Ziff Davis, Inc. (ZD)
For informational purposes only. Not financial advice. Analysis by Sedat ANAK, Founder & Editor-in-Chief | AI-powered analysis. Data sourced from SEC filings and institutional-grade financial providers. Editorially reviewed. Not financial advice.
Ziff Davis, Inc. (ZD) trades at $53.23 with AI Score 92/100 (Grade A+). Ziff Davis, Inc. operates in the digital media, cybersecurity, and martech sectors, providing internet information and services. Market cap: $1.96B, Sector: Communication services.
Price live · AI analysis from May 10, 2026ZD stock analysis for 2026: Analysts have set a consensus price target of $56.33 for Ziff Davis, Inc., suggesting 5.8% upside from the current price of $53.23. The AI MoonshotScore is 92/100, indicating a strong bullish outlook. Key factors: analyst coverage, AI-driven quantitative scoring.
ZD: 6/7 perspectives are bullish. Dominant signal: Seth Klarman bullish.
How is this calculated? →Ziff Davis, Inc. (ZD) Media & Communications Profile
Ziff Davis, Inc. delivers internet information and services through its Digital Media and Cybersecurity & Martech segments. The company's diverse portfolio of web properties and cloud-based subscription services positions it uniquely within the advertising agencies industry, serving both consumer and business markets across technology, shopping, entertainment, and health.
What Is the Investment Thesis for ZD?
Ziff Davis, Inc. presents a mixed investment thesis. The company's diverse digital media portfolio and expansion into cybersecurity and martech offer growth opportunities, evidenced by a gross margin of 73.8%. However, a relatively high P/E ratio of 44.8, compared to the industry average, suggests a premium valuation. The company's ability to leverage its established brands like IGN and RetailMeNot, along with its cloud-based subscription services, could drive future revenue growth. Investors should monitor the company's ability to maintain profitability, given its current profit margin of 3.3%, and navigate the competitive landscape in the digital media and cybersecurity sectors. Key catalysts include successful integration of acquired businesses and expansion of its subscription-based services.
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
ZD Key Highlights
- Market capitalization of $1.96B reflects its position in the digital media and cybersecurity sectors.
- Gross Margin of 73.8% indicates strong pricing power and efficient cost management.
- Profit Margin of 3.3% suggests potential for improvement through operational efficiencies and revenue diversification.
- P/E ratio of 44.8 indicates a premium valuation compared to industry peers.
- Beta of 1.07 suggests the stock's volatility is similar to the overall market.
Who Are ZD's Competitors?
ZD is benchmarked below against 8 industry peers on price, market cap, and our AI MoonshotScore.
| Company | Price | Change | Market Cap | AI Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GOOG Alphabet Inc. | $365.24 | +2.54% | $4.46T | 98 |
| META Meta Platforms, Inc. | $600.05 | +2.94% | $1.52T | 94 |
| IAC IAC/InterActiveCorp | $47.02 | +0.57% | $3.50B | 52 |
| IFUS Impact Fusion International, Inc. | $0.03 | +2.42% | $19.37M | 63 |
| MOBQ Mobiquity Technologies, Inc. | $0.65 | -11.69% | $18.06M | 63 |
| ACHN Achison Inc. | $0.79 | -21.66% | $23.73M | 61 |
| BOMN Boston Omaha Corporation | $25.76 | +0.00% | $765.03M | 59 |
| AATV Adaptive Ad Systems, Inc. | $0.11 | +0.00% | $5.28M | 58 |
AI Score by Stock Expert AI · Price data: FMP / Yahoo Finance
What Are ZD's Key Strengths?
- Diverse portfolio of web properties and apps.
- Strong brand recognition and reputation.
- Cloud-based subscription services for cybersecurity and martech.
- Experienced management team.
What Are ZD's Weaknesses?
- Reliance on advertising revenue.
- Relatively low profit margin.
- Intense competition in the digital media and cybersecurity sectors.
- Potential vulnerability to cybersecurity threats.
What Could Drive ZD Stock Higher?
- Expansion of cloud-based subscription services in cybersecurity and martech.
- Continued growth in digital advertising revenue through its web properties.
- Potential acquisitions of complementary businesses in the digital media and technology sectors.
- Strategic partnerships to expand its reach and product offerings.
What Are the Key Risks for ZD?
