Strong Performance on Pearson's Books

Pearson's strong results reaffirm our view that the company has created a competitive advantage with its collection of education franchises

Michael Corty, CFA 1 March, 2011 | 10:28AM
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Pearson's (PSON) strong second-half and full-year results reaffirm our view that the company has created a competitive advantage with its collection of education franchises. Sales and profitability were better than expected, and we anticipate an increase to our fair value estimate after reviewing our financial model assumptions.

Pearson generated full-year sales growth of 10%, or 5% when excluding the impact of foreign exchange rates (stronger US dollar relative to the sterling) and acquisition activity. The underlying sales growth in each division reflected an improved economic environment and Pearson's strong product offering, especially in educational publishing and testing. North American education revenue improved 4% as the company gained market share in higher education, elementary-high school publishing, and assessment testing. We expect some headwinds for the el-hi category in 2011 with fewer new textbook adoptions and continued pressure on state budgets. Internal growth in the international education was 6% as Pearson continues to push forward in expanding its business through internal investment and bolt-on acquisitions.

The Financial Times segment posted 9% sales growth, fuelled by an improved ad market and higher digital sales. Overall adjusted operating margins of 15.1% were higher than 13.8% in the prior year as Pearson benefited from margin improvement in its education and Financial Times segments. We believe Pearson can maintain this level of profitability even though we expect the lower-margin international segment to grow faster than its North American business over the next several years.

The information contained within is for educational and informational purposes ONLY. It is not intended nor should it be considered an invitation or inducement to buy or sell a security or securities noted within nor should it be viewed as a communication intended to persuade or incite you to buy or sell security or securities noted within. Any commentary provided is the opinion of the author and should not be considered a personalised recommendation. The information contained within should not be a person's sole basis for making an investment decision. Please contact your financial professional before making an investment decision.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

Securities Mentioned in Article

Security NamePriceChange (%)Morningstar
Rating
Pearson PLC1,227.50 GBX2.21

About Author

Michael Corty, CFA  Michael Corty, CFA, is an equity analyst with Morningstar.

© Copyright 2024 Morningstar, Inc. All rights reserved.

Terms of Use        Privacy Policy        Modern Slavery Statement        Cookie Settings        Disclosures