Summary
Booking Holdings Inc. (then The Priceline Group) presented its 2013 annual report, highlighting robust growth primarily driven by its international operations, especially Booking.com. The company emphasized its diversified business model, which includes accommodations, rental cars, and meta-search services, with international segments contributing approximately 85% of gross bookings and 94% of operating income. Strategic acquisitions like KAYAK further expanded its market reach and service offerings. Financially, the company demonstrated strong top-line growth, with a significant increase in gross bookings and revenues. A key focus for investors is the company's increasing reliance on and investment in online advertising, which outpaced gross profit growth, impacting return on investment. The company also highlighted ongoing investments in technology and mobile platforms to maintain its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving online travel industry. Potential risks include intense competition, currency fluctuations, and significant ongoing litigation related to travel transaction taxes.
Financial Highlights
53 data points| Revenue | $6.79B |
| Cost of Revenue | $1.08B |
| Gross Profit | $5.72B |
| Operating Expenses | $3.30B |
| Operating Income | $2.41B |
| Interest Expense | $83.29M |
| Net Income | $1.89B |
| EPS (Basic) | $37.17 |
| EPS (Diluted) | $36.11 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 50.92M |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 52.41M |
Key Highlights
- 1International operations, led by Booking.com, were the primary growth engine, accounting for approximately 85% of gross bookings and 94% of operating income in 2013.
- 2The company successfully integrated its acquisition of KAYAK in May 2013, expanding its meta-search capabilities and market presence.
- 3Gross bookings increased by 37.7% year-over-year, driven by strong performance in accommodation room nights and rental car days.
- 4Online advertising expenses grew by 41.2%, outpacing gross profit growth, leading to lower online advertising ROIs.
- 5The company faces ongoing litigation and regulatory scrutiny concerning travel transaction taxes in various U.S. jurisdictions, with an accrual of $55 million established for potential resolution.
- 6International cash balances totaled approximately $4.9 billion, with the company intending to reinvest them in foreign operations rather than repatriating them to the U.S. due to tax implications.
- 7The company's stock symbol was PCLN during this period.