Citi maintains $58 target on IAC shares, ends catalyst watch

Published 01/04/2025, 10:32
Citi maintains $58 target on IAC shares, ends catalyst watch

On Tuesday, Citi reaffirmed their Buy rating on IAC/InterActiveCorp (NASDAQ:IAC) shares with a steady price target of $58.00. The decision to maintain the rating follows the observation of the stock’s robust performance, which saw an 11% rise since February 3, 2025, contrasting with a 6% decline in the S&P 500 over the same period.

The analyst from Citi noted the completion of IAC’s distribution of its Angi shares to its shareholders on March 31, 2025, as a significant event, bringing the implied market value of IAC’s remaining assets closer to their fair value estimate. This transaction marked the end of the positive catalyst watch that was initiated 35 days prior to its standard 90-day duration due to the stock’s strong outperformance. InvestingPro analysis shows IAC maintains a healthy liquidity position with a current ratio of 2.8, while operating with a moderate debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43.

Despite the conclusion of the catalyst watch, Citi’s stance on IAC remains optimistic. The firm recognizes the remaining potential for a 26% upside to reach the $58 target price. The analyst emphasized the attractiveness of the discount to IAC’s stub value, which is the value of IAC’s core operations excluding its interests in other companies, and the appeal of Dotdash Meredith (NYSE:MDP) as an undervalued asset within IAC’s portfolio.

In summary, while the specific catalyst watch has been terminated, Citi continues to endorse IAC shares as a Buy. The firm believes that there is still value to be found in IAC’s operations and assets, particularly in Dotdash Meredith, which they consider to be an overlooked component of IAC’s business.

In other recent news, IAC Inc. has completed the spin-off of Angi Inc., distributing Angi Class A common stock to its shareholders as a special dividend. This strategic move is intended to offer both companies enhanced operational flexibility and a more focused strategic direction. Additionally, Angi Inc. is set to replace The ODP Corp. in the S&P SmallCap 600 index, following IAC’s spin-off of its ownership interest in Angi. IAC remains in the S&P SmallCap 600 post spin-off. JPMorgan has upgraded IAC to an Overweight rating with a $60 price target, citing the spin-off’s potential to unlock value in IAC’s portfolio.

Furthermore, IAC has announced a temporary trading suspension for its employee benefit plans, related to the Angi spin-off, to comply with regulatory requirements. The company has also expanded its share repurchase program, authorizing the buyback of an additional 10 million shares, reflecting its commitment to optimizing shareholder value. These developments are part of IAC’s broader strategy to streamline operations and enhance its financial performance.

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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