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Spectris PLC (GB:SXS)
LSE:SXS
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Spectris (SXS) AI Stock Analysis

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GB:SXS

Spectris

(LSE:SXS)

Rating:63Neutral
Price Target:
4,442.00p
â–˛(10.17% Upside)
Spectris's overall stock score is driven by positive corporate events and a stable financial performance, despite technical indicators suggesting potential overvaluation and a high P/E ratio. The acceptance of a higher acquisition offer and strong interim results are significant positives, while the technical analysis indicates caution due to overbought conditions.
Positive Factors
Acquisition Offer
Spectris has announced that it has received an approach from Advent that the Board is minded to recommend to its shareholders.
Financial Performance
Spectris' FY24 Prelims are ahead of consensus forecasts, with the group ending the year better than expected.
Market Demand
Order intake in the fourth quarter showed a 6% increase, indicating signs of end-market demand recovery.
Negative Factors
Debt Levels
Net Debt was higher than forecasted, with a Net Debt to EBITDA ratio of 2.3x considered unhelpfully high.
Sales Performance
The current year has got off to a slow start, with -8% year-over-year organic constant currency sales declines.
Shareholder Frustration
Spectris is a good quality asset that has had a difficult time recently, has frustrated shareholders with downgrades and its M&A agenda.

Spectris (SXS) vs. iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (EWC)

Spectris Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionSpectris plc manufactures and sells measuring instruments and controls worldwide. It operates through Malvern Panalytical, HBK, Omega and Industrial Solutions segments. The Malvern Panalytical segment provides measurement and materials characterization and efficiency in R&D and manufacturing sectors. The HBK segment offers differentiated sensing, testing, modelling and simulation solutions for product development. The Omega segment provides process improvement, specialist sensors, and omni-channel distribution services. The Industrial Solutions segment operates high-value precision in-line sensing and monitors businesses. It also provides particle measuring systems, a solution to measure and monitor contamination levels in clean and controlled environments. In addition, the company offers red lion controls, an industrial automation tool that provides solutions to connect, monitor, and control disparate assets, as well as provides servomex, a specialist in gas and moisture analysis solutions. Further, it provides data and insights, test equipment and software for industrial applications. Additionally, the company offers sensor, instrument, software, and services technology, as well as provides training, technical support, spare parts, calibration, and maintenance services. It serves pharmaceutical, automotive, electronics, semiconductors, technology-LED, and primary and advanced materials industries. Spectris plc was incorporated in 1986 and is based in London, the United Kingdom.
How the Company Makes MoneySpectris generates revenue primarily through the sale of its specialized instrumentation and control products, as well as related services, such as software support and training. The company operates through multiple business segments, each catering to specific industry needs, which helps diversify its revenue streams. Key revenue streams include direct sales of measurement and control instruments, recurring revenues from software licenses and maintenance, and consulting services. Additionally, Spectris has established significant partnerships with industry leaders and research institutions, enhancing its market presence and enabling access to new customer segments, thereby contributing to its overall earnings.

Spectris Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Spectris exhibits a mixed financial performance with strong profitability margins and prudent leverage management. However, recent declines in revenue, EBIT, and cash flow generation raise concerns. Stabilizing revenue and enhancing operational efficiency are crucial for future growth.
Income Statement
70
Positive
Spectris shows a stable gross profit margin averaging around 54% over recent years, with a notable decrease in revenue and net income from 2023 to 2024. The net profit margin for 2024 increased to 17.96% from 10.03% in 2023, indicating improved profitability despite lower revenues. EBIT margin has been positive but shows a declining trend, requiring attention for sustainable future performance.
Balance Sheet
60
Neutral
The debt-to-equity ratio remains low, indicating prudent leverage management. However, the equity ratio has shown slight instability, reflecting some fluctuations in asset and equity levels. The return on equity in 2024 is 16.89%, which is relatively healthy, but the decline from previous years suggests potential efficiency issues.
Cash Flow
65
Positive
The cash flow analysis reveals a significant decline in operating cash flow from 2023 to 2024, impacting free cash flow negatively. Despite this, the operating cash flow to net income ratio remains above 1, signaling that cash generation covers net income adequately. The free cash flow to net income ratio shows a downward trend, indicating reduced free cash flow relative to net income.
BreakdownDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue1.30B1.45B1.33B1.16B1.34B
Gross Profit715.90M813.20M730.00M652.20M698.00M
EBITDA381.40M247.20M214.70M430.00M97.80M
Net Income233.20M145.40M125.00M346.90M-17.00M
Balance Sheet
Total Assets2.56B1.82B1.95B1.77B1.80B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments105.70M138.50M228.10M167.80M222.20M
Total Debt731.40M62.70M65.20M65.90M156.50M
Total Liabilities1.18B501.80M511.10M506.80M576.50M
Stockholders Equity1.38B1.32B1.44B1.26B1.22B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow41.50M170.50M75.60M121.20M178.40M
Operating Cash Flow93.20M195.20M120.50M156.50M221.50M
Investing Cash Flow-548.00M-70.20M216.30M201.30M-44.30M
Financing Cash Flow439.10M-210.70M-286.40M-394.60M-180.10M

