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Lyft (LYFT)
NASDAQ:LYFT

Lyft (LYFT) AI Stock Analysis

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LY

Lyft

(NASDAQ:LYFT)

Rating:70Outperform
Price Target:
$18.50
▲( 14.91% Upside)
Lyft's overall stock score reflects a company in transition with strong revenue growth, improved cash flow, and strategic initiatives that enhance its market position. However, high valuation metrics, ongoing profitability challenges, and mixed technical indicators temper the outlook. Positive earnings call sentiment and corporate events provide some optimism, but the stock's high P/E ratio and leverage issues suggest caution. Continued focus on operational efficiency and strategic growth will be crucial for long-term success.
Positive Factors
Growth Initiatives
Lyft is driving increasing growth through ongoing technology and driver-centric innovations, new service offerings, international expansion, and the upcoming autonomous service will be a significant growth catalyst.
Market Expansion
The acquisition of FREENOW is poised to double Lyft’s addressable market by expanding its presence to nine European countries.
Profitability Improvements
Lyft has made significant strides in profitability, posting a net profit of USD2.6mn in 1Q25, a marked improvement from the USD31.5mn loss in 1Q24, driven by increased ride volumes and cost control measures.
Negative Factors
Competitive Disadvantages
Lyft remains structurally disadvantaged compared to Uber due to its limited geographic presence and narrower service offering.
Market Skepticism
There is persistent market skepticism around Lyft’s long-term competitiveness, reflected by the stock trading at a forward EV/EBITDA of 7.8x, a 48% discount to Uber’s 15x.
Profitability Concerns
Lyft’s adjusted EBITDA margin of 2.6% remains significantly lower than Uber’s 15.4% margin, highlighting ongoing competitive pressure.

Lyft (LYFT) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

Lyft Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionLyft, Inc. operates a peer-to-peer marketplace for on-demand ridesharing in the United States and Canada. The company operates multimodal transportation networks that offer riders personalized and on-demand access to various mobility options. It provides Ridesharing Marketplace, which connects drivers with riders; Express Drive, a flexible car rentals program for drivers; Lyft Rentals that provides vehicles for long-distance trips; and a network of shared bikes and scooters in various cities to address the needs of riders for short trips. The company also integrates third-party public transit data into the Lyft app to offer riders various transportation options. In addition, it offers access to autonomous vehicles; centralized tools and enterprise transportation solutions, such as concierge transportation solutions for organizations; Lyft Pink subscription plans; Lyft Pass commuter programs; first-mile and last-mile services; and university safe rides programs. The company was formerly known as Zimride, Inc. and changed its name to Lyft, Inc. in April 2013. Lyft, Inc. was incorporated in 2007 and is headquartered in San Francisco, California.
How the Company Makes MoneyLyft generates revenue primarily through its ride-hailing services by taking a percentage of the fare paid by passengers for each ride booked through its platform. This commission-based model forms the core of Lyft's revenue stream. Additionally, Lyft offers subscription plans such as Lyft Pink, which provides riders with benefits like discounts on rides and priority airport pickups for a monthly fee. The company also earns money from renting electric scooters and bicycles in select cities, further complementing its urban transportation offerings. Partnerships with businesses and public transit agencies, as well as collaborations with autonomous vehicle technology companies, also contribute to its revenue by expanding service integration and future-proofing its business model. Lyft's focus on improving operational efficiency and expanding its service offerings plays a crucial role in driving its financial performance.

Lyft Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Any
Any
Active Riders
Active Riders
Monitors the number of users taking rides, indicating market penetration, user engagement, and overall demand for Lyft's services.
Chart InsightsLyft's active riders have shown a strong recovery post-pandemic, reaching record levels in 2024 and continuing into 2025. The company's strategic expansion into Europe and new demographics, along with innovative offerings like Lyft Silver and Price Lock, are driving this growth. Despite minor pricing challenges and the end of the Delta partnership, Lyft's robust financial performance and increased share repurchase program underscore its confidence in sustained growth and market positioning.
Data provided by:Main Street Data

