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Serco Group plc (GB:SRP)
LSE:SRP

Serco Group plc (SRP) AI Stock Analysis

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Serco Group plc

(LSE:SRP)

Rating:72Outperform
Price Target:
207.00p
▲(6.81%Upside)
The overall score reflects strong corporate events and robust cash flow management as significant strengths. However, high valuation and signals of overbought technical conditions pose risks. Profitability challenges and rising debt levels also need to be addressed for sustained growth.

Serco Group plc (SRP) vs. iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (EWC)

Serco Group plc Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionSerco Group plc provides public services in the United Kingdom, Europe, North America, the Asia Pacific, and the Middle East. The company offers base and operational support engineering, and management and information, as well as nuclear, space, and maritime services for the defense sector; and custodial, immigration detention, and detainee transport and monitoring services for the justice and immigration sectors. It also provides rail, ferry, and cycle operations; road traffic management; and air traffic control services to the transportation sector, as well as integrated facilities management, pathology and non-clinical support, and patient administration and contact services for the health sector. In addition, the company offers citizen services, including contact centers and case management; middle, back office, and IT; and employment and skills services. The company serves the United Kingdom and Canadian governments, devolved authorities, and other public sector customers; and federal and civilian agencies, and various state and municipal governments. Serco Group plc was founded in 1929 and is based in Hook, the United Kingdom.
How the Company Makes MoneySerco Group plc generates revenue through long-term contracts with government and public sector organizations. Key revenue streams include providing outsourced services such as facilities management, border security, health services, and transportation management. The company often engages in public-private partnerships, leveraging its expertise to improve operational efficiency and service delivery for its clients. Factors contributing to Serco's earnings include its ability to secure multi-year contracts, its focus on operational excellence, and strategic expansions into new markets and sectors.

Serco Group plc Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Serco Group displays a mixed financial picture. Strong cash flow management and a stable equity position are strengths. However, challenges in profitability and rising debt levels pose potential risks. Improvement in revenue conversion into profit and operational cost management is essential for future financial health.
Income Statement
65
Positive
The income statement reveals a mixed performance. The gross profit margin shows stability with a modest increase over recent years. However, the net profit margin declined significantly in the latest year, indicating profitability challenges. Revenue growth has been inconsistent, with a slight contraction in the latest period. The EBIT margin has seen a noticeable decrease, reflecting operational inefficiencies, while EBITDA margin also fell, indicating pressure on earnings before depreciation and amortization.
Balance Sheet
75
Positive
The balance sheet reflects moderate financial health. The debt-to-equity ratio has risen, suggesting increased leverage, which could pose risks if earnings do not improve. Return on equity has decreased, showing reduced efficiency in generating profits from shareholders' equity. However, the equity ratio remains stable, indicating reasonable financial stability and asset management.
Cash Flow
80
Positive
Cash flow statements indicate strong cash generation. Free cash flow has grown consistently, demonstrating effective cash management and operational efficiency. The operating cash flow to net income ratio is robust, signaling that cash flow generation remains strong relative to accounting profits. The free cash flow to net income ratio also suggests solid cash conversion, despite lower net income.
Breakdown
Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income StatementTotal Revenue
4.79B4.87B4.53B4.42B3.88B
Gross Profit
518.60M495.50M493.50M468.00M383.00M
EBIT
130.10M230.60M217.20M216.20M179.20M
EBITDA
326.90M422.00M382.00M365.20M299.90M
Net Income Common Stockholders
44.20M202.40M155.40M303.90M133.80M
Balance SheetCash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments
183.00M94.40M57.20M198.40M335.70M
Total Assets
2.66B2.61B2.75B2.73B2.41B
Total Debt
806.40M659.90M708.90M807.30M791.40M
Net Debt
623.40M565.50M651.70M608.90M455.70M
Total Liabilities
1.82B1.58B1.72B1.73B1.70B
Stockholders Equity
842.50M1.03B1.03B1.01B713.30M
Cash FlowFree Cash Flow
385.00M368.40M307.80M317.80M218.40M
Operating Cash Flow
419.40M393.10M327.20M349.90M268.50M
Investing Cash Flow
-7.40M-5.40M-35.30M-232.30M600.00K
Financing Cash Flow
-322.30M-347.90M-436.80M-250.10M-24.70M

Serco Group plc Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price193.80
Price Trends
50DMA
174.27
Positive
100DMA
164.92
Positive
200DMA
163.36
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
5.43
Positive
RSI
81.40
Negative
STOCH
75.27
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For GB:SRP, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 193.8 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 188.20, above the 50-day MA of 174.27, and above the 200-day MA of 163.36, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 5.43 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 81.40 is Negative, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 75.27 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for GB:SRP.

