Malibu Boats Acquires Saxdor Yachts for Approximately $175M
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Mar 02 2026
0mins
Should l Buy MBUU?
Malibu Boats announced that it has acquired Saxdor Yachts, a European designer and manufacturer of premium adventure dayboats for approximately $175M, representing a valuation of approximately 7.2x estimated EBITDA for the twelve months ending March 31. Based on the transaction valuation and the consideration mix of 73% cash and 27% stock, the acquisition of Saxdor is expected to be accretive to MBI's earnings per share in the current fiscal year and significantly accretive in Fiscal 2027. The balanced funding structure results in pro forma net leverage of approximately 1.5x, well below the company's stated maximum net leverage1 of 2.5x, thus preserving the company's financial flexibility to invest in future growth initiatives while continuing to return capital to shareholders.
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Analyst Views on MBUU
Wall Street analysts forecast MBUU stock price to rise
5 Analyst Rating
3 Buy
2 Hold
0 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 26.000
Low
30.00
Averages
35.40
High
40.00
Current: 26.000
Low
30.00
Averages
35.40
High
40.00
About MBUU
Malibu Boats, Inc. is a designer, manufacturer and marketer of a diverse range of recreational powerboats, including performance sport, sterndrive and outboard boats. The Company's brands include Malibu, Axis, Pursuit, Maverick, Cobia, Pathfinder, Hewes and Cobalt. Its segments include Malibu, Saltwater Fishing and Cobalt. Its Malibu segment participates in the manufacturing, distribution, marketing and sale of Malibu and Axis performance sports boats. Its Saltwater Fishing segment participates in the manufacturing, distribution, marketing and sale throughout the world of Pursuit boats and the Maverick Boat Group family of boats (Maverick, Cobia, Pathfinder and Hewes). The Company’s Cobalt segment is engaged in manufacturing, distribution, marketing and sale of Cobalt boats throughout the world. Its product portfolio of premium brands is used for a range of recreational boating activities including, among others, water sports, general recreational boating and fishing.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
Malibu Boats Acquires Saxdor Yachts for €150M
- Acquisition Overview: Malibu Boats has acquired Saxdor Yachts for approximately €150 million ($175 million), with a valuation of about 7.2 times estimated EBITDA for the twelve months ending March 31, 2026, reflecting strong confidence in high-growth markets.
- Global Distribution Network: Saxdor boasts a dedicated dealer network of over 100 locations across more than 50 countries on five continents, particularly strengthening Malibu's market penetration through its growing partnership with MarineMax in North America.
- Brand and Operational Autonomy: Saxdor will operate as a subsidiary of Malibu while maintaining its brand identity and operational autonomy, a strategy that is expected to attract more high-end customers and enhance brand value.
- Strategic Development Vision: Malibu CEO Steve Menneto highlighted that this acquisition not only expands the product portfolio but also establishes a global manufacturing footprint, improving sourcing and service capabilities, thereby creating a more resilient business platform through market cycles.
See More
Malibu Acquires Saxdor to Expand Global Operations
- Strategic Acquisition: Malibu acquired Saxdor for approximately EUR 150 million (USD $175 million), with a valuation of about 7.2x EBITDA, which is expected to significantly enhance the company's earnings per share and advance its 'Build, Innovate, and Grow' strategy.
- Market Growth Potential: Saxdor has shown impressive performance in the adventure dayboat market, with a year-over-year revenue growth of approximately 65% in 2025, and is projected to generate revenue of USD $225–235 million in 2026, reflecting a 15% CAGR potential in this segment.
- Global Distribution Network: Saxdor operates through over 100 dealers in more than 50 countries, with North America accounting for 33% of its revenue, and Malibu plans to leverage its distribution and service infrastructure to further expand market share and enhance global reach.
- Profitability Enhancement: Saxdor is expected to achieve EBITDA margins of 10-11% in 2026, and the acquisition will immediately accrete to Malibu's adjusted EBITDA margin profile, supporting the company's long-term margin expansion goals.
See More
Malibu Boats Earns Customer Satisfaction Recognition
- Customer Satisfaction Recognition: Malibu Boats and Axis Wake received recognition through the Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) at the 2026 Miami International Boat Show, reflecting positive feedback from new boat owners during their first year of ownership, showcasing the company's excellence in product quality and craftsmanship.
- Engineering and Manufacturing Excellence: This recognition emphasizes Malibu and Axis's commitment to engineering excellence, vertical integration, and consistent manufacturing, ensuring that every boat meets high-quality standards, thereby enhancing the overall ownership experience for customers.
- Dealer Network Contribution: The CSI recognition also highlights the crucial role of the dealer network in delivering and supporting products, ensuring that customers receive high standards of service across key touchpoints such as purchase, delivery, and service support, further boosting customer satisfaction.
