STOCK TITAN

Cars.com (NYSE: CARS) doubles Q2 net income, boosts 2026 buybacks

(High)
(Neutral)
Form Type
8-K

Rhea-AI Filing Summary

Cars.com Inc. reported second-quarter 2026 revenue of $179.9 million, up 1% year-over-year, with Marketplace revenue growing over 7% for its fastest quarterly pace since 2021. Net income rose to $14.3 million and Adjusted EBITDA to $53.0 million, a 29.4% margin that exceeded the 28–29% guidance range as total operating expenses fell 7%.

OEM and National revenue declined 18% year-over-year to $13.6 million, in line with expectations for weaker OEM advertising. Average Monthly Unique Visitors decreased to 22.8 million and Traffic to 143.0 million, while Monthly Average Revenue Per Dealer increased to $2,500 and dealer customers remained roughly stable at 19,343. For the first six months, net cash from operations was $55.6 million and Free cash flow $43.5 million; total debt was $450.0 million with liquidity of $333.3 million.

The company repurchased 3.7 million shares for $37 million in the quarter and 6.2 million shares for $57 million year-to-date, more than 10% of prior-year-end shares, leaving $116.6 million under its authorization expiring February 2028. For third-quarter 2026, revenue is expected to be flat to up 2% year-over-year with Adjusted EBITDA margin of 28.5–29.5%. Full-year 2026 guidance is reaffirmed for revenue flat to up 2% and Adjusted EBITDA margin of 29.0–30.0%.

Positive

  • Net income more than doubled to $14.3 million, with diluted EPS rising to $0.25, driven primarily by stronger operating income and lower expenses.
  • Adjusted EBITDA increased to $53.0 million with a 29.4% margin, exceeding the guided 28–29% range and demonstrating operating leverage on modest revenue growth.
  • Marketplace revenue grew over 7% year-over-year, the fastest quarterly rate since 2021, more than offsetting the anticipated decline in OEM revenue.
  • Year-to-date share repurchases of 6.2 million shares for $57 million, representing over 10% of prior-year-end shares, alongside $116.6 million remaining authorization, reflect substantial capital return.

Negative

  • Average Monthly Unique Visitors declined to 22.8 million and Traffic to 143.0 million, year-over-year decreases of 14% and 12%, respectively.
  • OEM and National revenue fell 18% year-over-year to $13.6 million and is expected to continue facing pressure from reduced OEM advertising investment.

Filing Explained

Cars.com furnished its second-quarter results under Form 8-K Item 2.02; the report and Exhibit 99.1 are not deemed filed under Exchange Act Section 18 or incorporated by reference, limiting the disclosure’s filing-status effect.

Item 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition Financial
Disclosure of earnings results, typically an earnings press release or preliminary financials.
Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits Exhibits
Financial statements, pro forma financial information, and exhibit attachments filed with this report.
Q2 2026 Revenue $179.9 million Second quarter 2026 total revenue, up 1% year-over-year
Q2 2026 Net income $14.3 million Second quarter 2026 net income, up 103% year-over-year
Q2 2026 Adjusted EBITDA $53.0 million Second quarter 2026 Adjusted EBITDA with 29.4% margin
Q2 2026 Adjusted EBITDA margin 29.4% Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenue in Q2 2026, above 28–29% guidance
YTD 2026 Share repurchases 6.2 million shares; $57 million Common shares repurchased and retired year-to-date through June 30, 2026, over 10% of prior-year-end shares
Total debt outstanding $450.0 million Debt balance as of June 30, 2026
Total liquidity $333.3 million Cash and cash equivalents of $33.3 million plus $300.0 million revolver capacity as of June 30, 2026
Average Monthly Unique Visitors 22.8 million Average Monthly Unique Visitors for Q2 2026, down 14% year-over-year
Adjusted EBITDA financial
"Adjusted EBITDA grew to $53.0 million, up 4% year-over-year; Adjusted EBITDA margin of 29.4%"
Adjusted EBITDA is a way companies measure how much money they make from their core operations, like running a business, by removing certain costs or income that aren’t part of regular business activities. It helps investors see how well a company is doing without distractions from unusual expenses or gains, making it easier to compare companies or track performance over time.
Free cash flow financial
"Free cash flow for the six-month period ended June 30, 2026 totaled $43.5 million"
Free cash flow is the amount of money a company has left over after paying all its expenses and investing in its business, like buying equipment or updating facilities. It shows how much cash is available to reward shareholders, pay down debt, or save for future growth. This helps investors understand if a company is financially healthy and able to grow.
Average Monthly Unique Visitors market
"Average Monthly Unique Visitors | 22.8 ... Change % Y/Y (14%)"
Monthly Average Revenue Per Dealer financial
"Monthly Average Revenue Per Dealer (“ARPD”) | $ 2,500 ... Change % Y/Y 3%"
Dealer Customers market
"Dealer Customers | 19,343 | 19,390 | 19,412 | NM"
Non-GAAP financial measures financial
"This earnings release discusses Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, Adjusted net income, Free Cash Flow"
Non-GAAP financial measures are numbers companies use to show their financial performance that exclude certain expenses or income. They help investors see how the company might perform without one-time costs or other unusual items, giving a different perspective from official reports. However, since they can be adjusted, they don’t always tell the full story and should be looked at alongside standard financial figures.
Revenue $179.9 million up 1% year-over-year
Net income $14.3 million up 103% year-over-year
Adjusted EBITDA $53.0 million up 4% year-over-year
Diluted EPS $0.25 up 127% year-over-year
Adjusted diluted EPS $0.51 up 22% year-over-year
Guidance

