IAC(US:IAC)2025-11-04 14:30Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - IAC reported a 9% digital revenue growth in Q3, marking the eighth consecutive quarter of growth, with strong performance in licensing and performance marketing [13][14] - Digital-adjusted EBITDA grew 9% pro forma to $72 million, with 27% margins, and the company expects digital revenue growth in the 7%-10% range for Q4 [30][31] - The company has a cash balance exceeding $1 billion, which will be enhanced by selling non-core assets [11][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - People Inc. achieved a digital revenue growth of 9% in Q3, driven by its iconic portfolio of brands and strong audience engagement [14][15] - The print division saw a 15% revenue decline, but adjusted EBITDA only declined by 10%, indicating effective cost management [30] - Off-platform audience growth accelerated by 66% year-over-year, contributing significantly to revenue [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Google Search traffic as a source for core brands dropped from 54% two years ago to 24% in the latest quarter, but overall audience scale has been maintained [19][20] - Ad revenue declined by 3% in Q3, primarily due to volume-related issues rather than rate-related [21] - The macro environment appears solid for middle and upper-end consumers, while pressures are noted in the lower-end market [46][47] Company Strategy and Development Direction - IAC aims to streamline its assets, focusing on People and MGM, while divesting non-core holdings and reducing overhead [4][5] - The company is reimagining People Inc. to transition from a defensive to an offensive strategy, leveraging its brands to create new business opportunities [5][6] - MGM is viewed as a hedge against disintermediation, with a strong position in Las Vegas and a focus on digital opportunities [8][9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the future of People Inc. and MGM, highlighting the potential for growth despite current challenges [13][41] - The company is optimistic about upcoming AI-related deals and the value of its content in the evolving digital landscape [23][24] - Management acknowledged the impact of Google litigation costs but views the spending as worthwhile given the potential for significant damages [40][45] Other Important Information - The company laid off about 6% of its workforce to free up capital for investments and maintain profitability goals [27] - IAC has repurchased $300 million worth of shares year-to-date, representing about 8% of its outstanding shares [33] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers Question: Current thinking on MGM's valuation and why invest through IAC - Management believes that investing in MGM through IAC offers a cheaper entry point and provides additional value from IAC's other assets [34][38] Question: One-time expense cleanup in Q3 - Management indicated that significant one-time expenses have been cleaned up and do not expect similar charges in the future [39] Question: Update on the state of the business and Google litigation - Management expressed confidence in the business's future, citing the Microsoft AI deal and the Feedfeed acquisition as positive indicators [41][42][45] Question: Macro environment observations - The macro environment is solid for middle and upper-end consumers, with some pressures noted in the lower-end market [46][47] Question: Capital allocation strategy moving forward - Management emphasized a focus on opportunistic share buybacks rather than pursuing high-priced acquisitions [49]