Fintech PR

Opera Limited announces second quarter 2021 financial results, revenue growth exceeds expectations and adjusted EBITDA meets expectations

Published

3 years ago

August 12, 2021

Opera Limited (NASDAQ: OPRA), one of the world’s largest internet consumer brands with hundreds of millions of users worldwide, today announced its unaudited consolidated financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2021.

Second quarter 2021 financial highlights

	Three Months Ended June 30,						Year-over-			Six Months Ended June 30,						Year-over-
[US$ thousands, except for margins and per ADS amounts]	2020			2021 Advertisement			year % change			2020			2021			year % change
Revenue		32,217			60,161			86.7 Advertisement	%		72,411			111,744			54.3	%

Net income (loss)		17,141			44,287			158.4	% Advertisement		(3,722)			44,926			n.m.
Margin		53.2	%		73.6	%					(5.1)	% Advertisement		40.2	%

Adjusted EBITDA (1)		598			(1,015)			n.m.			255			3,561			1296.5	% Advertisement
Margin		1.9	%		(1.7)	%					0.4	%		3.2	%

Adjusted net income (1) Advertisement		19,397			49,144			153.4	%		7,123			53,751			654.6	%
Margin		60.2 Advertisement	%		81.7	%					9.8	%		48.1	%

Diluted net income per ADS, US$		0.13			0.38 Advertisement			187.9	%		(0.03)			0.39			n.m.

Diluted adjusted net income per ADS, US$ (1)		0.16			0.42			162.6	% Advertisement		0.06			0.46			666.7	%

(1) Please see the separate section “About non-IFRS financial measures” for the definitions of adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income.

“We’re pleased to report yet another strong quarter and again raise revenue guidance for the year”, said Opera Co-CEO Song Lin. “As people continue to shift their lives online, they want to be able to choose a browser that can be personalized to reflect the way they lead their digital lives. Opera is that browser, and we see a huge opportunity ahead of us as we continue to meet these needs. In addition, we are well underway to seize opportunities both on the content side with News and Gaming and geographic expansion to higher monetizing regions.”

“Every aspect of our business is performing: the innovations and features that are attracting more users and allowing us to push into new geographies and new categories, our ability to monetize our user base, and even the value of our investments” concluded Song Lin. “We’re looking forward to continued growth in 2021.”

Second Quarter and Recent Business Highlights

Core search and advertising revenue growth rates accelerated to 94% year-over-year in Q2 driven by strong browser and news performance
Opera’s monthly active user base was relatively stable compared to the second quarter of 2020; however, within the total our user base saw a directional shift towards higher ARPU markets. We directed our focus towards growing North America which saw 52% user growth, and Europe with 15% user growth, and less focus on Asia as we continue to target higher monetizing users
The Company reached 78 million average monthly PC users in the second quarter, up 4% year-over-year
The Opera GX browser user base now has 10 million users on desktop and already exceeds one million on mobile
Opera announced over 1 billion cumulative downloads on the Google Play Store
Opera News revenue grew 442% year-over-year and 49% sequentially versus the first quarter of 2021; Opera Football, a vertically focused news site which launched in June, and already has over 10 million users
Continued scaling our other strategic growth initiatives; we launched our cashback offering under the Dify brand in Spain which led to a four-fold increase in facilitated e-commerce transactions in our browsers from April to June in that market, and we continued to build out the Opera gaming platform/community
Hype, our in-browser messaging app for Opera Mini, launched in three more African markets during the quarter and already has over 1 million sign-ups
Opera monetized 29% of its stake in OPay for total consideration of $50 million

Business Outlook

“Building off the strong start to the year, we have even greater confidence and expectations for the second half of 2021” said Opera CFO, Frode Jacobsen. “The investments we have made in our ‘Browser+’ strategy are becoming material and apparent in our financial results, on top of healthy core browser revenue growth.”

For the full year of 2021, Opera now expects revenue of $242 million to $247 million, representing a 48% year-over-year increase versus 2020 at the midpoint. Following the successful execution of our growth strategy to date, we have additional confidence in continuing our growth investments and expect adjusted EBITDA to come in between $10 and $20 million for the year.

For the third quarter of 2021, Opera expects revenue of $63 million to $65 million, representing 51% year-over-year growth at the midpoint. This is being driven by further acceleration in our core businesses and the continued growth of Opera News. Adjusted EBITDA will be around breakeven as Opera continues to invest significantly in the growth of its businesses.

