tiprankstipranks
Trending News
More News >
Imax Corp. (IMAX)
NYSE:IMAX
Advertisement

IMAX (IMAX) AI Stock Analysis

Compare
603 Followers

Top Page

IMAX

IMAX

(NYSE:IMAX)

Rating:71Outperform
Price Target:
$29.00
▲(0.14% Upside)
IMAX's overall stock score is driven by strong financial performance and positive earnings call sentiment, highlighting robust growth and strategic initiatives. However, technical analysis and valuation present challenges, with mixed market signals and a high P/E ratio indicating potential overvaluation.
Positive Factors
Brand and Market Position
The IMAX brand and value proposition are clearly resonating with consumers, driving sustained market share gains and reinforcing IMAX as the premium platform for blockbuster and local-language cinema alike.
Earnings
IMAX is on track to deliver another outperformance with global box office already above expectations and on a path to exceed consensus view for the quarter.
Future Growth
The company modified its expectations for installations for 2025, raising the low end of the range by 5 screens, which is a positive sign for growth.
Negative Factors
Free Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow was lower than expected, driven by lower CFFO but partially offset by lower JRSA system install capital intensity.
Stock Valuation
Shares remain overvalued relative to peers given the company’s exposure to the secular supply and demand side risks impacting the broader theatrical ecosystem.

IMAX (IMAX) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

IMAX Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionIMAX Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an entertainment technology company worldwide. It offers cinematic solution through proprietary software, theater architecture, intellectual property, and specialized equipment. The company offers IMAX Digital Re-Mastering (DMR), a proprietary technology that digitally enhances the image resolution, visual clarity, and sound quality of motion picture films for projection on IMAX screens; IMAX theater systems to exhibitor customers through sales, leases, and joint revenue sharing arrangements; and digital projection systems. It also provides preventative and emergency maintenance services to IMAX network; distributes large-format documentary films; film post-production and quality control services for large-format films, and digital post-production services; owns and operates IMAX theaters; and rents 2D and 3D large-format film and digital cameras, as well as offers production advice and technical assistance services to documentary and Hollywood filmmakers. The company markets its theater systems through a direct sales force and marketing staff to science and natural history museums, zoos, aquaria, and other educational and cultural centers, as well as theme parks, private home theaters, tourist destination sites, fairs, and expositions. It owns or otherwise has rights to trademarks and trade names, which include IMAX, IMAX Dome, IMAX 3D, IMAX 3D Dome, Experience It in IMAX, The IMAX Experience, An IMAX Experience, An IMAX 3D Experience, IMAX DMR, DMR, IMAX Enhanced, IMAX nXos, and Films To The Fullest. As of December 31, 2021, the company had a network of 1,683 IMAX theater systems comprising 1,599 commercial multiplexes, 12 commercial destinations, and 72 institutional facilities operating in 87 countries and territories. IMAX Corporation was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Mississauga, Canada.
How the Company Makes MoneyIMAX generates revenue through several key streams. Primarily, the company earns money from the licensing of its proprietary technology and theater systems to cinema operators, which includes both initial setup fees and ongoing royalty payments based on box office sales. Additionally, IMAX receives revenue from film distribution agreements, where it partners with filmmakers to convert and distribute films in the IMAX format, often sharing in the box office earnings. The company also benefits from a growing number of strategic partnerships with major film studios, enhancing its content library and driving audience attendance. Furthermore, IMAX's expanding presence in international markets and its ventures into at-home cinema solutions contribute to its revenue diversification and growth potential.

