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Truist trims Match Group shares target, sees upside from AI initiatives but remains cautious

EditorAhmed Abdulazez Abdulkadir
Published 12/12/2024, 11:47 AM
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On Thursday, Truist Securities adjusted its outlook on Match Group (NASDAQ:MTCH), reducing the price target to $34 from the previous $35 while maintaining a Hold rating on the stock.

The decision came after Match Group's inaugural Investor Day, which took place earlier in New York City, where the company's top executives and leaders from its four business units presented. According to InvestingPro analysis, Match Group appears undervalued at its current market capitalization of $7.61 billion, trading at a P/E ratio of 13.

During the event, management highlighted their commitment to reigniting growth through the introduction of new AI-powered products and features, as well as ongoing marketing efforts. The company, which achieved 6.12% revenue growth in the last twelve months, pledged to generate over $1 billion in annual free cash flow (FCF) over the next three years, which is intended to support share buybacks and the initiation of a new dividend. The company's current free cash flow stands at $893.73 million.

Despite these positive developments, Truist Securities remains cautious, choosing to stay on the sidelines until there is clearer visibility into the turnaround at Tinder. According to the management team, the improvements at Tinder are now expected to materialize by 2026, which represents a longer timeframe than previously anticipated.

The analyst from Truist Securities expressed optimism about the company's strategies to drive growth and the financial commitments made. However, the adjustment in the price target reflects a tempered outlook due to the extended timeline for Tinder's recovery.

Match Group's Investor Day provided investors with a comprehensive look at the company's plans and financial goals. The management's focus on innovation and shareholder returns was evident, but the delayed turnaround at one of its key units has led to a more cautious stance from Truist Securities.

The revised price target of $34 indicates a slight shift in expectations for Match Group's near-term performance. InvestingPro subscribers can access additional insights, including 7 more ProTips and a detailed Pro Research Report, which provides comprehensive analysis of Match Group's financial health and growth prospects.

In other recent news, Match Group's financial outlook has seen several adjustments based on its Q3 results and investor day presentations. Stifel revised its stock price target for the online dating company to $36.00 from $39.00, maintaining a Hold rating.

This adjustment comes after Match Group's investor day, where it presented its strategic priorities and medium-term financial outlook. During the event, the company provided an update on its fourth-quarter guidance, which appears to be in line with previous trends. However, an unexpected $15 million foreign exchange (FX) headwind is likely to result in reported figures falling below the anticipated range.

RBC Capital maintained its Outperform rating on Match Group, with a steady price target of $35.00. The firm acknowledged a mixed to negative perspective following Match Group's investor day. The company's financial goals indicate a potential long-term growth rebound coupled with margin expansion. However, Match Group has modestly lowered its fourth-quarter guidance, attributing the adjustment to foreign exchange factors.

Susquehanna maintained a Positive stance on Match Group, with a steady price target of $40.00. The firm's analysis highlighted Match Group's dominant position in the online dating industry and the significant growth potential that lies ahead. Citi adjusted its price target for Match Group to $32 from the previous $33, while keeping a neutral rating on the stock.

The decision came after attending Match Group's Investor Day, where the company presented its product development plans aimed at addressing growth challenges for the fourth quarter of 2024 and into 2025.

JPMorgan issued comments about Match Group's Investor Day, highlighting the stock's status as one of the most crowded shorts in the Internet sector. The analyst expressed skepticism regarding the potential impact of the event, suggesting that it might be aimed at addressing concerns from activists rather than providing substantial insights into the company's future.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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