For Q3 2026, revenue is expected to be flat to up 2% year-over-year with Adjusted EBITDA margin between 28.5% and 29.5%. For full-year 2026, guidance is reaffirmed for revenue to be flat to up 2% year-over-year and Adjusted EBITDA margin between 29.0% and 30.0%.

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FAQ

What were Cars.com (CARS) Q2 2026 revenue and earnings?

Cars.com reported Q2 2026 revenue of $179.9 million, up 1% year-over-year, and net income of $14.3 million. Adjusted EBITDA was $53.0 million with a 29.4% margin, and diluted EPS was $0.25 (adjusted diluted EPS $0.51).

How did Marketplace and OEM revenues perform for Cars.com (CARS) in Q2 2026?

Marketplace revenue grew over 7% year-over-year, the fastest quarterly growth since 2021. OEM and National revenue was $13.6 million, down 18% year-over-year, consistent with previously communicated expectations for lower OEM advertising spending.

What capital returns did Cars.com (CARS) deliver in 2026 year-to-date?

Year-to-date through June 30, 2026, Cars.com repurchased 6.2 million shares of common stock for $57 million. These repurchases and retirements represent over 10% of common shares outstanding at the prior year-end, with $116.6 million remaining under the authorization.

What guidance did Cars.com (CARS) provide for Q3 and full-year 2026?

For Q3 2026, revenue is expected to be flat to up 2% year-over-year, with Adjusted EBITDA margin of 28.5%–29.5%. For full-year 2026, guidance is reaffirmed for revenue flat to up 2% and Adjusted EBITDA margin between 29.0% and 30.0%.

How did key operating metrics trend for Cars.com (CARS) in Q2 2026?

Average Monthly Unique Visitors were 22.8 million, down 14% year-over-year, and Traffic was 143.0 million, down 12%. Monthly Average Revenue Per Dealer increased to $2,500 (up 3% year-over-year), with dealer customers roughly flat at 19,343.

What is Cars.com (CARS) liquidity and debt position as of June 30, 2026?

Total debt outstanding was $450.0 million, and total liquidity was $333.3 million. Liquidity comprised $33.3 million of cash and cash equivalents plus $300.0 million of available revolver capacity as of June 30, 2026.
false000168360600016836062026-08-062026-08-06

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 8-K

 

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): August 06, 2026

 

 

Cars.com Inc.

(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

 

Delaware

001-37869

81-3693660

(State or Other Jurisdiction
of Incorporation)

(Commission File Number)

(IRS Employer
Identification No.)

 

 

 

 

 

300 S. Riverside Plaza

Suite 1100

 

Chicago, Illinois

 

60606

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

 

(Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code: 312 601-5000

 

 

(Former Name or Former Address, if Changed Since Last Report)

 

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)
Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:


Title of each class

 

Trading
Symbol(s)

 


Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock

 

CARS

 

The New York Stock Exchange

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§ 230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§ 240.12b-2 of this chapter).

Emerging growth company

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

 


 

Item 2.02 Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

 

On August 6, 2026, Cars.com Inc. (the “Company”) issued a press release announcing its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026. A copy of the press release is furnished as Exhibit 99.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

 

 

 

 

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.

 

(d) Exhibits

 

 

Exhibit

No.

 

Exhibit

 

 

 

99.1

 

Cars.com Inc. Press Release, dated August 6, 2026, concerning financial results

 

 

 

104

 

Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The information furnished in this report, including Exhibit 99.1 shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or otherwise subject to the liabilities under that section, nor shall it be deemed to be incorporated by reference in any filing made by the Company under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except as otherwise expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing.

 

 

 


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

 

 

 

Cars.com Inc.

