Tag: Travel

Tripadvisor and Liberty TripAdvisor Announce Merger to Simplify Corporate Structure

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Tripadvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRIP) and Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc. (OTCMKTS: LTRPA, LTRPB) have announced a definitive agreement to merge. The merger will see Tripadvisor acquiring Liberty TripAdvisor, resulting in a simplified capital structure for the global travel platform. The transaction, valued at approximately $435 million, includes the conversion of Liberty TripAdvisor’s Series A and Series B Common Stock into cash, alongside the redemption of its 8% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock and the repayment of its 0.50% Exchangeable Senior Debentures. Liberty TripAdvisor’s shareholders will receive approximately $20 million in cash for their common stock and $42.5 million in cash, along with 3,037,959 shares of Tripadvisor common stock for their preferred stock.

This merger enables Tripadvisor to retire about 27 million shares of its common stock held by Liberty TripAdvisor, net of shares pledged as collateral. The effective repurchase price of these shares stands at $16.21, representing a 16% premium based on the 10-day volume-weighted average price as of December 17, 2024. The agreement marks a pivotal move to create strategic flexibility and unlock value for stakeholders.

Matt Goldberg, President and CEO of Tripadvisor, highlighted the significance of the transaction as a step toward simplifying Tripadvisor’s corporate structure. He emphasized the opportunity to retire a significant portion of shares while maintaining a healthy balance sheet. According to Goldberg, this transaction will empower Tripadvisor to pursue its strategic vision and expand its role in the travel and experiences sector. The deal also represents an important milestone for Liberty TripAdvisor, allowing the entity to address challenges stemming from its complex capital structure and financial obligations, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Greg Maffei, Chairman and CEO of Liberty TripAdvisor, praised the agreement, emphasizing its alignment with the company’s goals to maximize stakeholder value and enhance Tripadvisor’s ability to adapt and grow. By removing the dual-class share structure, Tripadvisor will gain greater strategic and operational agility, enabling it to better compete and innovate within the travel industry.

The merger was unanimously approved by the boards of both companies following a thorough evaluation by Tripadvisor’s Special Committee of independent directors. This committee, supported by financial and legal advisors, played a critical role in securing terms favorable to all parties involved. Liberty TripAdvisor’s stakeholders, including those holding Exchangeable Debentures, are expected to benefit from the streamlined structure and improved financial position post-merger.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by a majority of Liberty TripAdvisor’s voting shareholders. The companies anticipate finalizing the merger by the second quarter of 2025. If the deal encounters delays beyond March 27, 2025, Tripadvisor has agreed to provide a secured loan to Liberty TripAdvisor to address any financial obligations related to its Exchangeable Debentures. This loan will be canceled upon the successful closing of the transaction or will become due shortly thereafter if the merger is not completed.

Tripadvisor operates as a family of brands connecting people with travel experiences worldwide. Its portfolio includes Viator and TheFork, along with Tripadvisor’s core platform, which provides travel guidance and booking services for accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The merger with Liberty TripAdvisor is expected to enhance Tripadvisor’s strategic flexibility and solidify its position as a leading player in the travel industry, unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Airline Stocks Soar as Demand for Premium Travel Reaches New Heights

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Increased demand for premium seating options boosts airline revenues.
– Strategic expansions and operational efficiency help airlines navigate challenges.
– Companies like Travelzoo capitalize on rising consumer interest in travel.

The airline industry is enjoying a remarkable resurgence, driven by growing consumer demand for premium travel experiences. Major US carriers are experiencing stock surges fueled by increased revenue from upgraded seating options, expanded routes, and a focus on catering to high-value customers.

Delta Air Lines (DAL) and United Airlines (UAL) have led the charge, achieving record stock highs and posting year-to-date gains of 60% and 134%, respectively—well above the S&P 500’s (GSPC) performance. Even low-cost carriers like Frontier Airlines (ULCC) have posted positive returns despite challenges within the budget travel market.

Premium Travel Fuels Growth

The growing appetite for premium travel options such as extra legroom, refundable tickets, and early boarding has proven to be a major revenue driver. Delta is forecasting that premium ticket sales will outpace main cabin revenue by 2027, supported by an ongoing expansion of high-tier seating options. The airline plans to dedicate 85% of its new seat capacity in 2025 to premium configurations.