Serco Group plc Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (66)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
79
Outperform
£7.57B22.3225.35%4.29%1.94%16.26%
GBMTO
77
Outperform
£1.75B17.4823.48%1.81%15.25%25.57%
GBSRP
72
Outperform
£1.96B46.314.71%2.92%-0.68%-78.93%
GBRTO
68
Neutral
£8.98B29.357.38%1.66%1.13%-19.48%
GBRST
68
Neutral
£347.10M27.745.32%0.79%-0.65%
GBCPI
66
Neutral
£285.30M3.8249.03%-10.33%
66
Neutral
$4.51B12.295.40%3.67%4.15%-12.21%
* Industrials Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
GB:SRP
Serco Group plc
194.70
28.78
17.35%
GB:CPI
Capita plc
259.00
43.30
20.07%
GB:ITRK
Intertek
4,836.00
102.15
2.16%
GB:MTO
Mitie Group plc
146.60
33.49
29.61%
GB:RTO
Rentokil Initial
354.20
-96.61
-21.43%
GB:RST
Restore
259.00
-1.04
-0.40%

Serco Group plc Corporate Events

M&A TransactionsBusiness Operations and Strategy
Serco Completes Strategic Acquisition of MT&S to Boost Defense Sector
Positive
May 27, 2025

Serco Group plc has completed the acquisition of Northrop Grumman’s mission training and satellite ground network communications software business, MT&S, through its US subsidiary, Serco Inc. This acquisition is expected to significantly enhance Serco’s defense sector operations, which will now account for approximately 40% of the company’s revenue. The acquisition is projected to contribute $175 million in revenue and $20 million in underlying operating profit for 2025, with the transaction being accretive to earnings per share by 2026. The acquisition strengthens Serco’s position for future organic growth and increases its scale and breadth of solutions in the defense industry.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SRP) stock is a Buy with a £225.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Serco Group plc stock, see the GB:SRP Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and Strategy
Serco Secures £1bn Maritime Services Contracts with UK Ministry of Defence
Positive
May 15, 2025

Serco Group plc has secured three significant contracts valued at over £1 billion from the UK Ministry of Defence to provide maritime services for the Royal Navy. These contracts, which will commence later this year, include the procurement of new vessels and the provision of in-port and offshore support services, further solidifying Serco’s position in the defense market. This achievement is part of Serco’s broader strategy of expanding its defense contract portfolio globally, highlighting its role as a key partner in military operations and its commitment to modernizing naval support capabilities.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SRP) stock is a Buy with a £2.83 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Serco Group plc stock, see the GB:SRP Stock Forecast page.

DividendsRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Serco CFO Engages in Share Acquisition Reflecting Confidence
Positive
May 13, 2025

Serco Group plc announced a transaction involving Nigel Crossley, the Group Chief Financial Officer, who participated in a Dividend Reinvestment Plan by acquiring ordinary shares. This transaction, compliant with the UK Market Abuse Regulation, reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to transparency and regulatory adherence. The acquisition of shares by a senior executive may indicate confidence in the company’s future performance, potentially impacting investor sentiment positively.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SRP) stock is a Buy with a £225.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Serco Group plc stock, see the GB:SRP Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and Strategy
Serco Group Announces Managerial Share Interest Changes
Neutral
May 9, 2025

Serco Group plc announced changes in the interests of its managerial staff in ordinary shares, following the grant of dividend equivalents at a price of £1.593 per share. This move, which applies to various incentive plans, reflects the company’s commitment to aligning managerial interests with shareholder value, potentially impacting its operational strategies and stakeholder relationships.

