Marriott Shares Rise 0.22% Despite 26.16% Volume Drop to $280M Ranking 369th as Institutional Reshuffling and $25M Buyback Signal Market Strategy Shifts

On September 3, 2025, Marriott International (NASDAQ:MAR) closed with a 0.22% gain, despite a 26.16% decline in trading volume to $0.28 billion, ranking 369th in market activity. Institutional investors reshaped their positions, with First Manhattan CO. LLC reducing its stake by 0.2% to 549,089 shares valued at $130.8 million. Meanwhile, several hedge funds increased holdings, including Quarry LP and Orbis Allan Gray Ltd, which boosted positions by 426% and 4.6%, respectively. Insider Rajeev Menon sold 2,500 shares, marking a 30.47% reduction in his holdings, while institutional ownership remains at 70.70% of the stock.

The company announced a $25 million stock buyback program, signaling board confidence in undervalued shares. This follows a quarterly earnings report showing $2.65 per share, aligning with estimates, and revenue of $6.74 billion, up 4.7% year-over-year. A $0.67 quarterly dividend was declared, maintaining a 1.0% yield, with a payout ratio of 30.21%. Analysts remain divided, with Jefferies upgrading to "Buy" and Truist lowering its price target to $273, reflecting cautious optimism amid mixed guidance for FY 2025.

Backtest results indicate the stock buyback authorization and dividend announcement align with historical patterns of corporate confidence. Institutional sales and insider transactions highlight ongoing strategic reallocations, while earnings performance supports the company’s market position. The buyback program’s impact on share price remains subject to broader market conditions and execution timing.