Match Group Forecasts Robust Q1 Revenue as Turnaround Takes Hold (MKTG)

[Para 1: The Lead] Match Group, parent of Tinder, forecasts first-quarter revenue surpassing estimates, signaling early success from its turnaround strategy. Shares surge 12% in after-hours trading. (MKTG) [Para 2-3: Supporting details & Context] The company, under CEO Spencer Rascoff's leadership, has been retooling core features to enhance user experience and combat younger daters' growing selectivity. Investments in flagship brands Tinder and Hinge, including AI-driven safety and credibility tools, have yielded positive results. Fourth-quarter paying users declined 5% to 13.8 million, but the company anticipates similar trends in 2026, focusing on long-term sustainable growth. Hinge, a bright spot, saw paying users rise 17% to 1.9 million, bolstered by international expansion. Match forecast Q1 revenue between $850 and $860 million, exceeding analysts' estimates of $853.30 million. (MKTG)