 

 

 

 

Date:

August 6, 2026

By:

/s/ Sonia Jain

 

 

 

Sonia Jain
Chief Financial Officer

 


Ehibit 99.1

Cars.com Reports Second Quarter 2026 Results

 

Delivered expected revenue growth and strong profitability, underpinned by focused strategy with highest Marketplace revenue growth in five years

 

Revenue grew to $179.9 million, up 1% year-over-year and in line with guidance
Net income increased to $14.3 million, up 103% year-over-year
Adjusted EBITDA grew to $53.0 million, up 4% year-over-year; Adjusted EBITDA margin of 29.4%, outperformed guidance range of 28% to 29% margin
Share repurchases totaled 3.7 million shares for $37 million; year-to-date share repurchases totaled 6.2 million shares for $57 million and are on pace to 2026 target of $90 million

CHICAGO, August 6, 2026 -- Cars.com Inc. (NYSE: CARS), a trusted audience-powered and data-driven technology platform that simplifies buying and selling cars, today released its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026.

“We delivered revenue and profitability growth in the second quarter while making steady progress on our Marketplace-focused strategy. Deliberate prioritization of Marketplace product, processes, and organizational improvements drove Marketplace revenue growth to its highest level since 2021, more than offsetting the expected decline in OEM revenue. New product launches, such as Dealer Verified Listings, as well as stronger customer value delivery through more precise audience targeting, are encouraging signals. Looking ahead, we will deploy these learnings and operational drivers across our ecosystem to deliver sustainable long-term growth and value creation,” said Tobias Hartmann, Chief Executive Officer of Cars.com, Inc.

Financial Highlights

 

(in thousands, except per share data)

Quarter Ended June 30,

 

 

 

2026

 

2025

 

Change %

 

Revenue

$ 179,934

 

$ 178,739

 

1%

 

Net income

14,263

 

7,009

 

103%

 

Adjusted net income

28,699

 

26,412

 

9%

 

Adjusted EBITDA

52,981

 

50,898

 

4%

 

Net income per diluted share

0.25

 

0.11

 

127%

 

Adjusted net income per diluted share

0.51

 

0.41

 

22%

 

 

 

Key Metrics and Operational Highlights

 

 

 

(in millions, except dealer data)

Quarter Ended

 

 

June 30,

2026

 

March 31,

2026

 

June 30,

2025

 

Change %

Q/Q

 

Change % Y/Y

Average Monthly Unique Visitors

22.8

 

25.8

 

26.6

 

(12%)

 

(14%)

Traffic (“Visits”)

143.0

 

159.6

 

162.0

 

(10%)

 

(12%)

Monthly Average Revenue Per Dealer (“ARPD”)

$ 2,500

 

$ 2,473

 

$ 2,435

 

1%

 

3%

Dealer Customers

19,343

 

19,390

 

19,412

 

NM

 

NM

 

NM = Not meaningful

 

Marketplace revenue grew over 7% Y/Y and represents the fastest quarterly growth rate since 2021.

Page 2

Dealer count declined slightly Y/Y, reflecting lower Solutions adoption that was partially offset by Marketplace strength; Marketplace dealer customers grew 2% Y/Y, reaching four consecutive quarters of Y/Y subscriber growth.
Traffic and UV performance reflects a deliberate strategic shift to value delivery, which produced year-to-date growth in lead volume.
Dealer Verified Listings feature launched on marketplace, adding inspection and pricing insights onto vehicle listings.

Q2 2026 Results

Revenue for the second quarter was $179.9 million, up 1% year-over-year. Subscription-based Dealer revenue of $163.3 million was up 3% year-over-year, primarily driven by improved Marketplace value delivery and dealer count, partially offset by a decline in media products. OEM and National revenue of $13.6 million was down 18% year-over-year, consistent with previously communicated expectations of OEM advertising.

Total operating expenses for the second quarter were $152.1 million compared to $163.5 million in the prior year period, down 7% year-over-year. Lower depreciation and amortization was the largest driver of the year-over-year decline, though expenses were broadly down and reflective of improving operating leverage across the business and a partial quarter of efficiencies associated with April cost reduction activities. Adjusted operating expenses were $144.3 million, down 6% year-over-year, driven by the aforementioned factors.

Net income for the second quarter was $14.3 million, or $0.25 per diluted share, compared to $7.0 million, or $0.11 per diluted share, in the year-ago period. The change in Net income is primarily attributable to improved operating income. Adjusted net income for the second quarter was $28.7 million, or $0.51 per diluted share, compared to $26.4 million, or $0.41 per diluted share a year ago.

Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter was $53.0 million, or 29.4% of revenue, compared to $50.9 million, or 28.5% of revenue in the year-ago period. Adjusted EBITDA grew 4% year-over-year, demonstrating operating leverage against revenue growth.

