: The company returned $3.5 billion to shareholders through dividends and repurchases in 2017 alone.
: Merging two massive corporate cultures and diverse tech systems (like reservation platforms) posed operational risks.
: In 2017, the stock was a strong performer, fueled by "superb industrial logic" from the merger. Investors who bought in early 2017 benefited from a 66% price surge as the market priced in the value of the new hospitality giant.
: The acquisition of Starwood in late 2016 gave Marriott control of 30 brands and over 1.1 million rooms across 100 countries.
If you'd like to explore Marriott's current standing, I can provide: (2024–2025) Current analyst ratings and price targets Dividend history and yield analysis
For an investor in 2017, Marriott International (MAR) presented a compelling "Buy" case driven by its historic merger with Starwood Hotels & Resorts, which transformed it into the world's largest hotel company. The Investment Case for 2017
: Rose significantly from $808 million in 2016 to $1.46 billion in 2017.