Spectris Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price4032.00
Price Trends
50DMA
3719.72
Positive
100DMA
2894.55
Positive
200DMA
2743.79
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
107.27
Positive
RSI
61.47
Neutral
STOCH
51.00
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For GB:SXS, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 4032 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 4026.10, above the 50-day MA of 3719.72, and above the 200-day MA of 2743.79, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 107.27 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 61.47 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 51.00 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for GB:SXS.

Spectris Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (50)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
74
Outperform
ÂŁ2.14B21.9011.07%1.90%4.71%0.43%
69
Neutral
ÂŁ636.18M25.968.07%1.92%-3.23%58.34%
63
Neutral
ÂŁ4.00B68.974.26%1.83%0.07%-78.33%
57
Neutral
ÂŁ152.39M27.994.79%2.34%1.74%359.50%
54
Neutral
ÂŁ393.62M37.7712.29%1.75%-1.84%9.56%
50
Neutral
C$3.52B1.80-5.03%7.64%16.86%-2.92%
46
Neutral
£161.14M―-22.95%5.65%-15.12%-690.29%
* Technology Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
GB:SXS
Spectris
4,032.00
1,227.02
43.74%
GB:GHH
Gooch & Housego
564.00
100.48
21.68%
GB:JDG
Judges Scientific
5,820.00
-4,203.43
-41.94%
GB:RSW
Renishaw
3,035.00
-405.35
-11.78%
GB:TTG
TT Electronics
91.10
-57.50
-38.69%
GB:DSCV
discoverIE Group plc
665.00
38.69
6.18%

Spectris Corporate Events

M&A TransactionsShareholder Meetings
Spectris Opts for Higher KKR Bid, Rejects Final Advent Offer
Positive
Aug 8, 2025

Spectris, a company involved in a series of acquisition offers, has seen a significant development in its acquisition process. Initially, Spectris was set to be acquired by MI Metron UK Bidco Ltd for £37.63 per share, but later received a higher offer from KKR Bidco at £40.00 per share. Subsequently, MI Metron UK Bidco Ltd increased their offer to £41.00 per share, which was then surpassed by KKR Bidco’s final offer of £41.75 per share. Spectris has decided not to proceed with the MI Metron UK Bidco Ltd offer, and the shareholder meetings for the KKR Bidco offer are scheduled for 27 August 2025. This decision marks a pivotal moment for Spectris, as it aligns with the higher value offer, potentially impacting its market position and shareholder value.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £3135.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Spectris Announces Share Acquisition and Award under SIP
Neutral
Aug 8, 2025

Spectris plc, a company involved in the acquisition and management of shares, has announced the acquisition of Partnership Shares and the awarding of Matching Shares under its Share Incentive Plan (SIP). This notification, made under the EU Market Abuse Regulation, involves key managerial personnel acquiring shares, with the transaction conducted on the London Stock Exchange. The SIP allows employees to purchase shares using salary contributions, with the company providing additional shares at no cost, enhancing employee investment in the company.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £31.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

DividendsFinancial Disclosures
Spectris Announces 2025 Interim Dividend
Positive
Aug 7, 2025

Spectris plc has announced an interim dividend of 28p per share as part of its 2025 half-year results. The dividend will be paid on 7 November 2025, with the ex-dividend date set for 2 October 2025 and the record date on 3 October 2025. This announcement reflects Spectris’s ongoing commitment to returning value to its shareholders, potentially enhancing its market positioning and stakeholder confidence.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £3135.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

M&A TransactionsFinancial Disclosures
Spectris Reports Strong H1 2025 Results and Announces KKR Acquisition
Positive
Aug 7, 2025

