Grab Raises Forecasts as AI Boosts Delivery Speed and Efficiency

Grab Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: GRAB), Southeast Asia's prominent superapp, has surpassed market expectations with its second-quarter 2026 financial results. The company reported a remarkable profit of $252 million for the quarter, marking a 620% increase compared to the same period last year. This strong performance is attributed to the successful integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into its operational processes and robust growth across its business segments.

Grab's announcement highlighted that AI-powered solutions have helped triple the speed of product deliveries, significantly enhancing the company's operational efficiency. Peter Oey, Grab's Chief Financial Officer, noted that AI investments have contributed to an improved cost structure and a reduction of approximately 40,000 hours in sales inefficiencies. These technological advancements have enabled Grab's “Grab intelligence layer” to boost driver and merchant-partner earnings while simultaneously improving operational effectiveness.

In the second quarter, Grab's revenue increased by 22% year-over-year to $997 million. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) surged by 54% to $168 million, with the adjusted EBITDA margin expanding from 13.3% to 16.9%. The company's on-demand gross merchandise value (GMV) grew 21% to $6.5 billion, and monthly transacting users (MTU) reached a record 54 million, up 17%. Specifically, revenue from delivery services rose to $531 million, while financial services revenue climbed 59% to $134 million.

In light of these positive developments, Grab has raised its financial guidance for 2026. The company now expects full-year revenue to be between $4.10 billion and $4.15 billion, up from its previous projection of $4.04 billion to $4.10 billion. The adjusted EBITDA forecast has also been increased from $700 million-$720 million to $720 million-$740 million. Furthermore, the board authorized an additional $750 million share repurchase program, bringing the cumulative authorized amount to $1.75 billion since 2024.

Markets reacted positively to Grab's strong quarterly results and optimistic outlook. The company's Nasdaq-listed shares saw an uptick in both regular and after-hours trading following the announcement. Analysts noted that Grab's affordability strategy, driver incentives, and AI investments have been effective in attracting customers and increasing driver earnings. Notably, despite elevated fuel prices in Southeast Asia, the company's commitment of over $7 million in driver support contributed to a 19% increase in active drivers.

Grab's financial services segment is anticipated to achieve adjusted EBITDA profitability in the second half of 2026. The consolidation of Superbank and the acquisition of Stash also represent key components of its growth strategy. Moving forward, with the deepening of AI-focused strategies and continued geographical expansion, Grab is expected to solidify its leading position in Southeast Asia and progress further on its path to sustainable profitability.