0858 GMT - Publicis Groupe's $2.55 billion deal to acquire U.S. data specialist LiveRamp might raise some questions among investors given that it reduces the likelihood of a share buyback, UBS's Jo Barnet-Lamb and Ashna Gautam say in a research note. The acquisition seems in line with the French advertising group's strategy, but some might question its capital-allocation priorities, the analysts say. Given Publicis' current valuation, investors have increasingly favored buybacks over acquisitions, according to UBS. That said, the deal offers a clear strategic rationale and Publicis has room to reduce its debt ratios quickly, the analysts say. Shares in Publicis rise 2.3%, while LiveRamp jumps 27% in U.S. premarket trading. (adria.calatayud@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

May 18, 2026 04:59 ET (08:59 GMT)

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