IMAX Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Jul 24, 2025
(Q2-2025)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:Oct 30, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The earnings call reflects a highly positive outlook for IMAX, with record-breaking box office performance, strong installation growth, high adjusted EBITDA margins, and strategic partnerships with major tech and film companies. Despite some competitive threats and tensions with domestic exhibitors, the overall sentiment remains highly positive as IMAX continues to expand its global market presence and deepen relationships with partners.
Q2-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Record-Breaking Box Office Performance
Q2 was IMAX's highest grossing quarter ever at the domestic box office, with a 41% year-over-year increase in global box office revenue. The company remains on track to achieve its guidance of $1.2 billion for the full year.
Strong Installation Growth
IMAX reported a 50% growth in installations with 36 systems installed in Q2. The full-year forecast for installations has been increased to between 150 and 160 systems worldwide.
High Adjusted EBITDA Margin
The adjusted EBITDA margin exceeded 42% for the second straight quarter, showcasing strong financial performance.
Expansion and System Signings
The company completed agreements for 124 new and upgraded IMAX systems year-to-date, close to equaling the 130 systems signed in all of 2024.
Strong Global Market Presence
IMAX achieved a global market share of 3.6% on less than 1% of screens, including a 5.3% share of the domestic box office and 6% share of China's box office.
Successful Film Releases
IMAX averaged about 15% of the North American box office on opening weekend for films shot with IMAX cameras, with some films reaching as high as 20% market share.
Strategic Partnerships
IMAX deepened relationships with tech companies like Apple and Amazon and announced several upcoming releases with major studios.
Negative Updates
Challenges in Non-IMAX PLF Screens
U.S. theater chains are reportedly discussing joint marketing of their premium large format (PLF) screens to better compete with IMAX, indicating a competitive threat.
Tensions with Domestic Exhibitors
There are reports of tension between IMAX and some domestic exhibitors, particularly around studios marketing towards IMAX performance.
Company Guidance
During the Q2 2025 IMAX Corporation earnings call, the company reported strong financial performance with significant growth across various metrics. IMAX achieved a 50% increase in installations and a 41% rise in global box office revenue, contributing to an adjusted EBITDA margin exceeding 42% for the second straight quarter. The company opened 57 new and upgraded locations year-to-date, up from 39 in the same period in 2024, and raised its full-year installation guidance to 150-160 systems worldwide. IMAX's domestic box office performance reached an all-time high, supporting its full-year guidance of $1.2 billion. The company also experienced a 19% year-over-year increase in its global market share in the second quarter, capturing 3.6% of the total box office with less than 1% of screens. Moreover, IMAX's backlog of 131 systems is up 46% year-over-year, with 28 new signings in Q2 and 124 year-to-date, nearing the 130 systems signed in 2024. Additionally, IMAX maintained a strong capital position, with cash flow from operations exceeding $30 million in the first half, reflecting a 25% increase from the prior year. The company expanded its revolving credit facility from $300 million to $375 million, further strengthening its financial growth model.

IMAX Financial Statement Overview

Summary
IMAX shows a strong financial position with solid revenue growth and improving cash flow management. The company effectively manages its costs, reflected in a stable gross profit margin. While profitability metrics indicate potential for improvement, the balance sheet remains stable with a manageable level of debt.
Income Statement
75
Positive
IMAX has shown solid revenue growth over the years, with a notable recovery post-2020. The gross profit margin is strong, reflecting efficient cost management. However, profitability metrics like the EBIT and net profit margins have room for improvement, as they have fluctuated over the analyzed periods.
Balance Sheet
70
Positive
The balance sheet reflects a stable equity position with a moderate debt-to-equity ratio. However, the company has seen a slight decrease in stockholders' equity over time. The return on equity has improved, suggesting better utilization of equity, though further strengthening could be beneficial.
Cash Flow
80
Positive
IMAX has demonstrated strong cash flow management, with positive operating cash flow trends and improving free cash flow. The free cash flow growth rate signals effective capital expenditure management, supporting long-term sustainability.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue362.48M352.21M374.84M300.81M254.88M137.00M
Gross Profit206.16M190.20M214.34M156.35M134.41M21.54M
EBITDA109.39M111.28M112.96M52.77M74.16M-69.41M
Net Income32.78M26.06M25.34M-22.80M-22.33M-143.78M
Balance Sheet
Total Assets868.58M830.40M814.67M821.15M883.25M997.75M
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments109.25M100.59M76.20M97.40M189.71M317.38M
Total Debt278.02M266.26M252.06M263.02M226.11M305.68M
Total Liabilities463.51M452.18M469.08M491.39M452.88M532.98M
Stockholders Equity320.41M299.47M273.14M263.36M356.08M394.00M
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow47.36M29.62M25.78M-15.30M-11.71M-32.27M
Operating Cash Flow76.95M70.84M58.62M17.32M6.07M-23.01M
Investing Cash Flow-47.63M-41.22M-31.79M-53.29M-7.00K-9.26M
Financing Cash Flow-12.17M-6.04M-48.53M-58.51M-132.72M240.57M