“Demand for premium travel is at an all-time high,” Delta CEO Ed Bastian remarked. “The millennial demographic is driving much of this growth, with travelers willing to pay more for added convenience and comfort.”

American Airlines (AAL) has echoed this trend, reporting an 8% year-over-year increase in premium ticket revenue during its third quarter. The airline plans to expand its premium seating by 20% through 2026, as travelers increasingly seek elevated experiences and more flexibility in their booking options.

This shift in consumer behavior highlights a broader industry trend: passengers are prioritizing convenience, reliability, and personalization over cost—a shift that has particularly benefited legacy carriers.

Challenges Met with Strategic Resilience

Despite headwinds such as rising pilot wages, higher maintenance costs, and aircraft production delays, the industry has demonstrated resilience. Legacy carriers like United Airlines have managed to expand market share through strategic domestic route growth and international capacity optimization.

United Airlines, for instance, has capitalized on reduced competition from low-cost carriers like Spirit Airlines, which recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The airline’s premium business class product, Polaris, has been a key differentiator in attracting high-net-worth travelers.

Analysts are optimistic about the sector’s future. TD Cowen’s Tom Fitzgerald recently named United Airlines a “Best Idea” for 2025, raising the stock’s price target from $100 to $125. Fitzgerald cited resilient macroeconomic demand, reduced domestic capacity, and falling fuel costs as reasons for his bullish outlook.

Travel Industry Momentum

The resurgence in airline stocks is mirrored across the broader travel sector. Companies like Travelzoo (NASDAQ: TZOO), a leader in digital travel deals, are also benefiting from heightened consumer interest. Travelzoo’s partnerships and exclusive offers have positioned it as a key player in the sector’s growth. For a deeper dive into Travelzoo’s performance, read the latest research report here.

Release – Travelzoo Announces Share Repurchase Program

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on TZOO

Oct 23, 2024, 08:35 ET

NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), the club for travel enthusiasts, today announced that its board of directors has authorized a new program to repurchase up to 1,000,000 shares of the Company’s outstanding common stock.

Purchases may be made, from time to time, in the open market and will be funded from available cash. The number of shares to be purchased and the timing of purchases will be based on the level of Travelzoo’s cash balances, general business and market conditions, and other factors, including alternative investment opportunities.

About Travelzoo
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. Our 30 million members receive exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give Travelzoo members access to irresistible deals.

Investor Relations: 
ir@travelzoo.com   

SOURCE Travelzoo

Gogo to Acquire Satcom Direct, Creating Global Leader in In-Flight Connectivity

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Gogo will acquire Satcom Direct for $375 million in cash and 5 million shares of Gogo stock, expanding its in-flight connectivity solutions.
– The combined company will offer multi-band, multi-orbit satellite solutions for business aviation and military/government markets.
– The deal is expected to close by the end of 2024, providing cost synergies and significant revenue growth opportunities.

In a significant move to bolster its position in the global in-flight connectivity market, Gogo Inc. (NASDAQ: GOGO) has announced the acquisition of Satcom Direct, a leading provider of geostationary satellite in-flight services for business aviation (BA) and military/government mobility markets. The transaction, valued at $375 million in cash and five million shares of Gogo stock, positions Gogo as the only multi-orbit, multi-band global connectivity provider catering to all segments of the BA market and government mobility sector.

The acquisition, which includes potential earn-out payments of up to $225 million based on future performance, will create significant synergies and accelerate Gogo’s long-term growth. Satcom Direct is expected to generate $485 million in revenue for 2024 with EBITDA margins of approximately 17%. With this acquisition, Gogo aims to expand its total addressable market to the 14,000 business aircraft located outside of North America.

Oakleigh Thorne, Chairman and CEO of Gogo, commented, “This transaction accelerates our growth strategies, expanding our global reach while enabling us to offer integrated satellite solutions. By combining Satcom Direct’s existing capabilities with Gogo’s Galileo LEO (Low Earth Orbit) solution, we can now offer unmatched performance to business aviation and military customers.”

Satcom Direct’s portfolio includes advanced geostationary satellite (GEO) and L-band offerings, which will be integrated into Gogo’s Galileo LEO satellite solutions. This multi-orbit approach will cater to both North American and international customers, providing premium connectivity options for all segments of the business aviation market. The deal also strengthens Gogo’s entry into the military and government mobility vertical, adding new revenue streams and diversifying the company’s customer base.