Cash Flow and Balance Sheet

Net cash provided by operating activities for the six-month period ended June 30, 2026 was $55.6 million, compared to $55.7 million in the prior year. Free cash flow for the six-month period ended June 30, 2026 totaled $43.5 million, compared to $41.8 million in the prior year.

Total debt outstanding was $450.0 million as of June 30, 2026. Total liquidity as of June 30, 2026 was $333.3 million, which is defined as Cash and cash equivalents of $33.3 million and revolver capacity of $300.0 million.

Share Repurchase

The Company repurchased 3.7 million shares of common stock for $37 million in the second quarter ended June 30, 2026, and 6.2 million shares of common stock for $57 million year-to-date in 2026. The Company’s 2026 share repurchase target remains $90 million, reflecting its commitment to returning capital to stockholders. Shares repurchased and retired year-to-date through June 30, 2026 represent over 10% of the Company’s common shares outstanding as of prior year end.

As of June 30, 2026, approximately $116.6 million remains available under the current share repurchase authorization, which expires in February 2028.


Page 3

“Second quarter financial performance was anchored by strong Marketplace growth, coupled with improved operating leverage and Adjusted EBITDA margin outperformance. We also continued to return significant capital to stockholders, and are pacing comfortably to our $90 million share repurchase target for 2026. Looking ahead, we remain focused on efficient and disciplined growth to create long-term value for stakeholders,” said Sonia Jain, Chief Financial Officer of Cars.com, Inc.

Outlook

Third Quarter 2026

Revenue is expected to be flat to up 2% year-over-year, driven by continued Dealer revenue growth and Marketplace improvement. OEM and National revenue is expected to reflect ongoing pressure in OEM advertising investment.
Adjusted EBITDA margin is expected to be between 28.5% and 29.5%, reflecting continued operating efficiencies and cost savings.

Full Year 2026

The Company reaffirms its full year 2026 guidance:

Revenue is expected to be flat to up 2% year-over-year
Adjusted EBITDA margin is expected to be between 29.0% to 30.0%

Q2 2026 Earnings Call

As previously announced, management will hold a conference call and webcast today at 8:00 a.m. CT. This webcast may be accessed at the Cars.com Investor Relations website, investor.cars.com. An archive of the webcast will be available at investor.cars.com following the conclusion of the call.

About Cars Commerce

Cars.com Inc. (NYSE:CARS) is a trusted audience-powered and data-driven technology platform that simplifies buying and selling cars. The flagship Cars.com marketplace connects millions of consumers to dealerships across the U.S., powering the car buying experience with artificial intelligence ("AI") shopping tools and comprehensive vehicle reviews and content. Our interconnected ecosystem of products enables dealers and OEMs to sell more cars by efficiently leveraging our marketplace, dealer websites, trade and appraisal tools, and proprietary in-market media solutions. Learn more at www.carscommerce.inc.

 

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

 

This earnings release discusses Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, Adjusted net (loss) income, Free Cash Flow and Adjusted Operating Expenses. These financial measures are not prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"). These financial measures are presented as supplemental measures of operating performance because the Company believes they provide meaningful information regarding the Company’s performance and provide a basis to compare operating results between periods. In addition, the Company uses Adjusted EBITDA as a measure for determining incentive compensation targets. Adjusted EBITDA also is used as a performance measure under the Company’s credit agreement and includes adjustments such as the items defined below and other further adjustments, which are defined in the credit agreement. These non-GAAP financial measures are frequently used by the Company’s lenders, securities analysts, investors and other interested parties to evaluate companies in the Company’s industry.

 

While a reconciliation of non-GAAP measures to corresponding GAAP measures is not available on a forward-looking basis without unreasonable effort due to, as applicable, the timing, amount, valuation and number of future employee equity awards and the uncertainty relating to the timing, frequency, and effect of acquisitions and the significance of the resulting transaction-related expenses, the Company has


Page 4

provided a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable financial measure prepared in accordance with GAAP in this earnings release, see "Non-GAAP Reconciliations" below.

 

Other companies may define or calculate these measures differently, limiting their usefulness as comparative measures. Because of these limitations, non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for performance measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Definitions of these non-GAAP financial measures and reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are presented in the tables below.

 

The Company defines Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) before (1) interest expense, net, (2) income tax (benefit) expense, (3) depreciation, (4) amortization of intangible assets, (5) stock-based compensation expense, (6) unrealized mark-to-market adjustments and cash transactions related to derivative instruments, (7) unrealized foreign currency exchange gains and losses, and (8) certain other items, such as transaction-related items, severance, transformation and other exit costs and write-off and impairments of goodwill, intangible assets and other long-lived assets.

