Oppenheimer analyst Jason Helfstein surveyed 440 singles to gauge early response to Facebook (FB) Dating, and results highlighted that 40% of respondents were aware of the Facebook Dating product within 48 hours of initial launch in the U.S. Conversion of "aware" users was 15%, and the analyst expects awareness to grow significantly, yielding double digit penetration if the conversion ratio holds. Survey results point to a younger than expected user base, putting Facebook Dating in direct competition with Tinder, he contends. While historical download-data of initial Facebook Dating points to minimal Tinder impact, Helfstein notes that survey results make a compelling argument for near-term headwinds to Match Group (MTCH) shares, coupled with adverse short-term effects from a potential spin of. The analyst has a Perform rating on Match Group's shares.

Bullish option flow detected in Match Group with 5,462 calls trading, 1.2x expected, and implied vol increasing over 2 points to 47.46%. May-24 36 calls and 5/3 weekly 30 puts are the most active options, with total volume in those strikes near 4,900 contracts. The Put/Call Ratio is 0.65. Earnings are expected on May 7th.