Grindr Surges After Billionaire Owner Withdraws Buyout Bid and Buys Shares

Grindr Inc (GRND:US) is a LGBTQ-focused social networking and dating app. Founded in 2009, the California-based company monetizes through subscription revenues and advertising, positioning itself as a key player in digital social platforms for the LGBTQ community. Grindr is currently valued at around $2.4 billion in market capitalization and remains publicly listed on the NYSE.

Insider Activity Signals Confidence

Billionaire George Raymond Zage III, Grindr’s controlling shareholder and founder of Singapore-based Tiga Investments, has made significant open-market purchases, reinforcing his confidence in the company’s future. On November 28, 2025, Zage acquired 150,000 shares at $12.88 per share, investing approximately $1.93 million. He followed up with another 150,000 shares on December 1, 2025, at $12.91 per share, committing roughly $1.94 million.

These acquisitions increase Zage’s direct holdings, reflecting both his long-term commitment and belief in the company’s upside potential. These trades come shortly after Zage and business partner James Lu withdrew their bid to take Grindr private, a deal valued at $3.5 billion. The withdrawal followed concerns over financing and the board’s preference to remain publicly listed.

Grindr’s stock reacted to these developments with volatility. Shares initially fell after the buyout offer was withdrawn, but rebounded following the news of Zage’s open-market purchases. The billionaire’s commitment to continue buying shares signals a potential re-rating and renewed investor confidence.

Financial Performance and Future Outlook

Grindr has demonstrated strong operational performance in recent quarters. Key metrics include:

• Q3 2025 Net Profit: $31 million, up 25 percent year-over-year

• Full-Year Adjusted EBITDA: Projected up to $193 million

• Revenue Streams: Subscription services and advertising

• User Base: 15 million monthly active users, with 1.3 million paying subscribers

The company’s growth trajectory is supported by rising paying users and expanding monetization opportunities, highlighting a clear path to further profitability and shareholder value.

Looking ahead, Zage has emphasized his vision for shareholder returns, advocating for increased buybacks and potential dividends in the future. His latest insider purchases are not just a signal of confidence but also a call for Grindr’s management to focus on capital allocation that rewards investors.

For a company with a strong niche in the digital social space, growing financial performance, and a billionaire shareholder actively backing it, the market is likely to keep a close eye on Grindr. With continued execution, these insider moves could mark the beginning of a broader positive re-rating for the stock.