- Rich valuation — a P/E of 44.8 runs well above the Communication Services sector’s ~18x, leaving little room for a miss.
- Economic downturn impacting advertising spending.
- Intense competition in the digital media and cybersecurity sectors.
- Changing consumer preferences and technological advancements.
- Regulatory changes affecting data privacy and cybersecurity.
What Are the Growth Opportunities for ZD?
- Expansion of Cybersecurity and Martech Services: Ziff Davis can capitalize on the growing demand for cybersecurity and marketing technology solutions. The global cybersecurity market is projected to reach $345.4 billion by 2026, offering a significant growth opportunity for the company's cloud-based subscription services. By focusing on product innovation and strategic partnerships, Ziff Davis can expand its market share and drive revenue growth in this segment.
- Leveraging Digital Media Portfolio: Ziff Davis's diverse portfolio of web properties, including IGN, RetailMeNot, and PCMag, provides a strong foundation for growth. By enhancing user engagement, optimizing content delivery, and expanding into new content verticals, the company can attract a larger audience and increase advertising revenue. The digital advertising market is expected to continue its growth trajectory, presenting ample opportunities for Ziff Davis to capitalize on its established brands.
- Strategic Acquisitions and Partnerships: Ziff Davis can pursue strategic acquisitions and partnerships to expand its product offerings, geographic reach, and market share. By acquiring complementary businesses in the digital media, cybersecurity, and martech sectors, the company can accelerate its growth and enhance its competitive position. Successful integration of acquired businesses will be crucial for realizing synergies and maximizing returns.
- Enhancing Data Analytics Capabilities: Ziff Davis can invest in data analytics capabilities to gain deeper insights into user behavior, optimize advertising campaigns, and personalize content delivery. By leveraging data analytics, the company can improve its targeting accuracy, increase advertising effectiveness, and enhance user engagement. This will enable Ziff Davis to attract more advertisers and drive revenue growth.
- International Expansion: Ziff Davis can expand its presence in international markets to tap into new growth opportunities. By adapting its products and services to local market conditions and establishing strategic partnerships with local players, the company can penetrate new markets and increase its global reach. The international digital media and cybersecurity markets offer significant growth potential for Ziff Davis.
What Opportunities Does ZD Have?
- Expansion of cybersecurity and martech services.
- Strategic acquisitions and partnerships.
- International expansion.
- Enhancement of data analytics capabilities.
What Threats Does ZD Face?
- Changing consumer preferences and technological advancements.
- Increased competition from larger players.
- Economic downturn impacting advertising spending.
- Regulatory changes affecting data privacy and cybersecurity.
What Are ZD's Competitive Advantages?
- Brand recognition and reputation of established web properties like IGN and PCMag.
- Diverse portfolio of web properties catering to various interests and demographics.
- Proprietary technology and data analytics capabilities.
- Strong relationships with advertisers and retailers.
What Does ZD Do?
Ziff Davis, Inc., established in 2014 and headquartered in New York City, provides internet information and services across the United States, Canada, Ireland, and internationally. Formerly known as j2 Global, Inc. until its name change in October 2021, the company operates through two primary segments: Digital Media, and Cybersecurity and Martech. The Digital Media segment encompasses a wide array of web properties and applications, including IGN, RetailMeNot, Mashable, PCMag, Humble Bundle, Speedtest, Offers, Black Friday, MedPageToday, Everyday Health, BabyCenter, and What to Expect. These platforms cater to diverse interests within the technology, shopping, entertainment, and health and wellness sectors. The Cybersecurity and Martech segment focuses on delivering cloud-based subscription services to consumers and businesses, offering solutions in cybersecurity, privacy, and marketing technology. With a workforce of 3,800 employees, Ziff Davis continues to evolve its offerings to meet the changing demands of the digital landscape, leveraging its established brands and technological capabilities.
What Products and Services Does ZD Offer?
- Operates a portfolio of web properties and apps, including IGN, RetailMeNot, and PCMag.
- Provides cloud-based subscription services for cybersecurity, privacy, and marketing technology.
- Offers internet information and services to consumers and businesses.
- Connects consumers with deals and discounts through platforms like RetailMeNot and Black Friday.
- Delivers technology news and reviews through PCMag and other tech-focused sites.
- Provides health and wellness information through MedPageToday, Everyday Health, BabyCenter, and What to Expect.
How Does ZD Make Money?