Spectris plc reported a robust first half of 2025, with significant sales and order growth, particularly in the second quarter. The company achieved £10 million in savings from its Profit Improvement Programme, expecting over £30 million for the full year. Spectris also announced a recommended cash acquisition by KKR Bidco at £41.75 per share, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals, positioning the company for sustained success and improved leverage by the end of 2025.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £3135.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Regulatory Filings and Compliance
Spectris Updates Total Voting Rights and Capital
Neutral
Aug 1, 2025

Spectris plc, a company involved in the field of precision instrumentation and controls, has announced an update regarding its total voting rights and capital as of July 31, 2025. The company has issued 104,446,214 ordinary shares with voting rights, with 5,123,904 shares held in treasury, resulting in a total of 99,322,310 voting rights. This information is crucial for shareholders to determine their notification requirements under the FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £3135.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

M&A TransactionsBusiness Operations and Strategy
Spectris PLC Announces Cash Acquisition by Project Aurora Bidco Limited
Neutral
Jul 29, 2025

Spectris PLC has announced a recommended cash acquisition by Project Aurora Bidco Limited, a special purpose vehicle owned by funds advised by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P. The acquisition will be executed through a Court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement, with the Scheme Document now published and available to shareholders. The acquisition is expected to impact Spectris’ market presence and operations significantly, with the Scheme requiring approval from various regulatory authorities across multiple jurisdictions. The Spectris Directors, advised by financial institutions, consider the acquisition terms fair and recommend shareholders vote in favor of the Scheme.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £4190.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Spectris PLC Announces Change in Voting Rights Structure
Neutral
Jul 22, 2025

Spectris PLC has announced a change in its voting rights structure due to an acquisition or disposal of voting rights by JPMorgan Chase & Co. As of July 18, 2025, JPMorgan’s holdings in Spectris have fallen below the minimum threshold, indicating a reduction in their influence over the company’s voting decisions. This development may impact Spectris’s shareholder dynamics and could influence future strategic decisions.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £4190.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Spectris PLC Announces Change in Major Holdings
Neutral
Jul 21, 2025

Spectris PLC, a UK-based company, has announced a change in its major holdings as JPMorgan Chase & Co. has acquired or disposed of voting rights, crossing a threshold on July 17, 2025. The acquisition involves a total of 5.062947% of voting rights, with 4.249473% attached to shares and 0.813474% through financial instruments. This change in holdings could influence Spectris’ shareholder dynamics and potentially impact its market strategy.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £4190.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and Strategy
Spectris Announces Share Incentive Plan Transactions
Neutral
Jul 8, 2025

Spectris plc, a company involved in the acquisition and award of shares under its Share Incentive Plan (SIP), recently announced the purchase of Partnership Shares and the awarding of Matching Shares to its managerial staff. On July 7, 2025, a total of 12 ordinary shares were purchased for the company’s PDMRs, with an additional 2 shares awarded as Matching Shares. This move is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to align the interests of its employees with those of its shareholders, potentially enhancing employee engagement and retention.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £4190.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyRegulatory Filings and Compliance
BlackRock Increases Stake in Spectris PLC
Neutral
Jul 3, 2025

Spectris PLC, a UK-based company, has reported a change in major holdings due to an acquisition or disposal of financial instruments by BlackRock, Inc., a global investment management corporation. BlackRock’s total voting rights in Spectris have increased to 5.23%, surpassing the previous threshold of below 5%. This change reflects BlackRock’s strategic position in Spectris, potentially affecting the company’s market dynamics and stakeholder interests.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £4435.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

DividendsBusiness Operations and Strategy
Spectris Director Acquires Shares via Dividend Reinvestment
Neutral
Jul 2, 2025

Spectris plc, a company involved in the acquisition of shares, announced that its Non-Executive Director, Alison Henwood, acquired 14 ordinary shares through the company’s dividend reinvestment plan. This transaction, conducted on the London Stock Exchange, reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to shareholder engagement and financial management strategies.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £4435.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Regulatory Filings and Compliance
Spectris Updates Market on Voting Rights and Capital Structure
Neutral
Jul 1, 2025

Spectris plc, a company involved in the manufacturing sector, has updated the market regarding its voting rights and capital structure as of June 30, 2025. The company announced that its issued share capital consists of 104,446,214 ordinary shares with voting rights, with 5,138,334 shares held in treasury, resulting in a total of 99,307,880 voting rights. This information is crucial for shareholders to determine their interest in the company under the FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £4435.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

DividendsBusiness Operations and Strategy
Spectris Enhances Stakeholder Alignment with Share Acquisition
Positive
Jun 30, 2025