Executive/Board ChangesShareholder Meetings
Serco Group plc AGM Results and Leadership Update
Neutral
Apr 24, 2025

Serco Group plc announced the successful passage of all resolutions at its Annual General Meeting, with a significant shareholder turnout of 77.70% of issued share capital. Notably, the Directors’ Remuneration Report received less than 80% approval, prompting the company to engage with shareholders for further consultation. Additionally, Lynne Peacock will step down as Chair of the Remuneration Committee, to be succeeded by Victoria Hull, while continuing her role as Senior Independent Director.

Executive/Board ChangesRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Serco Group Announces Managerial Share Transactions
Neutral
Apr 9, 2025

Serco Group plc has announced changes in the share interests of its key managerial personnel due to vesting from the Long-Term Incentive Plan and the Deferred Bonus Plan granted in 2022. The transactions, which involve the sale of shares to cover tax liabilities, reflect the company’s adherence to regulatory requirements and demonstrate the financial management strategies of its leadership. This announcement may impact stakeholders by highlighting the company’s commitment to transparency and regulatory compliance.

Executive/Board ChangesBusiness Operations and Strategy
Serco Group Aligns Executive Incentives with Shareholder Interests
Positive
Apr 7, 2025

Serco Group plc announced changes in the interests of its managerial staff in the company’s ordinary shares, linked to the Deferred Bonus Plan and Long-Term Incentive Plan. The grants, made in early April 2025, involve significant share awards to key executives, reflecting Serco’s commitment to aligning management incentives with shareholder interests. This move is expected to reinforce the company’s strategic objectives and enhance its market positioning by ensuring that its leadership remains motivated and invested in the company’s success.

Executive/Board ChangesBusiness Operations and Strategy
Serco Group Announces Share Changes for CFO Under Bonus Plan
Neutral
Mar 31, 2025

Serco Group plc announced changes in share interests for its Group Chief Financial Officer, Nigel Crossley, under the Equity Settled Bonus Plan. The announcement includes the vesting of an award granted in 2022 and the grant of a new award in 2025, highlighting Serco’s commitment to aligning managerial interests with company performance. The transaction reflects Serco’s strategic focus on incentivizing its leadership to drive innovation and support its global government service operations.

Regulatory Filings and Compliance
Serco Group’s Managerial Share Transaction Announcement
Neutral
Mar 21, 2025

Serco Group plc announced a transaction involving the transfer of ordinary shares by David Eveleigh, Group General Counsel, to his spouse, Katharine Eveleigh. This transaction, valued at £654,302.95, was conducted outside a trading venue and is part of the company’s compliance with the UK Market Abuse Regulation. The announcement highlights the company’s adherence to regulatory requirements and transparency in managerial transactions.

Shareholder MeetingsFinancial DisclosuresRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Serco Group Releases 2024 Annual Report and 2025 AGM Notice
Neutral
Mar 20, 2025

Serco Group plc has released its 2024 Annual Report and Accounts along with the 2025 Notice of Annual General Meeting, now accessible on the company’s website and the UK Listing Authority’s National Storage Mechanism. This publication is a routine disclosure that provides stakeholders with insights into the company’s financial performance and strategic direction, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and regulatory compliance.

Business Operations and Strategy
Wellington Management Increases Stake in Serco Group
Neutral
Mar 17, 2025

Wellington Management International Ltd has increased its stake in Serco Group PLC, crossing the 5% threshold for voting rights attached to shares and financial instruments. This acquisition signifies a notable shift in the ownership structure of Serco, potentially impacting its governance and strategic direction, as Wellington Management is a significant investment management entity.

Business Operations and StrategyRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Wellington Management Adjusts Holdings in Serco Group PLC
Neutral
Mar 14, 2025

Wellington Management Group LLP has adjusted its holdings in Serco Group PLC, with a slight decrease in voting rights from 5.00% to 4.99%. This change reflects a minor shift in the financial instruments and voting rights held by Wellington, which could indicate strategic portfolio adjustments. The announcement may have implications for Serco’s shareholder dynamics but does not significantly alter the company’s market position.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.