Lyft Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Lyft has demonstrated significant revenue growth and improved cash flow efficiency. The income statement shows positive trends in revenue and cost management, with net profit turning positive. The balance sheet reflects stabilization but still faces leverage challenges. Cash flow has improved with positive free cash flow, indicating better cash management.
Income Statement
65
Positive
Lyft's revenue for 2024 showed significant growth, with a revenue increase from $4.40B in 2023 to $5.79B in 2024, marking a strong growth trajectory. The gross profit margin improved from 33.1% to 42.3%, indicating better cost management. However, despite revenue growth, the EBIT and EBITDA margins remain negative, reflecting ongoing operational challenges. Net profit turned positive at 0.39% due to better control of expenses, which is a positive indicator.
Balance Sheet
58
Neutral
The debt-to-equity ratio improved as equity increased to $767M, reducing leverage risk. The equity ratio improved slightly, showing a healthier asset base. However, the return on equity remains low at 2.97% due to historical losses, despite the recent net income. Overall, the balance sheet shows signs of stabilization with improved equity but still faces leverage challenges.
Cash Flow
70
Positive
Lyft's cash flow metrics improved significantly, with free cash flow turning positive to $766M from a negative position in 2023, indicating better cash management and operational efficiency. The operating cash flow to net income ratio is strong, suggesting effective conversion of earnings into cash. Overall, the cash flow statement reflects a robust turnaround with improved liquidity.
Breakdown
Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income StatementTotal Revenue
5.79B4.40B4.10B3.21B2.36B
Gross Profit
2.45B1.46B1.66B1.56B917.16M
EBIT
-118.91M-475.60M-1.46B-1.08B-1.81B
EBITDA
203.16M-188.97M-1.40B-841.84M-1.61B
Net Income Common Stockholders
22.78M-340.32M-1.58B-1.01B-1.75B
Balance SheetCash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments
1.98B1.69B1.80B2.25B2.25B
Total Assets
5.44B4.56B4.56B4.77B4.68B
Total Debt
1.17B1.13B1.03B919.17M959.33M
Net Debt
412.99M569.70M744.28M461.85M639.60M
Total Liabilities
4.67B4.02B4.17B3.38B3.00B
Stockholders Equity
767.02M541.52M388.67M1.39B1.68B
Cash FlowFree Cash Flow
766.27M-248.06M-352.25M-180.90M-1.47B
Operating Cash Flow
849.74M-98.24M-237.28M-101.72M-1.38B
Investing Cash Flow
-517.98M599.75M186.04M267.01M740.43M
Financing Cash Flow
-155.87M-122.08M-87.50M-72.47M512.57M

Lyft Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price16.10
Price Trends
50DMA
12.84
Positive
100DMA
13.06
Positive
200DMA
13.33
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
1.16
Negative
RSI
64.50
Neutral
STOCH
25.50
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For LYFT, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 16.1 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 14.80, above the 50-day MA of 12.84, and above the 200-day MA of 13.33, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 1.16 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 64.50 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 25.50 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for LYFT.

Lyft Risk Analysis

Lyft disclosed 68 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Lyft 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

Lyft Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (61)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
74
Outperform
$4.09B-1.66%15.72%74.59%
70
Outperform
$6.73B117.758.56%27.32%
69
Neutral
$4.54B482.280.97%14.52%
61
Neutral
$11.29B10.07-7.05%2.96%7.47%-10.75%
59
Neutral
$2.97B-0.82%1.45%-26.04%85.84%
KCKC
54
Neutral
$3.75B-32.59%8.56%13.34%
48
Neutral
$3.17B-14.96%19.05%78.91%
* Technology Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
LYFT
Lyft
16.10
0.46
2.94%
BILL
Bill.com Holdings
44.40
-7.76
-14.88%
KC
Kingsoft Cloud Holdings
13.06
10.20
356.64%
ALIT
Alight
5.39
-2.71
-33.46%
COMP
Compass
5.97
1.89
46.32%
PYCR
Paycor HCM
22.49
9.48
72.87%

