Three things you need to know in the financial markets today from investment writer, Tony Cross.
#1. Just Eat: can 2023’s growth offset outlook concerns?
Just Eat Takeaway [LON:JET] has published a trading statement for the final quarter of FY23, noting that gross transaction value growth for the year has been in line with guidance and that the company finished the year on a high.
Adjusted EBITDA for the FY is ahead of guidance and the business is also free cash flow positive. Whether this news is sufficient to recover recent losses off the back of pessimistic broker notes however remains to be seen.
#2. Ibstock: bricking it?
Building products manufacturer Ibstock LON:IBST has a full year trading update out today, noting that revenues for 2023 are expected to be down 21%, reflecting the subdued market conditions. Cost reductions however will leave EBITDA in line with previous expectations.
The company expects weaker demand to persist in the near term but mitigation measured have already been put in place, including headcount reductions and the closure of a brick factory in Surrey. Lingering inflationary pressures can be largely offset by price action, but there’s a clear pessimistic tone prevailing here.
#3. Pearson cost savings turbocharge profitability
Educational publisher Pearson LON:PSON has issued a trading update this morning, showing underlying sales up 5% but adjusted profits up by more than 30% thanks in part to a £120m cost efficieny program. Subscriber numbers have passed the 1m milestone and the overall financial performance is noted as being ahead of initial expectations.
