PSON:LSEPearson PLC Analysis
Data as of 2026-03-14 - not real-time
£987.60
Latest Price
4/10Risk
Risk Level: Medium
Executive Summary
Pearson plc (PSON.L) is trading around 987.6 GBp, well below its DCF‑derived fair value of 2,167 GBp, implying a material undervaluation despite a recent 13% YTD price decline. Technicals show a bearish trend direction with the price sitting under the 20‑day (954) and 50‑day (959) SMAs, while the RSI at 64.7 hints at lingering momentum and the MACD histogram remains bullish, suggesting a possible short‑term rebound toward the nearest support at ~896 GBp.
Fundamentally, the company delivers modest revenue growth (3.2%), solid margins (gross 52%, operating 15%) and a forward PE of 12.8× versus an industry average of 17.8×, reinforcing a value‑blend profile. The dividend yield of 2.57% with a 48% payout ratio appears sustainable given strong operating cash flow and a net cash position of £333 m. Upcoming FY‑2025 results and guidance on AI and enterprise opportunities could catalyze a re‑rating, while the low beta (~0.24) and increasing volume mitigate liquidity concerns.
Fundamentally, the company delivers modest revenue growth (3.2%), solid margins (gross 52%, operating 15%) and a forward PE of 12.8× versus an industry average of 17.8×, reinforcing a value‑blend profile. The dividend yield of 2.57% with a 48% payout ratio appears sustainable given strong operating cash flow and a net cash position of £333 m. Upcoming FY‑2025 results and guidance on AI and enterprise opportunities could catalyze a re‑rating, while the low beta (~0.24) and increasing volume mitigate liquidity concerns.
Market Outlook
Short Term
< 1 yearNeutral
Model confidence: 6/10
Key Factors
- Price below short‑term moving averages indicating bearish momentum
- Bullish MACD histogram suggesting limited upside near support
- Upcoming earnings release could clarify direction
Medium Term
1–3 yearsPositive
Model confidence: 8/10
Key Factors
- Significant undervaluation versus DCF fair value
- Forward PE advantage over industry peers
- Attractive dividend yield with sustainable payout
Long Term
> 3 yearsPositive
Model confidence: 9/10
Key Factors
- Secular growth in education and digital learning markets
- Strategic AI and enterprise positioning highlighted in guidance
- Strong cash generation and low leverage supporting dividend continuity
Key Metrics & Analysis
Financial Health
Revenue Growth3.20%
Profit Margin9.37%
P/E Ratio19.4
ROE8.71%
ROA4.96%
Debt/Equity40.51
P/B Ratio173.6
Op. Cash Flow£656.0M
Free Cash Flow£947.4M
Industry P/E17.8
Technical Analysis
TrendBearish
RSI64.7
Support£896.40
Resistance£1,002.50
MA 20£954.30
MA 50£959.29
MA 200£1,031.68
MACDBullish
VolumeIncreasing
Fear & Greed Index72.88
Valuation
Fair Value£2,167.22
Target Price£1,163.91
Upside/Downside17.85%
GradeUndervalued
TypeBlend
Dividend Yield2.57%
Risk Assessment
Beta0.24
Volatility29.12%
Sector RiskMedium
Reg. RiskMedium
Geo RiskMedium
Currency RiskLow
Liquidity RiskLow
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This analysis may contain inaccuracies and is provided for informational and research purposes only. It is not personal investment advice, a recommendation, or an instruction to buy, sell, or hold any asset.