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LendingTree TREE reported adjusted earnings per share of 46 cents in first-quarter 2022, better than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 10 cents. The reported figure compares favorably with an income of 18 cents reported in the prior-year quarter.
While elevated expenses were a spoilsport, recovery in the company’s consumer segment business buoyed the results. The company also provided an encouraging 2022 guidance. Probably mirroring this, shares of the company rallied 4.9% following the release of the first-quarter 2022 results.
LendingTree reported a net loss from continuing operations of $10.8 million or 84 cents per share against net income of $19.3 million or $1.37 per share reported in the year-ago quarter.
Revenues Jump, Expenses Rise
Total revenues grew 4% year over year to $283.2 million in the first quarter. The upside primarily stemmed from higher Consumer segments revenues. However, the reported figure missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $285.4 million.
Total costs and expenses were $286.1 million, up 4.2% from the prior-year quarter. The upswing chiefly resulted from a rise in selling and marketing expenses, and general and administrative expenses.
Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) totaled $29.4 million, down 4% year over year. The variable marketing margin was at $94.1 million, up 6% year over year.
As of Mar 31, 2022, cash and cash equivalents were $196.7 million, down from $251.2 million as of Dec 31, 2021. Long-term debt was $565 million, up from the prior-quarter figure of $478.2 million. Total shareholders' equity, as of Mar 31, 2022, was around $340.8 million, down from $448 million, sequentially.
Outlook
For second-quarter 2022, total revenues are estimated to be $283-$293 million. Adjusted EBITDA and the variable marketing margin are anticipated to be $35-$40 million and $100-$106 million, respectively.
For 2022, total revenues are estimated to be $1,150-$1,190 million, indicating year-over-year growth of 5-8%. Adjusted EBITDA is anticipated to be $140-$150 million, suggesting a 4-11% rise from the reported figure in 2021. The variable marketing margin is expected to be $390-$415 million.
Conclusion
LendingTree’s declining dependence on mortgage-related revenue sources and various acquisitions over the past several years is likely to continue aiding financials and help diversify revenues. However, a rise in expenses is a near-term headwind.
LendingTree, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
LendingTree, Inc. price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | LendingTree, Inc. Quote