Chris Moore, President of Satcom Direct, expressed excitement about the acquisition, stating, “We are thrilled to be joining forces with Gogo, which shares our commitment to customer service and innovation. Together, we will unlock opportunities for new technologies, delivering even greater value to our clients worldwide.”

The acquisition not only boosts Gogo’s market presence but also delivers immediate financial benefits. The deal is expected to be accretive to earnings and free cash flow per share from the start, with projected annual run-rate cost synergies of $25-30 million within two years post-closing. Pro forma 2024 revenue for the combined company is expected to reach $890 million, with adjusted EBITDA margins of around 24%.

Looking ahead, Gogo anticipates long-term annual revenue growth of approximately 10%, driven by the combined strengths of its existing customer base and Satcom Direct’s extensive sales and service network. Additionally, the deal opens opportunities for technology upgrades and faster installations, thanks to the combined installed base of over 12,000 aircraft globally.

The transaction, unanimously approved by Gogo’s Board of Directors, is set to close by the end of 2024, pending regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.

Release – Travelzoo Reports Second Quarter 2024 Results

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on TZOO

NEW YORK, July 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO):

  • Revenue of $21.1 million, consistent year-over-year
  • Consolidated operating profit of $4.0 million
  • Non-GAAP consolidated operating profit of $4.8 million
  • Cash flow from operations of $3.1 million
  • Earnings per share (EPS) of $0.23

Travelzoo, the club for travel enthusiasts, today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024. Consolidated revenue was $21.1 million, consistent year-over-year. In constant currencies, revenue was $21.2 million, up from $21.1 million year-over-year. Travelzoo’s reported revenue consists of advertising revenues and commissions, derived from and generated in connection with purchases made by Travelzoo members, and membership fees.

Net income attributable to Travelzoo was $2.9 million for Q2 2024, or $0.23 per share, compared with $0.17 in the prior-year period. Net income attributable to Travelzoo from continuing operations was $2.9 million for Q2 2024, or $0.23 per share, compared with $0.17 in the prior-year period.

Non-GAAP operating profit was $4.8 million. Non-GAAP operating profit excludes amortization of intangibles ($88,000), stock option expenses ($0.7 million) and severance-related expenses ($30,000). Please refer to “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and the tabular reconciliation below.

“We will continue to leverage Travelzoo’s global reach, trusted brand, and strong relationships with top travel suppliers to negotiate more exclusive offers for members,” said Holger Bartel, Travelzoo’s Global CEO. “With more than 30 million members, 8 million mobile app users, and 4 million social media followers, Travelzoo is loved by travel enthusiasts who are affluent, active, and open to new experiences.”

Cash Position
As of June 30, 2024, consolidated cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash were $13.2 million. Net cash provided by operations was $3.1 million.

Travelzoo North America
North America business segment revenue remained consistent year-over-year at $14.1 million. Operating profit for Q2 2024 was $3.7 million, or 26% of revenue, compared to operating profit of $3.8 million in the prior-year period.

Travelzoo Europe
Europe business segment revenue increased 1% year-over-year to $6.0 million. In constant currencies, Europe business segment revenue increased 1% year-over-year. Operating profit for Q2 2024 was $512,000, or 9% of revenue, compared to operating loss of $239,000 in the prior-year period.

Jack’s Flight Club 
Jack’s Flight Club is a membership subscription service in which Travelzoo has a 60% ownership interest. Revenue from unaffiliated customers increased 9% year-over-year to $1.1 million. The number of premium subscribers increased 19% year-over-year. Jack’s Flight Club’s revenue from subscriptions is recognized ratably over the subscription period (quarterly, semi-annually, annually). Non-GAAP operating profit for Q2 2024 was $25,000. Non-GAAP operating profit excludes amortization of intangibles ($59,000) related to the acquisition of Travelzoo’s ownership interest in Jack’s Flight Club in 2020.

New Initiatives
New Initiatives business segment revenue, which includes Licensing and Travelzoo META, was $23,000. Operating loss for Q2 2024 was $184,000.

