WPP Reports Solid 1Q Sales; Shares Fairly Valued

We were encouraged that management indicated it continues to expect margin improvement in 201, even though WPP did not give any profitability results in its update

Michael Corty, CFA 4 May, 2011 | 10:04AM
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn

There were no surprises in WPP Group's (WPP) sales update for the first quarter, and we remain comfortable with our fair value estimate. WPP reported revenue growth of 7% in the first quarter (organic growth of 6.7%) as the company continued to benefit from a robust advertising environment. US sales improved 7%, and international growth in emerging markets like Asia-Pacific and Latin America was even stronger at 11.5% in the quarter. We expect long-term revenue growth to be driven by regions such as India, China, and South America, and we expect WPP's acquisitions to centre on these developing markets.

The advertising category was the strongest in the quarter with a 9.3% growth rate, which was expected given the advertising rebound that continues across media companies. WPP did not give any profitability results in its update, but we were encouraged that management indicated it continues to expect margin improvement in 2011. We believe WPP shares are about fairly valued at current prices, and perhaps ironically the most opportune time to invest in the shares occurs when the advertising market is weak or in decline, as the market projects poor recent results too far into the future.

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
WPP PLC803.80 GBX0.90Rating

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