Published on: September 5, 2023
Strategic progress in tough ad markets
STV’s H1 results confirm a picture of continuing uncertainty in the UK economy and advertising markets (albeit Q3 should be positive due to sporting events), driving a reduction of 8%-9% to FY EPS estimates. As market leader though, STV is very well placed to benefit when the ad market recovers, with every 1% of advertising uplift having a material positive impact on EPS. STV also continues to make vigorous progress in its diversification strategy. Growth in both Digital and Studios businesses (forecasts unchanged, now 69% of profits) should also drive future growth for the group.