In June 2020, Travelzoo entered into a royalty-bearing licensing agreement with a local licensee in Japan for the exclusive use of Travelzoo’s brand, business model, and members in Japan. In August of 2020, Travelzoo entered into a royalty-bearing licensing agreement with a local licensee in Australia for the exclusive use of Travelzoo’s brand, business models, and members in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. Under these arrangements, Travelzoo’s existing members in Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and Singapore will continue to be owned by Travelzoo as the licensor. Travelzoo recorded $7,000 in licensing revenue from the licensee in Japan in Q2 2024. Travelzoo recorded $11,000 in licensing revenue from the licensee in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore in Q2 2024. Licensing revenue is expected to increase going forward.

Members and Subscribers 
As of June 30, 2024, we had 30.8 million members worldwide, consistent with June 30, 2023. In North America, Travelzoo had 16.1 million unduplicated members as of June 30, 2024, down from 16.2 million as of June 30, 2023. In Europe, Travelzoo had 9.2 million unduplicated members as of June 30, 2024, consistent with June 30, 2023. Jack’s Flight Club had 2.2 million subscribers, including premium subscribers, as of June 30, 2024, consistent with June 30, 2023.

Discontinued Operations
In March 2020, Travelzoo decided to exit its Asia Pacific business and operate it as a licensing business going forward. Consequently, the Asia Pacific business has been classified as discontinued operations.

Income Taxes
A provision of $1.3 million for income taxes was recorded for Q2 2024, compared to an income tax expense of $1.1 million in the prior-year period. Travelzoo intends to utilize available net operating losses (NOLs) to largely offset its actual tax liability for Q2 2024.

Share Repurchase Program
During Q2 2024, the Company repurchased 800,000 of its outstanding common stock.

Looking Ahead 
For Q3 2024, we expect growth in revenue year-over-year, albeit at a smaller pace than in 2023. However, there could be unexpected fluctuations. We also expect for Q3 2024 higher profitability year-over-year. For 2025, we expect substantial growth in revenue as a result of additional revenue from membership fees.

In December 2023, we announced the introduction of a membership fee for Travelzoo beginning January 1, 2024. We recognize membership fee revenue ratably over the subscription period. Legacy Travelzoo members as of December 31, 2023, which represent more than 95% of members, are exempt from the fee during 2024. Therefore, we do not anticipate membership fee revenue from these members before 2025.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Management calculates non-GAAP operating income when evaluating the financial performance of the business. Travelzoo’s calculation of non-GAAP operating income, also called “non-GAAP operating profit” in this press release and today’s earnings conference call, excludes the following items: amortization of intangibles, stock option expenses and severance-related expenses. This press release includes a table which reconciles GAAP operating income to the calculation of non-GAAP operating income. Non-GAAP operating income is not required by, or presented in accordance with, generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). This information should be considered as supplemental in nature and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. In addition, these non-GAAP financial measures may not be the same as similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

Conference Call
Travelzoo will host a conference call to discuss second quarter 2024 results today at 11:00 a.m. ET. Please visit http://ir.travelzoo.com/events-presentations to

  • download the management presentation (PDF format) to be discussed in the conference call
  • access the webcast

About Travelzoo
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. Our 30 million members receive exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give Travelzoo members access to irresistible deals.

Certain statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about our plans, objectives, expectations, prospects and intentions, markets in which we participate and other statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts. When used in this press release, the words “expect”, “predict”, “project”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek” and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including changes in our plans, objectives, expectations, prospects and intentions and other factors discussed in our filings with the SEC. We cannot guarantee any future levels of activity, performance or achievements. Travelzoo undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.

View Full Release Here

Media Contact:
Investor Relations:
ir@travelzoo.com

SOURCE Travelzoo

Release – Travelzoo Q2 2024 Earnings Conference Call on July 25 at 11:00 AM ET

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

News Research and Market Data on TZOO

Jul 18, 2024, 09:03 ET

NEW YORK, July 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO):

WHAT:Travelzoo, the club for travel enthusiasts, will host a conference call to discuss the Company’s financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024. Travelzoo will issue a press release reporting its results before the market opens on July 25, 2024.
WHEN:July 25, 2024 at 11:00 AM ET
HOW:A live webcast of Travelzoo’s Q2 2024 earnings conference call can be accessed at http://ir.travelzoo.com/events-presentations. The webcast will be archived within 2 hours of the end of the call and will be available through the same link.
CONTACT:Travelzoo Investor Relations
ir@travelzoo.com

About Travelzoo
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. Our 30 million members receive exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give us access to irresistible deals.

