
United Airlines' share buyback program is a strategic move to boost its financial performance and business strategy. By repurchasing its own shares, the airline aims to increase its earnings per share, making its stock more attractive to investors.
United Airlines has a history of share buybacks, with the company announcing a $5 billion share buyback program in 2020. This move is part of the airline's broader strategy to return value to its shareholders.
The share buyback program has a direct impact on the airline's financial performance, as it reduces the number of outstanding shares, thereby increasing earnings per share.
United Airlines Labor Concerns
United Airlines' $1.5 billion stock buyback plan has drawn condemnation from labor groups, who see it as a return to prioritizing investor interests over workers.
Sara Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants, has spoken out against the plan, calling it a "sickness that hurts workers and consumers alike."
The airline's shares closed at $72.02, up about 12%, following the announcement.
United's board of directors authorized the share repurchase program, which represents about 7% of the carrier's market capitalization.
Labor leaders are concerned that the buyback plan will benefit investors at the expense of workers and consumers.
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United Airlines Financial Performance
United Airlines reported net income of $965 million for the third quarter, down more than 15 per cent from the same period a year earlier.
The airline's operating revenues rose by 2.5 per cent to around $14.8 billion due to an increase in both passenger and cargo revenues.
United's share price rose slightly in after-hours trading.
The airline's adjusted diluted earnings per share was $3.33, above analyst estimates.
United also announced a new $1.5 billion share repurchase programme, its first since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
This buyback programme represents around 7 per cent of United's market capitalisation, based on Monday's closing stock price.
On a similar theme: Bp Has Announced a $3.5 Billion Share Buyback Program.
United Airlines Business Strategy
United Airlines has a clear business strategy in place, and its recent earnings report is a great example of this.
The airline's operating revenues rose by 2.5 per cent to around US$14.8 billion, driven by an increase in both passenger and cargo revenues.
This growth in revenue is a testament to United's ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
The airline's net income of US$965 million, although down more than 15 per cent from the same period a year earlier, still exceeded analyst estimates.
United's adjusted diluted earnings per share of US$3.33 is a significant achievement, and it's clear that the airline is prioritizing its bottom line.
The airline's share price rose slightly in after-hours trading, indicating investor confidence in the company's direction.
United's new US$1.5 billion share repurchase programme is also a key aspect of its business strategy, representing around 7 per cent of its market capitalisation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it good to buy shares during buyback?
Buying shares during a buyback can potentially boost their value, but it's essential to consider whether the company's profits are being used wisely
Sources
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/tedreed/2024/10/16/united-airlines-does-stock-buyback-labor-slams-investor-greedheads/
- https://simpleflying.com/flight-attendants-object-united-airlines-stock-buyback-plans/
- https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/united-airlines-announces-us1-5-billion-share-buyback-earnings-top-estimates
- https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/UNITED-AIRLINES-HOLDINGS--45899617/news/United-Airlines-share-buyback-program-48087506/
- https://www.morningstar.com/news/marketwatch/20241015705/united-airlines-sheds-unprofitable-capacity-in-better-than-expected-quarter
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