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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.

Market Outlook

Short Term

< 1 year
Neutral
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 years
Positive
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 years
Positive
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

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.