Other updates

Nanobank continued its rebound with revenue of $57.3 million, a 14% sequential increase versus the prior quarter. Nanobank expects sequential growth in the second half of the year to continue at this level or higher, however the company has been required to remain cautious in light of the continued implications of COVID in its markets, in particular as it relates to India. Adjusted EBITDA was $1.6 million following a re-assessment of its credit loss provisions in light of current market conditions.

During the quarter, we monetized 29% of our stake in OPay for a total consideration of $50 million, representing a gain of $31.1 million compared to the previous carrying amount on our balance sheet. In addition, we recognized a financial gain related to the associated step-up in the fair value of our retained preference shares in OPay.

Second quarter 2021 consolidated financial results

All comparisons in this section are relative to the second quarter of 2020 unless otherwise stated. Income and expenses from our former emerging markets fintech and retail operations are not included in comparisons as they are classified as discontinued operations.

Revenue increased 87% to $60.2 million in the quarter.

Search revenue increased by 69% to $29.8 million driven by both PC and mobile browser monetization growth.
Advertising revenue increased by 128% to $28.9 million, predominantly fueled by monetization growth within Opera News and our mobile browsers.
Technology licensing and other revenue was $1.4 million, a $0.5 million decline compared to the same period of the previous year as we have been phasing out low-margin professional services for an investee.

Operating expenses increased by 77% to $68.2 million.

Combined technology and platform fees, content cost and cost of inventory sold was $2.7 million, a 24% increase following the scaling of associated revenues.
Personnel expenses, including share-based remuneration, were $18.5 million, a 29% increase as we are investing in new products and services. This expense consists of cash-based compensation expense of $16.5 million, and $1.9 million of share-based remuneration expense.
Marketing and distribution expenses were $35.3 million, an increase of 254% or $25.3 million versus Q2 2020, and 51% or $11.9 million versus Q1 2021. We are investing in accelerating the growth of our business, with Opera News in developed markets representing the biggest driver of the increases in both comparisons.
Depreciation and amortization expenses were $5.1 million, a 6% increase.
Other operating expenses were $6.4 million, a 6% decrease.

Operating loss was $7.9 million compared to an operating loss of $0.3 million in the second quarter of 2020.

Other items in the quarter include a $57.5 million increase in the fair value of our preferred shares in OPay, recorded as other income from long-term investments. This was partially offset by our share of loss from associates and joint ventures of $2.3 million. Further, we recorded a net finance loss of $4.9 million related to marketable securities held as part of our treasury function and net foreign exchange loss, as compared to a $9.2 million gain in the second quarter of 2020.

Income tax benefit was $2.0 million in the quarter.

Net income was $44.3 million. This compared to net income of $17.1 million in the second quarter of 2020.

Net income per ADS was $0.38 in the quarter. Each ADS represents two shares in Opera Limited. In the quarter, the average number of shares outstanding was 230.3 million, corresponding to 115.1 million ADSs.

Adjusted EBITDA was negative $1.0 million and in line with the previous guidance, representing a negative 2% adjusted EBITDA margin, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $0.6 million in the second quarter of 2020. Adjusted EBITDA excludes share-based remuneration and non-recurring expenses, as well as other income and discontinued operations.

Adjusted net income was $49.1 million in the quarter, compared to adjusted net income of $19.4 million in the second quarter of 2020. Adjusted net income excludes share-based remuneration, non-recurring expenses, discontinued operations and amortization of intangible assets related to acquisitions.

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Fintech PR

Joe Depa named as EY Global Chief Innovation Officer to lead its global innovation strategy

Published

4 hours ago

November 26, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

joe-depa-named-as-ey-global-chief-innovation-officer-to-lead-its-global-innovation-strategy

Depa will lead on the discovery and deployment of emerging technologies to help address business challenges and shape the future with confidence
Brings deep experience in identifying new ways that can practically help business transformation through an innovation mindset and culture shift

LONDON, Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The EY organization announces today the appointment of Joe Depa as the new EY Global Chief Innovation Officer, effective immediately. Within this role, he will spearhead applied innovation to help improve service delivery and guide EY teams to address and solve business challenges.

Depa joins the EY organization at a pivotal moment, as a range of emerging technologies are reshaping businesses and industries, creating a multitude of new challenges and opportunities. To keep pace, the EY organization is continuing to make significant investments in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing and blockchain, and most recently formed the EY.ai Global AI Advisory Council.

In his new role, Depa will be leading the organization’s global innovation strategy. This will include overseeing efforts to successfully implement emerging technologies for tangible business applications, both internally and across work of EY member firms with clients.