Spectris plc announced the acquisition of dividend shares under its Share Incentive Plan (SIP) by key managerial personnel. This move, involving the reinvestment of dividends into ordinary shares, reflects the company’s commitment to aligning management interests with shareholder value, potentially strengthening its market position and stakeholder confidence.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £4435.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Other
Wellington Management Reduces Stake in Spectris PLC
Neutral
Jun 17, 2025

Wellington Management International Ltd has reduced its voting rights in Spectris PLC to below the 5% threshold, as of June 16, 2025. This change in holdings may impact Spectris’s shareholder dynamics and influence its market positioning, as Wellington Management is a significant investment management entity.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £3135.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Wellington Management Reduces Stake in Spectris PLC
Neutral
Jun 17, 2025

Wellington Management Group LLP has reduced its voting rights in Spectris PLC from 5.07% to 4.3%, crossing below the 5% threshold. This change in holdings, reported on June 17, 2025, may impact Spectris’s shareholder dynamics and reflects a strategic decision by Wellington Management, a significant player in investment management.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £3135.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Regulatory Filings and Compliance
Spectris PLC Announces Change in Voting Rights Structure
Neutral
Jun 17, 2025

Spectris PLC, a company involved in the acquisition and disposal of voting rights and financial instruments, has announced a change in its voting rights structure. Lancaster Investment Management LLP has adjusted its holdings in Spectris, resulting in a decrease in their total voting rights from 3.022% to 2.624%. This adjustment may impact Spectris’ shareholder dynamics and influence its decision-making processes.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £3135.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

M&A Transactions
Spectris Faces Acquisition Interest from KKR and Advent
Neutral
Jun 13, 2025

Spectris has received a preliminary and conditional proposal from KKR for a possible cash offer for its entire issued share capital, which the Board has rejected. The company is also in discussions with Advent International regarding a potential cash offer, highlighting ongoing interest in its acquisition, which could impact its market positioning and stakeholder interests.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £3135.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Business Operations and StrategyRegulatory Filings and Compliance
Spectris Announces Share Acquisition and Award for PDMRs
Neutral
Jun 10, 2025

Spectris plc announced the acquisition and award of shares under its Share Incentive Plan (SIP) for persons discharging managerial responsibilities. On June 6, 2025, a total of 21 ordinary shares were purchased as Partnership Shares, and 5 Matching Shares were awarded to the company’s PDMRs at no cost. This transaction, conducted on the London Stock Exchange, highlights Spectris’s commitment to employee investment and aligns with EU Market Abuse Regulations.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £3135.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

M&A TransactionsDividends
Spectris Considers Advent’s Conditional Cash Offer
Neutral
Jun 9, 2025

Spectris plc has received a conditional proposal from Advent International Limited for a possible cash offer for its entire issued and to be issued ordinary share capital at £37.63 per share. The proposal includes a cash consideration and a proposed interim dividend, subject to board approval. The Spectris board is considering the proposal and is in discussions with Advent, with a deadline set for Advent to announce a firm intention by July 7, 2025. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact Spectris’ market positioning and shareholder value.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £4435.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Regulatory Filings and Compliance
Spectris plc Updates Market on Voting Rights and Share Capital
Neutral
Jun 2, 2025

Spectris plc, a company involved in the engineering and technology sector, has announced an update on its total voting rights and share capital. As of May 31, 2025, Spectris plc’s issued share capital consists of 104,446,214 ordinary shares with voting rights, with 5,222,615 shares held in treasury, resulting in a total of 99,223,599 voting rights. This information is crucial for shareholders to determine their notification requirements under the FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £4435.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

Executive/Board ChangesShareholder MeetingsStock BuybackBusiness Operations and Strategy
Spectris plc Announces Unanimous Approval of AGM Resolutions
Positive
May 22, 2025

At the 2025 Annual General Meeting of Spectris plc, all proposed resolutions were approved by shareholders, including the election and re-election of several directors and the approval of the Directors’ Remuneration Report and Policy. The meeting also authorized the company to purchase its own shares and adopt new Articles of Association, reflecting a strong shareholder support for the company’s strategic decisions. These outcomes reinforce Spectris’s commitment to maintaining robust governance and operational strategies, which are crucial for its continued growth and industry leadership.

The most recent analyst rating on (GB:SXS) stock is a Buy with a £4435.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Spectris stock, see the GB:SXS Stock Forecast page.

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.Date of analysis: Aug 09, 2025