 

Transaction-related items result from actual or potential transactions such as business combinations, mergers, acquisitions, dispositions, spin-offs, financing transactions, and other strategic transactions, including, without limitation, (1) transaction-related bonuses and (2) expenses for advisors and representatives such as investment bankers, consultants, attorneys and accounting firms. Transaction-related items may also include, without limitation, transition and integration costs such as retention bonuses and acquisition-related milestone payments to acquired employees, consulting, compensation and other incremental costs associated with integration projects, fair value changes to contingent considerations and amortization of deferred revenue related to the AccuTrade acquisition.

 

The Company defines Adjusted Net Income as GAAP net (loss) income excluding, net of their related tax effects: (1) amortization of intangible assets, (2) stock-based compensation expense, (3) unrealized mark-to-market adjustments and cash transactions related to derivative instruments, (4) unrealized foreign currency exchange gains and losses, and (5) certain other items, such as transaction-related costs, severance, transformation and other exit costs and write-off and impairments of goodwill, intangible assets and other long-lived assets.

 

The Company defines Free Cash Flow as net cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures, including purchases of property and equipment and capitalization of internally developed technology.

 

The Company defines Adjusted Operating Expenses as total operating expenses adjusted to exclude stock-based compensation, write-off and impairments of goodwill, intangible assets, long-lived assets, severance, transformation and other exit costs and transaction-related items.

 

Key Metric Definitions

 

Average Monthly Unique Visitors (“UVs”) and Traffic (“Visits”). The Company defines UVs in a given month as the number of distinct visitors that engage with its platform during that month. Visitors are identified upon first visit to an individual Cars.com property on an individual device/browser combination or installation of one of its mobile apps on an individual device. If a visitor accesses more than one of its web properties or apps or uses more than one device or browser, each of those unique property/browser/app/device combinations counts toward the number of UVs. Traffic is defined as the number of visits to Cars.com desktop and mobile properties (responsive sites and mobile apps). The Company measures UVs and Traffic via RudderStack. These metrics do not include traffic to Dealer Inspire, D2C Media, or DealerClub websites.

 

Monthly Average Revenue Per Dealer ("ARPD"). The Company believes that its ability to grow ARPD is an indicator of the value proposition of its platform. The Company defines ARPD as Dealer revenue, excluding digital advertising services and DealerClub, during the period divided by the monthly average number of Dealer Customers during the same period.


Page 5

 

Dealer Customers. Dealer Customers represent dealerships using the Company’s products as of the end of each reporting period. Each physical or virtual dealership location is counted separately, whether it is a single-location proprietorship or part of a large, consolidated dealer group. Multi-franchise dealerships at a single location are counted as one dealer. Dealer Customer metrics do not include DealerClub.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. These statements often use words such as “believe,” “expect,” “project,” “anticipate,” “outlook,” “intend,” “strategy,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “seek,” “will,” “may,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “forecasts,” “mission,” “strive,” “more,” “goal” or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations, beliefs, strategies, estimates, projections and assumptions, experience in the industry as well as our perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments, and other factors we think are appropriate. Such forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Cars Commerce and its management based on their knowledge and understanding of the business and industry, are inherently uncertain. While Cars Commerce and its management make such statements in good faith and believe such judgments are reasonable, you should understand that these statements are not guarantees of future strategic action, performance or results. Our actual results, performance, achievements, strategic actions or prospects could differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Given these uncertainties, you should not rely on forward-looking statements in making investment decisions. When we make comparisons of results between current and prior periods, we do not intend to express any future trends, or indications of future performance, unless expressed as such, and you should view such comparisons as historical data. Whether or not any such forward-looking statement is in fact achieved will depend on future events, some of which are beyond our control.

 

Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other important factors, many of which are beyond our control, that could cause our actual results and strategic actions to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. For a detailed discussion of many of these and other risks and uncertainties, see “Part I, Item 1A., Risk Factors” and “Part II, Item 7., Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on February 26, 2026 and our other filings filed with the SEC and available on our website at investor.cars.com or via EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

 

You should evaluate all forward-looking statements made in this press release in the context of these risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based only on information currently available to us and speak only as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation, other than as may be required by law, to update or revise any forward-looking or cautionary statements to reflect changes in assumptions, the occurrence of events, unanticipated or otherwise, or changes in future operating results over time or otherwise. The forward-looking statements in this report are intended to be subject to the safe harbor protection provided by the federal securities laws.

 

Cars Commerce Investor Relations Contact:

Katherine Chen

kchen@carscommerce.inc

 

Cars Commerce Media Contact:

Christine Spinelli

pr@cars.com

###


Page 6

Cars.com Inc.

