H World Group Reports Mixed Financial Results and Future Plans

Overview of H World Group's Financial Performance

H World Group Limited (NASDAQ: HTHT) is experiencing challenges as it recently reported its third-quarter financial results, which fell short of analyst expectations.

Third-Quarter Earnings Update

In this quarter, H World Group reported adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of 61 cents. This figure did not meet the analyst consensus, which anticipated an EPS of 69 cents. The company generated quarterly revenues of $918 million, below the market expectation of $933.86 million.

Yearly Revenue Comparison

Despite missing these targets, the company did report a modest year-over-year revenue growth of 2.4%. This growth aligned within their earlier guidance of a 2% to 5% increase for the third quarter of 2024.

Segment Performance Insights

Breaking down the revenue sources, the Legacy-Huazhu segment experienced a 1% rise year-over-year, consistent with guidance expectations, while the Legacy-DH segment saw a more robust 8.9% year-over-year increase in revenue.

Leased Hotels Revenue Decline

Revenue from leased and owned hotels amounted to $526 million, indicating a 4.8% decline compared to the previous year. However, this was slightly offset by a 0.2% increase from the previous quarter. In contrast, the revenue from managed and franchised hotels rose significantly to $371 million, showcasing a 14.7% year-over-year growth.

Operational Statistics

By the end of September, H World Group had 10,845 hotels and over one million hotel rooms operating. Hotel turnover increased by 10.7% in the third quarter, while adjusted EBITDA reached $300 million.

Cash Reserves

The financial stability of the company appears solid, with cash and cash equivalents totaling $1 billion and restricted cash standing at $98 million as of the end of September 2024.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, H World Group foresees revenue growth for the fourth quarter ranging from 1% to 5%, excluding the DH segment. CEO Jin Hui commented on the challenges, stating that, "The blended RevPAR for Legacy-Huazhu decreased by 8% year-over-year, primarily due to a high ADR base from last year and unfavorable weather conditions. However, our occupancy rate remained strong at 85%, reflecting our rapid hotel network expansion."

Expansion Strategies

Jin emphasized the company’s ambition to extend its reach across various regions and deepen its penetration in lower-tier cities across China. This strategy aims to secure a larger portion of China’s hotel market by offering high-quality hotel products complemented by excellent service.

Performance Beyond China

Beyond its domestic market, H World Group's Legacy-DH business saw a 3.7% increase in blended RevPAR during the third quarter of 2024. Jin noted that the company is actively focusing on cost reduction strategies within its European operations while exploring growth opportunities in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East markets.

Current Stock Performance

As of the latest trading update, shares of H World Group are down 5.89%, trading at $33.10.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the adjusted earnings per share for H World Group in Q3?

The adjusted earnings per share for H World Group in the third quarter were 61 cents.

Did H World Group meet its revenue expectations in Q3?

No, H World Group's revenue of $918 million fell short of the expected $933.86 million.

How is H World Group planning to grow in the future?

The company plans to expand its presence in various regions, particularly in lower-tier cities in China.

What is the current financial status of H World Group?

As of September 30, 2024, the company had $1 billion in cash and cash equivalents.

How did the Legacy-DH segment perform in Q3?

The Legacy-DH segment recorded an 8.9% year-over-year increase in revenue during the quarter.

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