SOURCE Travelzoo

Cruise Stocks Surge: A Positive Signal for the Travel Sector’s Recovery

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Today, the cruise ship industry is seeing remarkable activity in its stocks, with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line experiencing notable surges. This spike follows Norwegian Cruise Line’s announcement of enhanced financial guidance for 2024 and ambitious targets for 2026. The company’s new “Charting The Course” strategy, which includes significant yield growth expectations and improved EBITDA forecasts, has bolstered investor confidence, driving up not only Norwegian’s shares but also those of Carnival and Royal Caribbean.

The surge in these stocks signals a robust recovery for the cruise industry, which was one of the hardest-hit sectors during the COVID-19 pandemic. The current upswing is largely attributed to strong demand and record bookings reported by these companies, reflecting renewed consumer interest in cruise vacations. Additionally, strategic initiatives focusing on long-term financial health and sustainability are positioning these companies for continued growth and stability.

This positive momentum in the cruise sector has broader implications for the travel industry. Companies like Travelzoo, which specializes in travel deals, stand to benefit from the increased promotional activities and consumer interest in cruises. As cruise companies offer more deals to attract customers, platforms like Travelzoo can capitalize by featuring a wider range of cruise packages, driving higher engagement and potentially boosting revenues.

Investors observing these trends should note the underlying factors contributing to the surge. The increased bookings and optimistic financial forecasts indicate a strong recovery trajectory for the cruise industry. Moreover, strategic partnerships and marketing initiatives by cruise lines can enhance consumer reach and operational efficiency, creating a favorable environment for growth.

While the surge in cruise ship stocks is promising, it’s crucial for investors to consider the broader context and potential risks. The recovery is partly dependent on continued consumer confidence and the ability of these companies to manage operational challenges post-pandemic. Additionally, the sustainability initiatives and financial health strategies of these companies will play a significant role in their long-term performance.

In conclusion, the recent activity in cruise ship stocks highlights a positive outlook for the travel sector. Norwegian Cruise Line’s enhanced financial guidance and strategic targets have instilled confidence in the market, benefiting not only the company but also its competitors, Carnival and Royal Caribbean. For investors, understanding the dynamics driving this surge and the potential implications for related companies like Travelzoo can provide valuable insights into the evolving travel industry landscape. As always, it is essential to approach investment decisions with a comprehensive understanding of market trends and potential risks.

Viking Cruises Makes a Splash with $1.5 Billion IPO

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Viking Cruises, the leading provider of destination-focused river and ocean cruises, hit the open waters of the public markets today in a blockbuster $1.5 billion initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange. The Los Angeles-based company and its shareholders offered a total of 64,041,668 ordinary shares at $24 apiece, with the potential for an additional $230 million in proceeds if underwriters exercise their over-allotment option in full.

The long-awaited IPO marks a major milestone for Viking, which was founded in 1997 by Norwegian entrepreneurs Torstein Hagen and his daughter Karine. From its humble beginnings operating modest river cruises along the Russian waterways, the company has grown into a heavyweight of the cruise industry known for its culturally immersive voyages that appeal to intellectually curious travelers.

“This is an incredibly exciting day for Viking as we embark on our next chapter as a public company,” said Torstein Hagen, Viking’s Chairman. “The proceeds from this offering will enable us to further our commitment to creating exceptional destination-focused experiences for our guests.”

While Viking raised $264 million from its portion of the IPO shares, the lion’s share came from long-time investors like private equity firms TPG, Genting Group, and AAMCF who cashed out $1.27 billion worth of their stakes. Viking did not receive any proceeds from shares sold by these selling shareholders.

The offering was hot with investors, getting upsized by 8 million shares due to high demand. Viking’s $6.0 billion market cap and profitable business model operating a fleet of 63 river vessels and 8 ocean ships made it an attractive catch amidst the choppy conditions facing many travel companies.

Now trading under the catchy “VIK” ticker, the IPO was led by heavyweight investment banks BofA Securities and J.P. Morgan acting as lead underwriters. They were joined by a syndicate including UBS, Wells Fargo, HSBC, Morgan Stanley and seven other co-managers.