 

Consolidated Statements of Income

 

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30,

 

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

2026

 

 

2025

 

 

2026

 

 

2025

 

Revenue:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dealer

$

163,348

 

 

$

158,477

 

 

$

326,355

 

 

$

317,621

 

OEM and National

 

13,641

 

 

 

16,637

 

 

 

27,920

 

 

 

32,916

 

Other

 

2,945

 

 

 

3,625

 

 

 

5,882

 

 

 

7,226

 

Total revenue

 

179,934

 

 

 

178,739

 

 

 

360,157

 

 

 

357,763

 

Operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of revenue and operations

 

30,285

 

 

 

30,605

 

 

 

62,026

 

 

 

62,088

 

Product and technology

 

26,687

 

 

 

29,417

 

 

 

58,182

 

 

 

60,035

 

Marketing and sales

 

60,737

 

 

 

58,067

 

 

 

122,555

 

 

 

120,607

 

General and administrative

 

17,006

 

 

 

20,531

 

 

 

38,824

 

 

 

41,416

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

17,343

 

 

 

24,873

 

 

 

34,061

 

 

 

51,912

 

Total operating expenses

 

152,058

 

 

 

163,493

 

 

 

315,648

 

 

 

336,058

 

Operating income

 

27,876

 

 

 

15,246

 

 

 

44,509

 

 

 

21,705

 

Nonoperating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net

 

(7,397

)

 

 

(7,644

)

 

 

(14,628

)

 

 

(15,312

)

Other (expense) income, net

 

(953

)

 

 

2,366

 

 

 

(1,639

)

 

 

2,342

 

Total nonoperating expense, net

 

(8,350

)

 

 

(5,278

)

 

 

(16,267

)

 

 

(12,970

)

Income before income taxes

 

19,526

 

 

 

9,968

 

 

 

28,242

 

 

 

8,735

 

Income tax expense

 

5,263

 

 

 

2,959

 

 

 

9,001

 

 

 

3,739

 

Net income

$

14,263

 

 

$

7,009

 

 

$

19,241

 

 

$

4,996

 

Weighted-average common shares outstanding:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

55,871

 

 

 

63,163

 

 

 

57,453

 

 

 

63,859

 

Diluted

 

56,652

 

 

 

63,842

 

 

 

58,130

 

 

 

64,476

 

Net income (loss) per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

$

0.26

 

 

$

0.11

 

 

$

0.33

 

 

$

0.08

 

Diluted

 

0.25

 

 

 

0.11

 

 

 

0.33

 

 

 

0.08

 

 


Page 7

Cars.com Inc.

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30, 2026

 

 

December 31, 2025

 

 

(unaudited)

 

 

 

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

$

33,287

 

 

$

56,236

 

Accounts receivable, net

 

143,132

 

 

 

131,945

 

Prepaid expenses

 

12,881

 

 

 

15,491

 

Other current assets

 

5,668

 

 

 

7,920

 

Total current assets

 

194,968

 

 

 

211,592

 

Property and equipment, net

 

34,151

 

 

 

35,223

 

Goodwill

 

165,794

 

 

 

167,207

 

Intangible assets, net

 

505,049

 

 

 

527,082

 

Deferred tax assets, net

 

81,183

 

 

 

88,594

 

Investments and other assets, net

 

31,293

 

 

 

32,720

 

Total assets

$

1,012,438

 

 

$

1,062,418

 

Liabilities and stockholders' equity:

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

$

33,048

 

 

$

27,749

 

Accrued compensation

 

15,238

 

 

 

38,074

 

Other accrued liabilities

 

49,352

 

 

 

47,564

 

Total current liabilities

 

97,638

 

 

 

113,387

 

Noncurrent liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt, net

 

447,125

 

 

 

451,516

 

Deferred tax liabilities, net

 

5,866

 

 

 

6,241

 

Other noncurrent liabilities

 

18,204

 

 

 

18,744

 

Total noncurrent liabilities

 

471,195

 

 

 

476,501

 

Total liabilities

 

568,833

 

 

 

589,888

 

Commitments and contingencies

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders' equity:

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred Stock at par, $0.01 par value; 5,000 shares authorized; no shares
   issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2026 and December 31, 2025,
   respectively

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock at par, $0.01 par value; 300,000 shares authorized; 53,926
   and 58,636 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2026 and
   December 31, 2025, respectively

 

539

 

 

 

586

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

1,367,045

 

 

 

1,413,994

 

Accumulated deficit

 

(922,253

)

 

 

(941,494

)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(1,726

)

 

 

(556

)

Total stockholders' equity

 

443,605

 

 

 

472,530

 

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

$

1,012,438

 

 

$

1,062,418

 

 


Page 8

Cars.com Inc.

