watching and advancements in technology are leading to increased consumption of content on smaller screens, prompting industry players to pivot towards digital distribution [4] - Technological advancements, including laser projection systems and immersive experiences, are enhancing the viewing experience, but alternative distribution channels are challenging traditional exhibitors [5] Financial Performance - The Zacks Film and Television Production and Distribution industry ranks 155, placing it in the bottom 37% of over 246 Zacks industries, indicating a negative earnings outlook [6][8] - Despite a gloomy outlook, the industry has outperformed the broader Zacks Consumer Discretionary sector and the S&P 500, returning 46.8% over the past year compared to 17.3% and 10.9% respectively [10] Valuation Metrics - The industry is currently trading at a trailing 12-month price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 2.79X, lower than the S&P 500's 5.33X and the sector's 2.31X [12] Company Highlights - **CuriosityStream**: Achieved its first positive net income and adjusted EBITDA, with a 26% year-over-year revenue growth to $15.1 million, driven by a $4 million increase in licensing revenues [15][16] - **Live Nation Entertainment**: Reported record-breaking deferred revenue levels of $5.4 billion for concerts, up 24% year-over-year, with 95 million concert tickets sold for 2025 events [21][22] - **TKO Group Holdings**: Reported revenues of $1.27 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $417.4 million, reflecting a 23% year-over-year growth, bolstered by acquisitions and strong performance from UFC and WWE [26][27]