Booking Holdings Stock Price, News & Analysis

Affirm (NASDAQ: AFRM) has partnered with KAYAK, becoming its exclusive pay-over-time provider in the U.S. This collaboration allows travelers to book flights, accommodations, and car rentals while paying in monthly installments without hidden fees. With KAYAK reporting a 40% increase in flight prices yet a 46% rise in overall search demand, this partnership aims to enhance payment flexibility for consumers. Travelers can split costs over $150, improving spending power amidst rising travel prices. Affirm's existing network includes 245,000 merchants, enhancing its market presence.

Agoda reports a significant resurgence in international travel for New Year's Eve, revealing a 29% increase in searches compared to last year and an impressive 88% rise over 2020. Notably, searches have surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 41%. Tokyo tops the list for Asia, while New York City and London lead in North America and Europe, respectively. The data indicates a diverse range of preferences, with urban and beach destinations both popular. Agoda, part of Booking Holdings (BKNG), operates a network of 2.9 million hotels and properties globally.

The new winter travel hub launched by KAYAK and Turo enhances the car booking experience for travelers this holiday season. With over 1,400 car models available, users can utilize an interactive quiz to find their ideal vehicle. Interest in peer-to-peer car sharing on KAYAK has doubled this fall compared to earlier this year, indicating rising demand. The hub aims to simplify the booking process and drive traffic to Turo's local hosts, showcasing the growing synergy between travel and car sharing.

Agoda has announced the winners of its 14th annual Gold Circle Awards, recognizing over 2000 properties across 41 markets. Thailand retained its top position, followed by Taiwan and Japan. Notably, India joined the top 10 for the first time. Mainland China received the highest number of awards for four years in a row. Each awarded property exemplified excellence in value, service, and flexibility. Winners are showcased on Agoda's website through December 31, 2022, and will receive a digital badge and marketing credits. Agoda, a part of Booking Holdings (BKNG), operates a network of 2.9M accommodations worldwide.

Priceline has announced a strategic partnership with British Airways and Iberia under the New Distribution Capability (NDC) framework. This collaboration will enhance Priceline's inventory, providing customers with access to a wider range of fares, flexible booking options, and ancillary services like seat selection and baggage. The partnership aims to improve customer experience through better connectivity and increased inventory across Priceline's platforms, which also include Booking Holdings and Agoda.

Booking Holdings has announced the expansion of its Travel Sustainable program, making credible sustainability information accessible to travelers through its various platforms by the end of 2023. This initiative highlights accommodations worldwide that engage in significant sustainability efforts, with over 400,000 properties already recognized. The program will feature a Travel Sustainable badge across brands like Priceline, Agoda, and KAYAK, along with additional filters for sustainable options. This expansion aligns with Booking Holdings' Climate Action Plan, aiming for a more responsible travel industry.

KAYAK's recent study reveals that 70% of Americans planning to travel by air this holiday season feel anxious about busy airports and potential flight delays. To alleviate travel stress, KAYAK is offering a complimentary 3-month CLEAR Plus membership, facilitating quicker passage through security. Travelers can sign up for this promotion until December 31, 2022. KAYAK aims to enhance the travel experience during the busy holiday period through tools like price forecasting and customized alerts, ensuring a smoother booking process.