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

(In thousands)

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

2026

 

 

2025

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

$

19,241

 

 

$

4,996

 

Adjustments to reconcile Net income to Net cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

12,985

 

 

 

17,076

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

21,076

 

 

 

34,836

 

Stock-based compensation

 

14,478

 

 

 

15,013

 

Deferred income taxes

 

7,250

 

 

 

1,158

 

Provision for doubtful accounts

 

1,356

 

 

 

957

 

Amortization of debt issuance costs

 

950

 

 

 

950

 

Unrealized loss (gain) on foreign currency denominated transactions

 

1,543

 

 

 

(2,474

)

Other, net

 

819

 

 

 

1,439

 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable

 

(12,968

)

 

 

795

 

Prepaid expenses and other assets

 

5,498

 

 

 

1,193

 

Accounts payable

 

5,380

 

 

 

(2,475

)

Accrued compensation

 

(23,630

)

 

 

(14,570

)

Other liabilities

 

1,642

 

 

 

(3,211

)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

55,620

 

 

 

55,683

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

     Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired

 

 

 

 

(24,769

)

     Capitalization of internally developed technology

 

(11,314

)

 

 

(10,494

)

     Purchase of property and equipment

 

(809

)

 

 

(3,342

)

     Proceeds from sale of equity investment

 

 

 

 

9,481

 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(12,123

)

 

 

(29,124

)

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

     Proceeds from Revolving Loan borrowings

 

 

 

 

10,000

 

     Payments of Revolving Loan borrowings and long-term debt

 

(5,000

)

 

 

(10,000

)

     Payments for stock-based compensation plans, net

 

(3,791

)

 

 

(4,699

)

     Repurchases of common stock

 

(57,466

)

 

 

(44,644

)

Net cash used in financing activities

 

(66,257

)

 

 

(49,343

)

Effect of exchange rate changes on Cash and cash equivalents

 

(189

)

 

 

(185

)

Net increase (decrease) in Cash and cash equivalents

 

(22,949

)

 

 

(22,969

)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

 

56,236

 

 

 

50,673

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$

33,287

 

 

$

27,704

 

Supplemental cash flow information:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash (received) paid for income taxes

$

(1,927

)

 

$

2,088

 

Cash paid for interest

 

14,721

 

 

 

15,067

 

 


Page 9

Cars.com Inc.

 

Non-GAAP Reconciliations

 

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconciliation of Net income to Adjusted EBITDA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30,

 

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

2026

 

 

2025

 

 

2026

 

 

2025

 

Net income

$

14,263

 

 

$

7,009

 

 

$

19,241

 

 

$

4,996

 

Interest expense, net

 

7,397

 

 

 

7,644

 

 

 

14,628

 

 

 

15,312

 

Income tax expense

 

5,263

 

 

 

2,959

 

 

 

9,001

 

 

 

3,739

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

17,343

 

 

 

24,873

 

 

 

34,061

 

 

 

51,912

 

Stock-based compensation, including related payroll tax expense

 

5,934

 

 

 

6,758

 

 

 

14,749

 

 

 

15,461

 

Transaction-related and other one-time items

 

1,828

 

 

 

4,022

 

 

 

10,682

 

 

 

12,541

 

Non-operating foreign exchange loss

 

953

 

 

 

(2,367

)

 

 

1,639

 

 

 

(2,342

)

Adjusted EBITDA

$

52,981

 

 

$

50,898

 

 

$

104,001

 

 

$

101,619

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconciliation of Net income to Adjusted Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30,

 

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

2026

 

 

2025

 

 

2026

 

 

2025

 

Net income

$

14,263

 

 

$

7,009

 

 

$

19,241

 

 

$

4,996

 

Stock-based compensation, including related payroll tax expense

 

5,934

 

 

 

6,758

 

 

 

14,749

 

 

 

15,461

 

Amortization of intangible assets

 

10,533

 

 

 

17,458

 

 

 

21,076

 

 

 

34,836

 

Transaction-related items

 

-

 

 

 

2,736

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

5,666

 

Non-operating foreign exchange loss (income)

 

953

 

 

 

(2,367

)

 

 

1,639

 

 

 

(2,342

)

Other one-time items

 

1,828

 

 

 

1,286

 

 

 

10,676

 

 

 

6,875

 

Income tax impact of adjustments

 

(4,812

)

 

 

(6,468

)

 

 

(12,037

)

 

 

(15,124

)

Adjusted net income

$

28,699

 

 

$

26,412

 

 

$

55,350

 

 

$

50,368

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjusted net income per share, diluted

$

0.51

 

 

$

0.41

 

 

$

0.95

 

 

$

0.78

 

Weighted-average common shares outstanding, diluted

 

56,652

 

 

 

63,842

 

 

 

58,130

 

 

 

64,476

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconciliation of Net cash provided by operating activities to Free cash flow

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three Months Ended June 30,

 

 

Six Months Ended June 30,

 

 

2026

 

 

2025

 

 

2026

 

 