Lyft Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:May 08, 2025
(Q1-2025)
|
% Change Since: 23.85%|
Next Earnings Date:Jul 30, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The earnings call presented a strong overall performance for Lyft in Q1 2025, highlighting record financial results, expansion efforts, and innovative products. Despite some challenges with pricing and the impact of ending the Delta partnership, the positive aspects significantly outweigh the negatives.
Q1-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Strongest Q1 Ever
Lyft reported its strongest first quarter ever with year-on-year growth across regions, modes, and use cases, resulting in a record Q1 for active riders, rides, and driver hours.
Financial Achievements
Q1 records were set in gross bookings, adjusted EBITDA, and free cash flow. Lyft delivered its 16th consecutive quarter of double-digit year-on-year growth.
Cash Generation and Share Repurchase
Lyft approached nearly $1 billion in cash generation over the last 12 months and increased its share repurchase program to $750 million.
International Expansion
Lyft expanded into Europe with the REENOW acquisition and reported great growth in Canada, with rides growing 55% in Q1.
Innovative Offerings
The introduction of Lyft Silver and Price Lock features were highlighted as innovations for expanding the customer base.
Negative Updates
Pricing Challenges
Average prices in Q1 were lower than in the fourth quarter, although they were modestly up year-over-year. Pricing strategy remains focused on being competitive and reliable.
Impact of Delta Partnership Ending
The ending of the Delta partnership on April 7 is expected to have a 1% impact on rides and a 2% impact on gross bookings over time.
Company Guidance
During the Lyft First Quarter 2025 earnings call, the company provided optimistic guidance and highlighted several key metrics demonstrating its robust performance. Lyft achieved its strongest Q1 ever, with record figures for active riders, rides, and driver hours. Financially, the company set new quarterly records in gross bookings, adjusted EBITDA, and free cash flow, marking the 16th consecutive quarter of double-digit year-on-year gross bookings growth. Lyft reported nearly $1 billion in cash generation over the past 12 months, enabling it to increase its share repurchase program to $750 million while maintaining investments in growth initiatives. The company's expansion into new demographics through Lyft Silver and into Europe with the acquisition of FREENOW positions it for sustained growth. Additionally, the Price Lock membership program saw substantial growth, with a 21% increase compared to Q4 and retention rates exceeding 70%, indicating strong product-market fit.

Lyft Corporate Events

Stock BuybackBusiness Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Lyft Expands Share Repurchase Program by $250 Million
Positive
May 8, 2025

On May 8, 2025, Lyft announced a significant increase in its share repurchase program, authorizing an additional $250 million, bringing the total to $750 million. This move follows the company’s strong financial performance in Q1 2025, marked by record gross bookings and active rider growth, as well as nearly $1 billion in cash flow generation over the past year. Lyft’s strategic initiatives, including expansion into new demographics and regions, underscore its commitment to sustained growth and market leadership.

M&A TransactionsBusiness Operations and Strategy
Lyft Announces Acquisition of FREENOW for €175 Million
Positive
Apr 16, 2025

On April 16, 2025, Lyft announced its acquisition of FREENOW, a European multi-mobility app, for €175 million. This strategic move marks Lyft’s first major expansion outside North America, significantly increasing its market reach and diversifying its revenue streams. The acquisition is expected to close in the second half of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals. By integrating FREENOW’s European taxi expertise with Lyft’s marketplace capabilities, the combined entity aims to enhance service levels and expand opportunities for drivers and riders across Europe and North America.

Executive/Board Changes
Lyft Announces Departure of Chief Accounting Officer
Neutral
Mar 3, 2025

On March 3, 2025, Lyft announced the departure of its Chief Accounting Officer, Lisa Blackwood-Kapral, effective March 6, 2025. Her departure is not due to any disputes or disagreements with the company or its management. Erin Brewer, the current Chief Financial Officer, will assume the role of interim Chief Accounting Officer while continuing her duties as CFO, ensuring continuity in the company’s financial leadership.

Glossary
OutperformA stock rated as "Outperform" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider this stock a good buying opportunity.
NeutralA stock rated as "Neutral" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly attractive nor unattractive for investment. Investors may consider holding onto the stock, as it is not expected to either significantly outperform or underperform the market.
UnderperformA stock rated as "Underperform" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock may deliver lower returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider selling the stock or avoiding it as an investment.

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.