- Generates revenue through advertising on its web properties and apps.
- Earns subscription fees from its cloud-based cybersecurity and martech services.
- Partnerships with retailers to drive sales and earn commissions.
- Affiliate marketing through platforms like RetailMeNot.
What Industry Does ZD Operate In?
Ziff Davis operates within the rapidly evolving advertising agencies industry, which is experiencing a shift towards digital platforms and data-driven advertising solutions. The industry is characterized by intense competition, with companies vying for market share through innovative technologies and targeted advertising strategies. Ziff Davis's diverse portfolio of web properties and cloud-based services positions it to capitalize on the growing demand for digital advertising and cybersecurity solutions. The company's ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements will be crucial for maintaining its competitive edge.
Who Are ZD's Key Customers?
- Consumers seeking information, entertainment, and deals online.
- Businesses looking for cybersecurity, privacy, and marketing technology solutions.
- Advertisers seeking to reach targeted audiences through Ziff Davis's web properties.
- Retailers partnering with Ziff Davis to promote their products and services.
Company Profile
Ziff Davis, Inc. operates in the Advertising Agencies industry within the Communication Services sector. It is headquartered in New York City, US. The company is led by CEO Vivek R. Shah. ZD has traded publicly since 1999.
F-Score 7/9Financial Health
Ziff Davis, Inc.'s Piotroski F-Score is 7/9, a 9-point checklist of profitability, leverage and efficiency — signaling solid underlying fundamentals. Its Altman Z-Score of 1.94 places it in the grey zone, a middle ground that warrants monitoring.
ROE 3%Key Financial Metrics
Return on equity for Ziff Davis, Inc. stands at 2.6%, a gauge of how efficiently it converts shareholder capital into profit. Return on assets is 1.3%, showing how much profit it generates from its asset base. ZD trades at a trailing price-to-earnings ratio of 44.81, above the Communication Services sector average of ~18x. Its free cash flow yield is 15.0%, a gauge of the cash the business throws off relative to its market value. A current ratio of 1.66 indicates the company holds enough short-term assets to cover its near-term obligations. Its earnings yield is 2.3%, the inverse of the P/E and a quick read on earnings relative to price.
ZD Valuation & Market Position
With a $1.96B market cap, Ziff Davis, Inc. sits in the small-cap segment of the market. Relative to its peer group, ZD's quantitative score of 92/100 is above the peer average of 74/100.
FY2026 estForward Outlook
Wall Street analysts project Ziff Davis, Inc. revenue of about $1.22B for fiscal 2026, with EPS near $5.12. The estimate reflects 3 contributing analysts.
Net buyingInsider Activity
Over the past six months, Ziff Davis, Inc. insiders filed 23 SEC Form 4 transactions — 7 sales and 16 purchases. On net that is roughly 186K shares acquired (about $903K) — insiders putting money in tends to read as conviction.
ZD Financials
Fundamental Snapshot
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis · FY 2025
Bull Case vs Bear Case
Bull Case
- ZD's recent insider buying suggests confidence from those who know the company best. This can signal belief in future growth or undervaluation.
- The community seems to be buzzing about ZD's strategic acquisitions, viewing them as a smart play for expanding their market reach and diversifying revenue streams.
- Positive sentiment is building around ZD's ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences in the digital media space. Their agile approach is resonating with investors.
- There's a growing narrative that ZD is undervalued compared to its peers, making it an attractive option for value investors looking for long-term gains.
Bear Case
- Some in the community are concerned about the integration challenges arising from ZD's rapid acquisition strategy. Successfully merging these businesses is key.
- There's a perception that ZD's reliance on advertising revenue makes it vulnerable to economic downturns and shifts in ad spending. This is a recurring concern.
- A segment of the community is questioning ZD's long-term growth prospects in the face of increasing competition from larger, more established players in the digital media landscape.
- Recent market chatter suggests some skepticism regarding ZD's ability to maintain its profit margins as content creation costs rise and competition intensifies.
AI-generated arguments based on insider flow, news sentiment and technicals — not financial advice · March 2026
ZD Latest News
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ZD Analyst Consensus
Consensus Rating
Aggregated Buy/Hold/Sell recommendations from Benzinga, Yahoo Finance, and Finnhub for ZD.
Price Targets
Consensus target: $56.33
ZD MoonshotScore
What does this score mean?