2025

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

$

15,812

 

 

$

26,228

 

 

$

55,620

 

 

$

55,683

 

Capitalization of internally developed technology

 

(5,314

)

 

 

(5,510

)

 

 

(11,314

)

 

 

(10,494

)

Purchase of property and equipment

 

(547

)

 

 

(2,531

)

 

 

(809

)

 

 

(3,342

)

Free cash flow

$

9,951

 

 

$

18,187

 

 

$

43,497

 

 

$

41,847

 

 

 

 


Page 10

Reconciliation of Operating expenses to Adjusted operating expenses for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2026:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As Reported

 

 

Adjustments (1)

 

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

 

As Adjusted

 

Cost of revenue and operations

$

30,285

 

 

$

102

 

 

$

(243

)

 

$

30,144

 

Product and technology

 

26,687

 

 

 

(919

)

 

 

(2,058

)

 

 

23,710

 

Marketing and sales

 

60,737

 

 

 

(712

)

 

 

(1,237

)

 

 

58,788

 

General and administrative

 

17,006

 

 

 

(299

)

 

 

(2,396

)

 

 

14,311

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

17,343

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

17,343

 

Total operating expenses

$

152,058

 

 

$

(1,828

)

 

$

(5,934

)

 

$

144,296

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total nonoperating expense, net

$

(8,350

)

 

$

953

 

 

$

 

 

$

(7,397

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1) Includes unrealized gains and losses on foreign currency denominated transactions, write-off of long-lived assets, severance and transformation and other exit costs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconciliation of Operating expenses to Adjusted operating expenses for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2025:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As Reported (1)

 

 

Adjustments (1)(2)

 

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

 

As Adjusted

 

Cost of revenue and operations

$

30,605

 

 

$

(58

)

 

$

(225

)

 

$

30,322

 

Product and technology

 

29,417

 

 

 

(783

)

 

 

(2,467

)

 

 

26,167

 

Marketing and sales

 

58,067

 

 

 

(353

)

 

 

(1,583

)

 

 

56,131

 

General and administrative

 

20,531

 

 

 

(2,827

)

 

 

(2,483

)

 

 

15,221

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

24,873

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

24,873

 

Total operating expenses

$

163,493

 

 

$

(4,021

)

 

$

(6,758

)

 

$

152,714

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total nonoperating expense, net

$

(5,278

)

 

$

(2,366

)

 

$

 

 

$

(7,644

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1) Certain prior year balances have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2) Includes transaction-related items, unrealized gains and losses on foreign currency denominated transactions, severance, write-off of long-lived assets and transformation and other exit costs.

 

 

 


Page 11

Reconciliation of Operating expenses to Adjusted operating expenses for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2026:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As Reported

 

 

Adjustments (1)

 

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

 

As Adjusted

 

Cost of revenue and operations

$

62,026

 

 

$

(829

)

 

$

(243

)

 

$

60,954

 

Product and technology

 

58,182

 

 

 

(4,270

)

 

 

(2,058

)

 

 

51,854

 

Marketing and sales

 

122,555

 

 

 

(2,852

)

 

 

(1,237

)

 

 

118,466

 

General and administrative

 

38,824

 

 

 

(2,731

)

 

 

(2,396

)

 

 

33,697

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

34,061

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

34,061

 

Total operating expenses

$

315,648

 

 

$

(10,682

)

 

$

(5,934

)

 

$

299,032

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total nonoperating expense, net

$

(16,267

)

 

$

1,639

 

 

$

 

 

$

(14,628

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1) Includes severance, unrealized gains and losses on foreign currency denominated transactions, write-off of long-lived assets and transformation and other exit costs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconciliation of Operating expenses to Adjusted operating expenses for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2025:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As Reported (1)

 

 

Adjustments (1)(2)

 

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

 

As Adjusted

 

Cost of revenue and operations

$

62,088

 

 

$

(602

)

 

$

(403

)

 

$

61,083

 

Product and technology

 

60,035

 

 

 

(2,922

)

 

 

(4,980

)

 

 

52,133

 

Marketing and sales

 

120,607

 

 

 

(2,709

)

 

 

(3,770

)

 

 

114,128

 

General and administrative

 

41,416

 

 

 

(6,307

)

 

 

(6,308

)

 

 

28,801

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

51,912

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

51,912

 

Total operating expenses

$

336,058

 

 

$

(12,540

)

 

$

(15,461

)

 

$

308,057

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total nonoperating income (expense), net

$

(12,970

)

 

$

(2,341

)

 

$

 

 

$

(15,311

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1) Certain prior year balances have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2) Includes transaction-related items, severance, unrealized gains and losses on foreign currency denominated transactions, write-off of long-lived assets and transformation and other exit costs.

 

 


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