CLEAR Announces an Increase to its Share Repurchase Authorization

Rhea-AI Summary

Clear Secure, Inc. (YOU) announced a $100 million increase to its share repurchase program, with $84.9 million already used to repurchase 4.4 million shares at an average price of $19.22. Approximately $141 million remains available for repurchases. Capital allocation is a key focus, with $157 million returned to shareholders in 2024 through repurchases and dividends.

Financial Analyst

The announcement of Clear Secure, Inc.'s increase in their share repurchase program signifies a robust capital return policy, which can be interpreted as a sign of self-confidence from the company's management. The repurchase of shares can lead to an earnings per share (EPS) boost, as the reduction in outstanding shares spreads the company's earnings over a smaller share base. This can be particularly attractive to investors as it often leads to a higher stock price.

However, it's essential to consider the opportunity cost of such a buyback. The $100 million could alternatively be used for investments in growth opportunities or paying down debt. The decision to opt for a buyback suggests that management believes the stock is undervalued or that there are no better uses for the cash that would provide a higher return.

Market Research Analyst

The market's reaction to share buyback announcements can vary, but they are generally seen as a positive signal, indicating that a company believes its stock is undervalued. The repurchase program also serves as a tool for adjusting the capital structure and can be a tax-efficient way to return capital to shareholders compared to dividends.

It's important to note that the effectiveness of such programs depends on the timing and the price at which shares are repurchased. If shares are bought back at a price higher than their intrinsic value, it could lead to a destruction of shareholder value. Conversely, repurchasing shares at a lower price can be accretive to shareholder value. Investors will be keeping a close eye on the company's ability to execute the buyback efficiently.

Economist

From an economic perspective, share buybacks can be indicative of broader economic trends. When companies across the board engage in aggressive buyback programs, it may suggest a mature market environment where growth opportunities are less apparent, pushing companies to return capital to shareholders rather than reinvesting it. This can have implications for the economy's growth prospects.

Moreover, the company's decision to allocate a significant amount of capital to share repurchases must be weighed against the backdrop of economic conditions, including interest rates and corporate debt levels. In a low-interest-rate environment, buybacks are more attractive as the cost of borrowing is lower. Conversely, if interest rates rise, the cost of buybacks could increase, potentially making them less favorable.

NEW YORK, March 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Clear Secure, Inc. (NYSE: YOU) ("CLEAR" or the "Company") today announced that its Board of Directors (the "Board") authorized a $100 million increase to its existing Class A Common Stock share repurchase program. During the first quarter of 2024, the Company used $84.9 million to repurchase and retire 4.4 million shares of Class A Common Stock at an average price of $19.22. Including the $100 million increase announced today, approximately $141 million in aggregate remains available under the repurchase authorization.

"Capital allocation remains a key priority. Year-to-date share repurchases, our regular dividend and today's special dividend announcement represent approximately $157 million already returned to shareholders in 2024," said Kenneth Cornick, CLEAR's President and Chief Financial Officer.

The timing and actual number of shares repurchased pursuant the Company's repurchase program will be determined by management depending on a variety of factors, including stock price, trading volume, market conditions, and other general business considerations.

About CLEAR
CLEAR's mission is to create frictionless experiences. With more than 20 million members and a growing network of partners across the world, CLEAR's identity platform is transforming the way people live, work, and travel. Whether you are traveling, at the stadium, or on your phone, CLEAR connects you to the things that make you, you – making everyday experiences easier, more secure, and friction-free. CLEAR is committed to privacy done right. Members are always in control of their own information, and we never sell member data. For more information, visit clearme.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
This release may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that any and such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results, developments and events may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including those described in the Company's filings within the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the sections titled "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10- K. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein.

Contact:
Investor Relations
IR@clearme.com

Media
Media@clearme.com 

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SOURCE CLEAR

How much did Clear Secure, Inc. (YOU) increase its share repurchase program by?

Clear Secure, Inc. (YOU) announced a $100 million increase to its existing share repurchase program.

How many shares did Clear Secure, Inc. (YOU) repurchase in the first quarter of 2024?

Clear Secure, Inc. (YOU) repurchased and retired 4.4 million shares of Class A Common Stock in the first quarter of 2024.

At what average price did Clear Secure, Inc. (YOU) repurchase its shares?

Clear Secure, Inc. (YOU) repurchased shares at an average price of $19.22.

How much money remains available for share repurchases after the $100 million increase?

Approximately $141 million remains available for share repurchases after the $100 million increase.

How much has Clear Secure, Inc. (YOU) returned to shareholders in 2024?

Clear Secure, Inc. (YOU) has returned approximately $157 million to shareholders in 2024 through repurchases and dividends.