Feb 18 - Booking Holdings reported adjusted earnings for the fourth quarter that exceeded the consensus forecast, driven by sustained international travel demand. The company said quarterly adjusted profit was $48.80 per share, above analysts' average estimate of $48.47 per share, according to LSEG data.
The Norwalk, Connecticut-based online travel agency, which is the parent of Kayak, said gross bookings for the quarter ended December 31 were $43 billion, representing a 16% increase from the same period a year earlier. Total revenue for the quarter was $6.35 billion, topping analysts' expectations of $6.13 billion.
Management signaled continued optimism for demand, citing expectations that international travel will expand further. The company specifically pointed to events such as the FIFA World Cup and a rise in spending among higher-income travelers on premium experiences as tailwinds that should support growth for companies in the travel distribution space.
For the full year 2026, Booking Holdings said it expects adjusted earnings growth to be in the mid-teens range. Looking closer to the near term, the company projected first-quarter gross bookings growth in a range of 14% to 16%.
Analysis
The quarterly results show strength across both bookings and revenue measures, reflecting sustained consumer demand for international travel. Booking's guidance for 2026 and its first-quarter bookings outlook indicate management anticipates further momentum into the year, supported by large event travel and increased premium spending by higher-income customers.
Market response
Shares of the company rose about 2% in extended trading following the release, reflecting investor reception to the beat on profit and the upbeat guidance.
Summary of reported metrics
- Adjusted profit per share (Q4): $48.80 (vs. estimate $48.47)
- Gross bookings (Q4): $43 billion - up 16% year-over-year
- Total revenue (Q4): $6.35 billion (vs. estimate $6.13 billion)
- 2026 adjusted earnings growth guidance: mid-teens range
- Q1 gross bookings growth guidance: 14% to 16%
This report provides a snapshot of Booking Holdings' most recent quarter and its current outlook; the company attributes continued demand to international travel trends and higher spending among wealthier travelers for premium experiences.