Market's view on Informa
Published on April 2024
- Stock watchers acknowledge the company’s consistent performance, with upgraded forecasts and increased capital returns expected in 2024. The company is on track to be cash positive within three years, allowing for further value-adding acquisitions.
- Positive interim results have led to an upward revision of the full-year profit forecast, with operation profits expected to surpass previous expectations due to well-timed and priced acquisitions.
- There is optimism about the company’s management, with suggestions that the stock price could approach pre-COVID levels if growth persists. An increase in the 2023 guidance supports this sentiment.
- Discussions include the strategic acquisition of Tarsus, viewed positively despite reservations about purchasing from private equity. The acquisition is expected to be significantly earnings-enhancing and is structured to allow a large share buyback.
- The company’s trading performance is reportedly exceeding market expectations, helping to justify recent increases in share price.
- A resurgence in the company’s event-related businesses is anticipated post-COVID, highlighted by strong attendance at major events in China and the potential for full recovery by 2023.
- Stock watchers discuss the broad impact of COVID-19 on the events sector, with a phased recovery expected to last through the majority of the year. There are concerns about the possibility of a second wave and further lockdowns.