What long-term EPS growth can investors expect from LYV?

**Live Nation Entertainment (LYV) demonstrates strong long-term earnings per share (EPS) growth potential**, supported by several key factors:

1. **Steady Increase in EPS**: LYV's EPS has shown a consistent upward trend, with the latest report period ending on December 31, 2024. This indicates a strong and stable earnings growth trajectory.

|code|Ticker|Name|Date|Diluted EPS YoY|Diluted EPS|market_code|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|LYV|LYV.N|Live Nation|2024 Q1|-112.00000000000001|-0.53|169|
|LYV|LYV.N|Live Nation|2024 Q2|0.980392156862746|1.03|169|
|LYV|LYV.N|Live Nation|2024 Q3|-13.989637305699484|1.66|169|

2. **Positive Market Performance**: LYV's stock has outperformed the Consumer Discretionary sector and the Film and Television Production and Distribution industry over the past year, reflecting investor confidence in the company's growth prospects. The stock's rise of 21.8% over the trailing 12 months is a testament to the market's positive sentiment.
3. **Strong Operational Performance**: Live Nation's revenue for the third quarter of 2024 was $7.65 billion, with a net income of $451.8 million, representing a 6.9% increase from the previous year. The profit margin also improved to 5.9% from 5.2% in the same period, driven by lower expenses. This operational efficiency is a positive indicator for future EPS growth.
4. **Strategic Growth Initiatives**: The company's focus on expanding its venue portfolio, with plans to add 20 venues by 2026, is expected to drive growth in ticket sales and sponsorship agreements. Live Nation's strategy to maximize ticket inventory and leverage partnerships with major brands is likely to contribute to further EPS growth in the long term.
5. **Analyst Confidence**: Analysts have revised their earnings estimates upward, with the consensus for 2025 pegged at $2.91 per share, indicating a 6.2% year-over-year growth. This suggests that analysts are optimistic about LYV's future earnings potential.

In conclusion, investors can expect Live Nation Entertainment to deliver steady and potentially robust EPS growth in the long term, supported by the company's financial performance, strategic initiatives, and positive market sentiment.