IAC(US:IAC)2025-11-04 14:32Financial 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 [16][31] - Digital-adjusted EBITDA grew 9% pro forma to $72 million, with 27% margins, and overall adjusted EBITDA reached $75 million, exceeding previous guidance [31][32] - The company has a cash balance exceeding $1 billion, which will be enhanced by the sale of non-core assets [14][32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - People Inc. achieved a 9% growth in digital revenue, driven by its iconic brands and diversified revenue sources [16][31] - The print division saw a 10% decline in adjusted EBITDA and a 15% revenue decline, which was considered acceptable by management [32] - Off-platform audience growth accelerated by 66% year-over-year, contributing significantly to revenue [24] 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 was maintained [22] - Ad revenue declined by 3% due to volume-related issues, with expectations for recovery in Q4 [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - IAC aims to streamline its assets, focusing on People Inc. and MGM, while divesting non-core holdings [5][7] - The strategy includes reimagining People Inc. from a defensive to an offensive position, leveraging its brands to create new business opportunities [6][9] - MGM is viewed as a hedge against disintermediation, with a strong position in Las Vegas and plans to increase ownership [10][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the future, citing strong performance in digital revenue and audience engagement [16][29] - The macroeconomic environment is stable for higher-end consumers, while pressures exist in the lower-end market [66] - Management expects continued growth in digital revenue and profitability despite challenges from Google [23][32] Other Important Information - The company laid off about 6% of its workforce to free up capital for investments [29] - IAC has entered into a partnership with Microsoft for a publisher content marketplace, indicating a proactive approach to monetizing content in the AI landscape [25][26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on MGM's valuation and investor interest - Management believes owning MGM through IAC offers additional value and optionality, despite the current market discount [39][44] Question: Update on one-time expenses - Management indicated that significant one-time expenses have been cleaned up, with a clear path forward for profitability [40][45] Question: State of the business and Google litigation update - Management expressed confidence in the business's future, highlighting the importance of recent deals and the potential for significant damages from the Google litigation [52][58] Question: Macro environment insights - The macro environment is stable for higher-end consumers, with some pressures noted in the corporate benefit sector [66] Question: Capital allocation strategy - Management emphasized a focus on opportunistic stock buybacks rather than pursuing high-priced acquisitions [72][74]