Criteo SA's (CRTO) stock soared 15.89% in the pre-market trading session on Wednesday, following the company's record fourth quarter 2024 results and an optimistic outlook for 2025.

The commerce media company reported strong financial performance for Q4 2024, with revenue of $553 million, up 21% from the previous quarter. Adjusted EBITDA increased 4% year-over-year to $144 million, and adjusted diluted EPS grew 15% to $1.75, beating analysts' estimates.

Key highlights of Criteo's Q4 and full-year 2024 results include:

• Retail Media revenue grew 20% in Q4 and 24% for the full year, driven by strength in onsite advertising, new client integrations, and growing network effects.
• Contribution ex-TAC increased 6% in Q4 and 10% for the full year, reflecting effective cost management and strong performance in both Retail Media and Performance Media segments.
• The company deployed a record $225 million for share repurchases in 2024 and increased its remaining buyback authorization to $200 million.

For 2025, Criteo is targeting mid-single-digit growth in Contribution ex-TAC at constant currency and an Adjusted EBITDA margin of approximately 33-34% of Contribution ex-TAC. The company's newly appointed CEO, Michael Komasinski, expressed confidence in Criteo's AI-driven innovation and growth prospects.

Analysts view the strong fourth quarter performance, share buybacks, and positive 2025 guidance as key drivers behind Criteo's pre-market surge. The company's focus on expanding its Commerce Media Platform and leveraging generative AI and autonomous driving technologies seems to have resonated well with investors.