The MoonshotScore rates ZD's growth potential on a scale of 0-100 across multiple factors including innovation, market disruption, financial health, and momentum.
Latest News
1 Cash-Producing Stock to Own for Decades and 2 Facing Challenges
Tenable (TENB) Surges 10.1%: Is This an Indication of Further Gains?
THE NEXT GREAT HOME OBSESSIONS: Domino Announces Official Call for Entries for the 2026 Good Design Awards
Zedge (ZDGE) Stock Sees Split Analyst Revisions On Growth Margins And Valuation
Leadership: Vivek R. Shah
Chief Executive Officer
Vivek R. Shah serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Ziff Davis, Inc. He has extensive experience in the digital media and technology industries. Prior to joining Ziff Davis, Shah held leadership positions at various media and technology companies, including serving as CEO of Everyday Health Group. His background includes a strong focus on digital strategy, business development, and operational execution. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Ziff Davis.
Track Record: Under Vivek Shah's leadership, Ziff Davis has focused on expanding its digital media portfolio and growing its cybersecurity and martech businesses. Key achievements include strategic acquisitions, increased revenue growth, and enhanced profitability. Shah has also overseen the company's transition to a more subscription-based revenue model. His strategic decisions have positioned Ziff Davis for continued success in the digital landscape.
ZD Communication Services Stock FAQ
What does Ziff Davis, Inc. do?
Ziff Davis, Inc. operates as a provider of internet information and services, primarily through its Digital Media and Cybersecurity and Martech segments. The Digital Media segment includes well-known web properties like IGN, RetailMeNot, and PCMag, offering content and services across technology, shopping, entertainment, and health. The Cybersecurity and Martech segment provides cloud-based subscription services to consumers and businesses, focusing on cybersecurity, privacy, and marketing technology solutions. This dual approach allows Ziff Davis to generate revenue through advertising and subscriptions.
What do analysts say about ZD stock?
Analyst consensus on Ziff Davis, Inc. (ZD) is mixed, reflecting the company's diverse business segments and market dynamics. Key valuation metrics, such as its P/E ratio of 44.8, suggest a premium valuation compared to some industry peers. Growth considerations center on the company's ability to expand its cloud-based subscription services and leverage its established digital media brands. Investors should monitor the company's financial performance and strategic initiatives to assess its long-term growth potential. No buy or sell recommendations are made here.
What are the main risks for ZD?
Ziff Davis faces several risks inherent to its business model and industry. Intense competition in the digital media and cybersecurity sectors could pressure margins and market share. Economic downturns may reduce advertising spending, impacting revenue. Changes in consumer preferences and technological advancements could render some of its web properties obsolete. Regulatory changes affecting data privacy and cybersecurity could increase compliance costs and limit its ability to collect and use user data. These factors could negatively impact Ziff Davis's financial performance and growth prospects.
What are the key factors to evaluate for ZD?
Ziff Davis, Inc. (ZD) holds an AI score of 92/100 (high). P/E: 44.8x vs the S&P 500's ~20-25x. Analysts target $56.33 (+6%). Not financial advice.
How frequently does ZD data refresh on this page?
ZD prices update in real time during U.S. market hours. Fundamentals refresh after quarterly filings; analyst ratings and AI insights update daily; news is aggregated continuously.
What has driven ZD's recent stock price performance?
Ziff Davis, Inc. (ZD) moves on earnings results, analyst revisions, sector rotation, and market sentiment. Notable catalyst: Diverse portfolio of web properties and apps. See the News tab for the latest drivers. Past performance does not predict future results.
Should investors consider ZD overvalued or undervalued right now?
Ziff Davis, Inc. (ZD) trades at 44.8x earnings. Analysts target $56.33 (+6%) — near fair value. Compare P/E, P/S, and EV/EBITDA against sector peers for a full view.
What research should beginners do before buying ZD?
Before investing in Ziff Davis, Inc. (ZD), research these four areas: (1) the company's revenue model and competitive position (see Company Overview), (2) financial health through revenue growth, margins, and cash flow (see MoonshotScore), (3) what Wall Street analysts recommend and their price targets (see Analyst tab), and (4) specific risk factors that could impact the stock (see Risk Factors section).
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always do your own research and consult a financial advisor.
Official Resources
Data provided for informational purposes only.
- Information is based on available data and may be subject to change.
- Financial metrics are as of the latest available reporting period.