Raj Sharma, EY Global Managing Partner of Growth and Innovation, says:

“At this time of constant disruption, success would require a forward-thinking approach and willingness to make bold decisions, which are at the heart of an innovative mindset. We’re thrilled to have Joe’s deep experience and knowledge around AI and data to lead on our strategic approach to innovation so that EY teams can help clients shape their future more confidently.”

Throughout the last decade, Depa has worked closely with C-suite leaders and boards to bring innovative products and services to market, improve client and employee experiences, and help enhance operational efficiencies through technology. Most recently, he served as the inaugural Chief Data and AI Officer at a leading university and health care organization. At the university, he helped to promote AI literacy, launch a responsible AI governance program and enable a secure data foundation. Prior to that, he acted as Senior Managing Director and Global Lead for Data and AI at a global multinational professional services company, where he led a team of AI strategists and data engineers in developing and implementing new products and services.

Joe Depa, EY Global Chief Innovation Officer, says:

“I’m truly excited to join an organization that is ‘All in’ on its commitment to the transformative potential of emerging technologies. I look forward to working with the EY teams and clients to help empower them to apply innovation in bold, new ways that help create value for clients through data, AI and emerging technologies to make the world a better place.”

A renowned thought leader in the field of AI, Depa has been recognized as one of the “Top 50 Global Leaders” by World Summit AI and has received Fast Company’s “World Changing Idea” award, among other accolades.

For more information, visit: ey.com.

About EY

EY is building a better working world by creating new value for clients, people, society and the planet, while building trust in capital markets.

Enabled by data, AI and advanced technology, EY teams help clients shape the future with confidence and develop answers for the most pressing issues of today and tomorrow.

EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions. Fueled by sector insights, a globally connected, multi-disciplinary network and diverse ecosystem partners, EY teams can provide services in more than 150 countries and territories.

All in to shape the future with confidence.

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. EY member firms do not practice law where prohibited by local laws. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

This news release has been issued by EYGM Limited, a member of the global EY organization that also does not provide any services to clients.

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Fintech

Fintech Pulse: A Daily Dive into Industry Innovations and Developments

Published

6 hours ago

November 26, 2024

Peter Tolan

fintech-pulse:-a-daily-dive-into-industry-innovations-and-developments

The financial technology sector continues to evolve at a rapid pace, offering innovations that disrupt traditional paradigms. Today’s briefing underscores fintech’s diverse growth avenues: from substantial venture capital plays and strategic partnerships to groundbreaking implementations in lending. Here’s a closer look at recent developments shaping the landscape.

Synapse’s Comeback and Andreessen Horowitz’s Strategic Bet

Source: Axios
Synapse, a financial infrastructure company previously embattled by controversy, is staging a remarkable comeback, backed by none other than venture capital heavyweight Andreessen Horowitz (a16z). With this new infusion of funds, Synapse aims to consolidate its position as a premier platform for building financial services tools.

This resurgence demonstrates the resilience of the fintech ecosystem, where innovation often prevails over turbulence. Synapse’s renewed vigor also signals that top-tier investors remain bullish on infrastructural solutions pivotal to the future of digital finance. Andreessen Horowitz’s participation not only validates Synapse’s model but also underscores the VC giant’s enduring interest in fintech infrastructure, even amid global economic uncertainties.

Analysis:
This partnership exemplifies the dynamism within fintech, highlighting the interplay of innovation, capital, and resilience. It also raises questions about the broader implications of giving second chances to firms with turbulent histories. While Synapse’s evolution could inspire others, it also places a spotlight on governance and accountability in high-growth sectors.

Israel’s Fintech Scene Gets a Boost with Investment in Finova Capital

Source: Calcalistech
Israeli fintech startup Finova Capital has raised an impressive $20 million in a funding round led by prominent institutional investors. This marks a significant milestone for the company as it seeks to expand its suite of financial solutions aimed at underserved markets.

Israel’s fintech ecosystem has long been recognized as a hub of innovation, and this latest investment only reinforces its global standing. Finova Capital’s focus on empowering smaller businesses and fostering financial inclusivity aligns with emerging trends where tech-driven solutions bridge critical gaps in financial services.

Analysis:
With this funding, Finova is poised to enhance its technological offerings while contributing to economic inclusion. However, the broader fintech industry will watch closely to see how the company leverages this capital amid increasing competition from regional and global players.

India’s Yubi Plans a Fundraising Push

Source: Bloomberg
Yubi, a prominent Indian fintech platform backed by Insight Partners, is reportedly preparing for a new fundraising round. Having already established itself as a leader in credit infrastructure, Yubi aims to bolster its offerings and expand its market footprint.