- Commitment to Continuous Improvement: Rachael Green, Senior Vice President of Operations & Engineering, stated that the company's goal is to build the best boats and provide a world-class ownership experience, a commitment reflected in every manufacturing step and the quality of service provided by dealers, aiming to meet customer expectations for high-quality products.
See More
Malibu Boats Becomes Exclusive Sponsor of 2026 Gravel Tour
- Exclusive Sponsorship: Malibu Boats has announced its role as the exclusive towboat sponsor for the Performance Ski & Surf Gravel Tour, highlighting its commitment to grassroots watersports and expected to enhance its brand influence within the watersports community.
- Event History and Impact: Founded in 1999, the Gravel Tour has become one of the most influential grassroots watersports tournaments globally, attracting riders of all ages and skill levels, thereby promoting the growth and popularity of the sport.
- Performance and Technical Support: For the 2026 season, the Malibu M230 will provide exceptional towing performance, ensuring that competitive athletes across wakeboarding, wakesurfing, wakeskating, and foiling meet high standards, further solidifying its competitive position in the market.
- Community and Family Engagement: This partnership emphasizes the family involvement aspect of the event, fostering unity within the watersports community, with support from Malibu Boats and Liquid Planet Marine expected to attract more passionate participants and spectators.
See More
Malibu Boats Wins Customer Satisfaction Awards
- Brand Recognition: Malibu Boats' five brands received Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Awards at the 2026 Miami International Boat Show, highlighting their exceptional performance in customer satisfaction.
- Segment Performance: Malibu and Axis brands were awarded in the Ski, Wake & Surf Boats segment, while Cobalt, Pursuit, and Pathfinder were recognized in the Fiberglass Outboard Boats category, demonstrating the company's strong competitiveness across multiple product lines.
- Customer Satisfaction Standards: The NMMA CSI Awards are based on verified boat owner feedback, requiring manufacturers to meet rigorous satisfaction thresholds, which not only reflects Malibu Boats' product quality but also emphasizes their commitment to customer experience.
- Commitment to Innovation and Quality: Malibu Boats continues to focus on innovation, quality craftsmanship, and customer-centric design to meet the diverse needs of recreational boating customers worldwide, thereby solidifying its leadership position in the market.
See More
Malibu Boats Q2 2026 Earnings Call Insights
- Financial Performance Overview: Malibu Boats reported net sales of $188.6 million in Q2, a 5.8% year-over-year decline, with unit volume down 9.5% to 1,106 units, yet still exceeding internal expectations, showcasing the company's resilience in a challenging retail environment.
- Innovative Product Launch: The company plans to debut two new models, the Pursuit 286 and Pathfinder 2800, at the Miami International Boat Show, emphasizing ongoing product innovation and market engagement aimed at attracting more consumers and enhancing market share.
- Share Repurchase Program Expansion: The CFO noted that free cash flow for Q2 was $8.4 million, with $20.8 million in share repurchases completed, demonstrating the company's commitment to shareholders while expanding the repurchase program to $70 million to enhance shareholder value.
- Market Outlook: Management expects Q3 net sales to be between $198 million and $202 million, with full-year sales anticipated to be flat to down mid-single digits, reflecting a cautious outlook on the market while emphasizing continued focus on operational efficiency and cost control.
See More
Malibu Boats Acquires Saxdor Yachts for €150M
- Acquisition Overview: Malibu Boats has acquired Saxdor Yachts for approximately €150 million ($175 million), with a valuation of about 7.2 times estimated EBITDA for the twelve months ending March 31, 2026, reflecting strong confidence in high-growth markets.
- Global Distribution Network: Saxdor boasts a dedicated dealer network of over 100 locations across more than 50 countries on five continents, particularly strengthening Malibu's market penetration through its growing partnership with MarineMax in North America.
- Brand and Operational Autonomy: Saxdor will operate as a subsidiary of Malibu while maintaining its brand identity and operational autonomy, a strategy that is expected to attract more high-end customers and enhance brand value.
- Strategic Development Vision: Malibu CEO Steve Menneto highlighted that this acquisition not only expands the product portfolio but also establishes a global manufacturing footprint, improving sourcing and service capabilities, thereby creating a more resilient business platform through market cycles.
See More
Malibu Acquires Saxdor to Expand Global Operations
- Strategic Acquisition: Malibu acquired Saxdor for approximately EUR 150 million (USD $175 million), with a valuation of about 7.2x EBITDA, which is expected to significantly enhance the company's earnings per share and advance its 'Build, Innovate, and Grow' strategy.