Viking has ambitious plans for the growth capital. The company intends to use the $264 million net proceeds to fund additional cruise ships and travel experiences, invest in sales and marketing, and accelerate expansion into new markets. Up next are the launches of Viking’s highly-anticipated expedition cruises to the Arctic and Antarctic scheduled for 2025.

The IPO caps off a remarkable rise for the company from its modest beginnings over 25 years ago. Thanks to its unique vision of combining a curated curriculum of educational content with Scandinavian design and cuisine, Viking has cultivated a loyal community whom they fondly refer to as “The Thinking Person.”

With the winds of the public markets now at its back, Viking’s next voyage looks bound for its status as the world’s largest and leading small-ship cruise line. As Torstein Hagen says, “We will remain driven by our mandate of creating culturally enriching experiences that allow our guests to explore the world in comfort.”

Release – Travelzoo Announces Share Repurchase Program

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on TZOO

Apr 30, 2024, 07:30 ET

NEW YORK, April 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), the club for travel enthusiasts, today announced that its board of directors has authorized the repurchase of up to 1,000,000 shares of the Company’s outstanding common stock.

Purchases may be made, from time to time, in the open market and will be funded from available cash. The number of shares to be purchased and the timing of purchases will be based on the level of Travelzoo’s cash balances, general business and market conditions, and other factors, including alternative investment opportunities.

About Travelzoo
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. Our 30 million members receive exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give Travelzoo members access to irresistible deals.

Investor Relations:
ir@travelzoo.com 

SOURCE Travelzoo

JetBlue’s Daring $3.8 Billion Quest to Buy Spirit Crashes Into Regulatory Turbulence

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

JetBlue Airways’ audacious attempt to significantly reshape the U.S. airline industry by acquiring the ultra-low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines has crashed into an insurmountable regulatory barrier. After a nearly two-year battle, the two carriers terminated their $3.8 billion merger agreement in the face of steadfast federal antitrust opposition.

The deal’s demise represents a stinging setback for JetBlue, which had contested the U.S. Justice Department in federal court over whether buying Spirit would reduce competition and raise fares. A federal judge ultimately blocked the transaction, siding with the Biden administration’s view that it would “harm cost-conscious travelers who rely on Spirit’s low fares.”

While JetBlue initially appealed the ruling as required by the merger terms, both airlines acknowledged the increasingly slim odds of reviving the deal. With the Justice Department firmly opposed and the regulatory obstacles too high, new JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty conceded “the probability of getting the green light anytime soon is extremely low.”

Geraghty, tasked with righting JetBlue’s operational struggles, defended the rationale as an bold plan to “shake up the industry status quo.” However, the regulatory headwinds proved too intense to complete what would have been the airline sector’s most transformative merger since 2013.

The termination marks an abrupt reversal from just months ago when JetBlue convinced Spirit shareholders to reject a lower buyout bid from Frontier Airlines. Spirit was positioned to receive a $2.9 billion cash payout before the deal disintegrated in court.

Instead, Spirit will get a relatively modest $69 million breakup fee from the termination, though its shareholders had already pocketed $425 million in prepayments from JetBlue.

Walking away leaves each airline to fend for itself in a market dominated by the “Big Four” carriers controlling over 80% of seat capacity. The stakes are elevated for the oft-struggling Spirit, grappling with operational issues like an engine defect that will ground dozens of jets for inspections.

With JetBlue’s acquisition off the table, Spirit must fortify its shaky balance sheet and consistently turn a profit as a standalone ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC). CEO Ted Christie affirmed initiatives underway to “bolster profitability and elevate the guest experience.” Spirit expects better-than-expected Q1 revenue amid robust demand, and is refinancing debt.

However, funding constraints and cost pressures cloud Spirit’s outlook. Aviation experts caution the ULCC model faces an uphill climb in an inflationary environment squeezing margins. Without JetBlue’s resources, Spirit’s growth ambitions may stall as rivals build scale.

For JetBlue, the road is also turbulent as it contends with operations struggles, financial headwinds and pressure from activists. The Spirit deal was viewed as a potential catalyst accelerant for overhauling its business model. Without that lever, JetBlue may be forced to double down on existing lines or revisit other acquisition targets.

