IMAX Holds Preliminary Sale Talks as Shares Jump 14% to Nearly $39
Updated
Updated · CNBC · May 22
IMAX Holds Preliminary Sale Talks as Shares Jump 14% to Nearly $39
7 articles · Updated · CNBC · May 22
IMAX was in preliminary sale discussions through intermediaries, CNBC reported, though the company has not made formal pitches and may not be actively pursuing a deal.
Shares rose about 14% Friday to nearly $39, valuing IMAX at roughly $2.1 billion, as analysts argued the company trades below its standalone worth and could attract multiple bidders.
Wedbush named private equity, Netflix, Apple and Sony as likely suitors, while other analysts said traditional studios and theater chains may face conflicts over IMAX release windows and box-office sharing.
Record performance has strengthened the takeover case: IMAX generated $1.28 billion in global box office last year, and one analyst sees 2026 revenue reaching $448 million with adjusted profit of $197 million.
The company is also expanding beyond Hollywood tentpoles through filmed-for-IMAX releases, local-language content and 160 to 175 planned system installs in 2026, widening its strategic appeal.
As Imax explores a sale, could its next owner be a tech giant, not a Hollywood studio?
With a record box office but recent revenue dips, is Imax wisely selling at its peak value?
How will a sale affect Hollywood's growing reliance on Imax's cameras for its biggest blockbusters?