IMAX Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price28.96
Price Trends
50DMA
26.91
Positive
100DMA
26.23
Positive
200DMA
25.66
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
0.26
Negative
RSI
71.18
Negative
STOCH
91.14
Negative
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For IMAX, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 28.96 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 25.89, above the 50-day MA of 26.91, and above the 200-day MA of 25.66, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 0.26 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 71.18 is Negative, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 91.14 is Negative, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for IMAX.

IMAX Risk Analysis

IMAX disclosed 30 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. IMAX reported the most risks in the "Finance & Corporate" category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

IMAX Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (60)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
71
Outperform
$1.49B46.2111.16%1.25%55.54%
61
Neutral
$2.98B14.3670.99%0.93%13.80%109.00%
60
Neutral
$43.56B4.52-12.81%4.07%1.87%-43.08%
51
Neutral
$1.47B20.03%9.42%39.83%
50
Neutral
$1.89B52.751222.83%-1.72%-75.17%
47
Neutral
-2.85%75.96%
42
Neutral
-2.85%75.96%
* Communication Services Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
IMAX
IMAX
28.96
8.25
39.84%
CNK
Cinemark Holdings
25.93
-1.53
-5.57%
AMC
AMC Entertainment
2.84
-1.90
-40.08%
LGF.A
Lions Gate Entertainment Class A
8.59
0.82
10.55%
LGF.B
Lions Gate Entertainment Class B
7.69
0.77
11.13%
MSGE
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.
39.41
-2.51
-5.99%

IMAX Corporate Events

Executive/Board Changes
IMAX Extends CEO Richard Gelfond’s Term to 2028
Neutral
Jul 17, 2025

On July 17, 2025, IMAX Corporation announced an amendment to the employment agreement of its CEO, Richard L. Gelfond, extending his term until December 31, 2028. The amendment outlines his compensation, including a base salary of $1.2 million, potential bonuses, and equity awards contingent on performance metrics. The agreement also details conditions for severance and equity vesting, ensuring continuity in leadership and aligning executive incentives with company performance goals.

Private Placements and Financing
IMAX Expands Credit Agreement with Wells Fargo
Positive
Jul 15, 2025

On July 14, 2025, IMAX Corporation entered into a Seventh Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Wells Fargo Bank and other lenders, increasing its revolving borrowing capacity to $375 million, with potential expansion to $515 million or more. The agreement, which matures in 2030, includes various financial covenants and is secured by the company’s assets. The proceeds are intended for working capital and general corporate purposes, with $52 million used to repay previous credit facility balances.

Shareholder MeetingsStock BuybackBusiness Operations and Strategy
IMAX Expands Share Repurchase Program by $100 Million
Positive
Jun 13, 2025

On June 11, 2025, IMAX Corporation held its Annual General Meeting where shareholders elected directors, approved PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as auditors, and endorsed executive compensation. On June 12, 2025, IMAX announced a $100 million increase to its share repurchase program, extending it through June 30, 2027, bringing the total authorization to $500 million. This move reflects IMAX’s strategic focus on enhancing shareholder value and maintaining a strong market position.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Aug 22, 2025