Uber reportedly weighing purchase of Expedia

Shares of Expedia Group surged after the Financial Times reported that ride-hailing giant Uber was considering acquiring the travel-booking platform

Some raised concerns about the potential size and complexity of such a deal, while others questioned whether it could distract from Uber's core focus on ride-hailing and deliveries as it seeks to expand into the broader but highly competitive travel sector.

Key takeaways

• Expedia, valued at $19.6 billion, would be Uber's largest acquisition to date;
• According to the Financial Times, Uber's interest in acquiring Expedia is in the "very early stages" and the ride-hailing giant has not made a formal approach. There are currently no active negotiations;
• Bernstein analysts commented, "While Dara's experience as the former CEO of Expedia is relevant, this would be a significant departure from Uber's core business through M&A, which makes us uncomfortable as Uber bulls."

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