The regulatory blockade has raised the bar for any future industry consolidation. The Biden administration signaled it will vehemently contest any merger resembling a reduction of competition. Airlines contemplating deals should anticipate similar anti-trust scrutiny.

In the near-term, blocking the JetBlue-Spirit tie-up preserves ultra-low fare offerings in markets they serve. But whether those discounted seats endure remains uncertain as unconventional airlines face economic pressures.

What was envisioned as a game-changing shift in industry power dynamics has stalled indefinitely. The two airlines must now chart separate paths forward – for better or for worse.

Spirit Airlines Stock Slides After Regulators Block JetBlue Merger

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Shares of low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines plunged a staggering 47% on Tuesday after a federal judge ruled to block the proposed $3.8 billion acquisition by JetBlue Airways. The decision reignited antitrust concerns surrounding consolidation in the airline industry and delivered a major setback to the merger partners.

Judge Leo Sorokin of the U.S. District Court in Massachusetts sided with the Justice Department, which sued earlier this year to halt the deal between the two discount airlines. Regulators argued the merger would lead to higher fares, fewer choices, and reduced competition – particularly impacting budget-conscious leisure travelers.

In his ruling, Sorokin agreed the combination of JetBlue and Spirit would substantially reduce competition in major metropolitan areas and lead to dominant market power on hundreds of routes. Evidence also suggested the merger was likely to raise base fares above pre-merger levels, contradicting the airlines’ claims that the deal would actually lower costs for consumers.

The Justice Department applauded the decision, stating it protected the interests of millions of air travelers against the threat of increased prices and reduced options. The Biden administration has taken a tougher stance on antitrust issues across industries like tech and healthcare. Blocking this airline deal marked the first time in over 20 years regulators successfully halted a major U.S. carrier merger.

JetBlue and Spirit responded with disappointment, saying they disagree with the judge’s rationale and are evaluating their legal options. Previously, the carriers contended combining forces would fuel competition with larger legacy airlines and drive down airfares. But regulators argued JetBlue’s Northeast Alliance with American Airlines already gave the company substantial market power.

For Spirit, the failed acquisition is a crushing blow after months in limbo. The ultra-low cost airline initially agreed to merge with fellow discounter Frontier Airlines before JetBlue stepped in with a higher bid. Now, Spirit finds itself alone again after the about-face regulators delivered.

The collapsed deal and renewed antitrust scrutiny sent Spirit’s stock price into a nosedive. Shares cratered from Friday’s close of $19.66 to around $10.40 on Tuesday after the ruling. The 47% single-day wipeout vaporized over $1.4 billion in market value. Investors are surely questioning what’s next for the budget carrier without an imminent buyer or partner.

The blocked merger also casts uncertainty over ongoing consolidation in the travel and tourism sector. Many investors had bet on further airline combinations to drive efficiency and shareholder returns. With regulators now throwing up roadblocks, the appetite for large-scale airline deals could diminish. That may leave some carriers struggling to gain scale and keep pace with leading players like Delta and American.

Broader travel stocks also felt the tremor of the scuttled Spirit-JetBlue tie-up. Shares of Hawaiian Holdings, involved in a proposed merger with Alaska Air, fell nearly 2% Tuesday afternoon amid the uncertain regulatory environment. Cruise operators like Norwegian and Royal Caribbean slid as much as 5%, potentially signaling dampened outlooks for leisure sector combinations.

Potentially compounding Spirit’s challenges, competitor Frontier Airlines could come back to the table with a renewed merger proposal now that JetBlue is sidelined. Spirit already expended time and resources negotiating with Frontier last year. More uncertainty around consolidation could further destabilize the airline at a precarious moment.

Looking ahead, Spirit and JetBlue still have avenues to continue the legal fight. They could appeal the decision or take their arguments directly to regulators for another look. But after the Justice Department’s strong stance earlier in the case, the odds of overturning the ruling remain long.

For now, the blocked acquisition marks a setback in the wave of consolidation that has swept the U.S. airline industry over the past two decades. Major carriers will be wary of attempting large mergers and risking similar antitrust opposition. While the Biden administration succeeded in halting this particular deal, ongoing fragmentation may not solve the lack of competition in air travel markets across America.

Take a look at Travelzoo (TZOO), an exclusive travel membership that provides travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences.