- Market Growth Potential: Saxdor has shown impressive performance in the adventure dayboat market, with a year-over-year revenue growth of approximately 65% in 2025, and is projected to generate revenue of USD $225–235 million in 2026, reflecting a 15% CAGR potential in this segment.
- Global Distribution Network: Saxdor operates through over 100 dealers in more than 50 countries, with North America accounting for 33% of its revenue, and Malibu plans to leverage its distribution and service infrastructure to further expand market share and enhance global reach.
- Profitability Enhancement: Saxdor is expected to achieve EBITDA margins of 10-11% in 2026, and the acquisition will immediately accrete to Malibu's adjusted EBITDA margin profile, supporting the company's long-term margin expansion goals.
See More
Malibu Boats Earns Customer Satisfaction Recognition
- Customer Satisfaction Recognition: Malibu Boats and Axis Wake received recognition through the Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) at the 2026 Miami International Boat Show, reflecting positive feedback from new boat owners during their first year of ownership, showcasing the company's excellence in product quality and craftsmanship.
- Engineering and Manufacturing Excellence: This recognition emphasizes Malibu and Axis's commitment to engineering excellence, vertical integration, and consistent manufacturing, ensuring that every boat meets high-quality standards, thereby enhancing the overall ownership experience for customers.
- Dealer Network Contribution: The CSI recognition also highlights the crucial role of the dealer network in delivering and supporting products, ensuring that customers receive high standards of service across key touchpoints such as purchase, delivery, and service support, further boosting customer satisfaction.
- Commitment to Continuous Improvement: Rachael Green, Senior Vice President of Operations & Engineering, stated that the company's goal is to build the best boats and provide a world-class ownership experience, a commitment reflected in every manufacturing step and the quality of service provided by dealers, aiming to meet customer expectations for high-quality products.
See More
Malibu Boats Becomes Exclusive Sponsor of 2026 Gravel Tour
- Exclusive Sponsorship: Malibu Boats has announced its role as the exclusive towboat sponsor for the Performance Ski & Surf Gravel Tour, highlighting its commitment to grassroots watersports and expected to enhance its brand influence within the watersports community.
- Event History and Impact: Founded in 1999, the Gravel Tour has become one of the most influential grassroots watersports tournaments globally, attracting riders of all ages and skill levels, thereby promoting the growth and popularity of the sport.
- Performance and Technical Support: For the 2026 season, the Malibu M230 will provide exceptional towing performance, ensuring that competitive athletes across wakeboarding, wakesurfing, wakeskating, and foiling meet high standards, further solidifying its competitive position in the market.
- Community and Family Engagement: This partnership emphasizes the family involvement aspect of the event, fostering unity within the watersports community, with support from Malibu Boats and Liquid Planet Marine expected to attract more passionate participants and spectators.
See More
Malibu Boats Wins Customer Satisfaction Awards
- Brand Recognition: Malibu Boats' five brands received Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Awards at the 2026 Miami International Boat Show, highlighting their exceptional performance in customer satisfaction.
- Segment Performance: Malibu and Axis brands were awarded in the Ski, Wake & Surf Boats segment, while Cobalt, Pursuit, and Pathfinder were recognized in the Fiberglass Outboard Boats category, demonstrating the company's strong competitiveness across multiple product lines.
- Customer Satisfaction Standards: The NMMA CSI Awards are based on verified boat owner feedback, requiring manufacturers to meet rigorous satisfaction thresholds, which not only reflects Malibu Boats' product quality but also emphasizes their commitment to customer experience.
- Commitment to Innovation and Quality: Malibu Boats continues to focus on innovation, quality craftsmanship, and customer-centric design to meet the diverse needs of recreational boating customers worldwide, thereby solidifying its leadership position in the market.
See More
Malibu Boats Q2 2026 Earnings Call Insights
- Financial Performance Overview: Malibu Boats reported net sales of $188.6 million in Q2, a 5.8% year-over-year decline, with unit volume down 9.5% to 1,106 units, yet still exceeding internal expectations, showcasing the company's resilience in a challenging retail environment.
- Innovative Product Launch: The company plans to debut two new models, the Pursuit 286 and Pathfinder 2800, at the Miami International Boat Show, emphasizing ongoing product innovation and market engagement aimed at attracting more consumers and enhancing market share.
- Share Repurchase Program Expansion: The CFO noted that free cash flow for Q2 was $8.4 million, with $20.8 million in share repurchases completed, demonstrating the company's commitment to shareholders while expanding the repurchase program to $70 million to enhance shareholder value.
- Market Outlook: Management expects Q3 net sales to be between $198 million and $202 million, with full-year sales anticipated to be flat to down mid-single digits, reflecting a cautious outlook on the market while emphasizing continued focus on operational efficiency and cost control.
See More