India’s fintech landscape is witnessing explosive growth, with platforms like Yubi playing a critical role in the credit ecosystem. Yubi’s planned fundraising reflects the broader appetite for scaling solutions that streamline credit access, particularly in emerging markets where traditional lending models often fall short.

Analysis:
This development highlights two key trends: the increasing reliance on credit platforms in high-growth economies and the strategic role of international investors like Insight Partners in driving fintech innovation. Yubi’s expansion plans could set a precedent for other regional fintech players seeking to scale amid global economic headwinds.

Provenir and Hastings Financial Services Win Global Recognition

Source: Business Wire
In a testament to the transformative power of digital lending solutions, Provenir and Hastings Financial Services have been jointly recognized for the Best Digital Lending Implementation at the IBSi Global Fintech Innovation Awards. This accolade underscores the success of their collaboration in modernizing the lending process through cutting-edge technology.

Provenir’s advanced decision-making platform and Hastings Financial Services’ lending expertise have delivered a solution that significantly enhances user experience, operational efficiency, and risk management. Such innovations highlight the increasing role of partnerships in advancing fintech’s digital transformation.

Analysis:
This recognition not only validates the efficacy of digital lending but also emphasizes the importance of partnerships in driving innovation. It signals to the industry that collaboration can be a powerful tool for staying ahead in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Microf and Quantum Financial Technologies Forge New Alliances

Source: PR Newswire
Microf, a financial solutions provider, has announced a strategic partnership with Quantum Financial Technologies. This collaboration aims to expand lending solutions for contractors, providing streamlined access to capital for businesses in need of flexible financing options.

This partnership is a timely response to the growing demand for specialized financial products in niche markets. By leveraging Quantum’s technology, Microf can now offer more tailored solutions, particularly to contractors navigating complex financial requirements.

Analysis:
This development reflects a growing trend: the diversification of fintech offerings to serve specific market segments. As competition in mainstream fintech intensifies, targeting underserved niches could become a defining strategy for success.

Key Takeaways for the Fintech Ecosystem

Resilience in Fintech Funding: Despite economic uncertainties, venture capital continues to fuel innovative fintech players like Synapse and Finova Capital.
Regional Growth Stories: From Israel to India, fintech ecosystems are thriving, attracting global attention and investment.
Collaboration as a Catalyst: The success of partnerships like Provenir-Hastings and Microf-Quantum underscores the importance of strategic alliances.
The Power of Recognition: Awards like the IBSi Fintech Innovation Awards validate industry achievements, inspiring others to push the envelope.
Focus on Inclusion: Whether through credit platforms or lending solutions, fintech is playing a pivotal role in fostering financial inclusivity worldwide.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

The fintech sector’s journey is far from linear. Regulatory complexities, technological disruptions, and market volatility remain persistent challenges. However, as seen in today’s developments, the opportunities far outweigh the risks. By prioritizing innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity, fintech players can navigate the complexities of the global financial landscape.

This moment in fintech history is pivotal. It’s a time for bold decisions, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to bridging financial divides. As industry players rise to the occasion, the road ahead promises a future where technology and finance intertwine to empower individuals and businesses alike.

The post Fintech Pulse: A Daily Dive into Industry Innovations and Developments appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.

Fintech PR

BIZCLIK MEDIA LAUNCHES DECEMBER EDITION OF FINTECH MAGAZINE

Published

7 hours ago

November 26, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

The December edition of FinTech Magazine includes interviews with leading experts and executives from Alipay+, Marqeta & Flyfish

LONDON, Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — BizClik, the UK’s fastest-growing publishing company, has released the latest edition of FinTech Magazine.This publication is highly regarded by voices within the Financial Sector for its in-depth reports and interviews with prominent figures in the industry.

FinTech Magazine

This month’s edition features an exclusive lead interview with Flyfish C-Suite, Savvas Pashias, Shay Merary and Michael Zetser on how they have developed a platform for SMEs to access banking services, as traditional infrastructure struggles to meet increasing cross-border needs.

“The UniFi platform is inherently scalable, designed to growin line with a company’s expansion and service requirements” – Michael Zetser, CEO, Flyfish

The edition also contains extensive interviews with key thought leaders from Marqeta, Sidekick, PayU and more. Plus the Top 10: Decacorns

You can visit FinTech Magazine for daily news and analysis of the ever-changing financial industry.

About BizClik

BizClik is one of the fastest-growing digital media companies in the UK, host to a growing portfolio of industry-leading global brands and communities.

BizClik’s expanding portfolio includes Technology, AI, FinTech, InsurTech, Supply Chain, Procurement, Energy, Mining, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Mobile, Data Centre, Cyber, and Sustainability.

For more information, please visit our website.

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