Release – Travelzoo Introduces Membership Fee for New Members Beginning January 1, 2024

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on TZOO

14 Dec, 2023, 14:55 ETNEW YORK and LONDON and MUNICH, Dec. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo (NASDAQ: TZOO), a global Internet media company, today announced that the Travelzoo® membership will not be a free service any longer. Beginning January 1, 2024, the annual membership fee will be $40 (fees in other currencies will be approximately the same).

For the existing 30 million Travelzoo members, who have been loyal to Travelzoo, the fee for 2024 will be waived.

IMPORTANT: New members who still join on or before December 31, 2023, will also have the 2024 fee waived.

“For 25 years, Travelzoo’s global team of experts has worked tirelessly to research, negotiate and inform members about the best travel deals around. We have inspired members to travel to places they never imagined they could. And members have saved an estimated $7.5 billion,” said Christina Sindoni Ciocca, Chair of Travelzoo’s Board of Directors.

Holger Bartel, Global CEO and Co-Founder said: “We are passionate about what we do. Travelzoo is the club for travel enthusiasts. With the new membership fee, we will be able to negotiate even better, more exclusive offers than would be possible operating as a free service. This is because many top travel suppliers, including luxury hotels, as well as entertainment companies, only want to provide their best offers to a selective group.”

Christina Sindoni Ciocca added: “We are confident that new members who join from January 1 on will find the Travelzoo membership to be a rewarding investment. Travelzoo is the must-have membership for those who love to travel as much as we do, the true travel enthusiasts.”

About Travelzoo

Travelzoo® provides its 30 million members with exclusive offers and one-of-a-kind experiences personally reviewed by our deal experts around the globe. We have our finger on the pulse of outstanding travel, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. We work in partnership with more than 5,000 top travel suppliers—our long-standing relationships give Travelzoo members access to irresistible deals.

NOTICE TO INVESTORS: THE COMPANY DOES NOT MAKE ANY STATEMENTS OR PROJECTIONS FOR FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE. PLEASE SEE DISCLAIMER OF FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS BELOW.

Certain statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about our plans, objectives, expectations, prospects and intentions, markets in which we participate and other statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts. When used in this press release, the words “expect”, “predict”, “project”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “seek” and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including changes in our plans, objectives, expectations, prospects and intentions and other factors discussed in our filings with the SEC. We cannot guarantee any future levels of activity, performance or achievements. Travelzoo undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.

Travelzoo is a registered trademarks of Travelzoo.

Media contacts:

Paige Cram – Los Angeles
+1 609 668 0645
pcram@travelzoo.com 

Cat Jordan – London
+44 77 7678 1525
cjordan@travelzoo.com 

Christian Smart – Munich
+49 174 338 6163
csmart@travelzoo.com 

SOURCE Travelzoo

MGM Hack Highlights Casino Cyber Risks

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Casino and hotel operator MGM Resorts tumbled last week after revealing it was hit by a data breach impacting over 10 million former guests. The hack showcases the cyber risks facing hospitality firms and dragged down related stocks as investors weighed the potential fallout.

MGM shares dropped over 4% following its disclosure of the breach as investors reacted to the cyberattack. The stock slide reflected concerns over potential costs from lawsuits, technical remedies, and reputational damage.

The attack also stoked fears of similar incidents across the broader hospitality sector. Airline, cruise, and casino stocks all declined as analysts noted cyber threats facing the industry. Leisure companies handle vast customer data and suffer from downtime, making them prime hacker targets.

Take a look at Travelzoo, a company providing members with travel, entertainment and lifestyle experiences.

Broader equity markets proved resilient to the MGM incident. But cybersecurity stocks rallied on expectations companies may now invest more in protecting data and systems going forward. Top gainers included cyber firms Palo Alto Networks and CrowdStrike.

The MGM breach follows several recent high-profile hacks of casinos and gaming firms. The frequency of attacks has put the industry on notice. New Nevada regulations now require prompt breach disclosures from casinos. Once inside a network, hackers can often access customer financial data. Small casinos have paid millions in ransoms to regain control of systems.

While the MGM breach didn’t significantly sway major indexes, it highlights the dangers posed by cyber criminals. A larger incident paralyzing critical infrastructure could certainly roil markets. This incident is an important reminder of the growing cyber threats facing corporations and customers alike in today’s digitally connected world.