Cautious Hold Rating on Worldline Amid Revenue Decline and Margin Pressure

Hannes Leitner, an analyst from Jefferies, maintained the Hold rating on Worldline. The associated price target remains the same with €3.80.

Hannes Leitner’s rating is based on a combination of factors that suggest a cautious approach towards Worldline’s stock. The anticipated decline in total revenues by 4% organically, which is slightly below consensus expectations, indicates potential challenges in the company’s growth trajectory. Specifically, the expected decreases in Merchant Services and Financial Services by 3% and 11% respectively, contrast with a modest 2% growth in Mobility and e-Transactional Services.
Moreover, the projected EBITDA margin of 19% for the first half, which is 5% below expectations, highlights a shift towards lower-margin business segments. This financial outlook, coupled with the upcoming 2025 guidance and management’s commentary on external assessments, suggests a period of uncertainty. These elements collectively justify the Hold rating as investors await clearer signals on future performance.

In another report released yesterday, Morgan Stanley also maintained a Hold rating on the stock with a €3.80 price target.