GlobalData warns annual EBITDA will miss expectations as investment rises

GlobalData ($DATA) expects full-year revenue near the lower end of the £325.3–335.7 million consensus range and adjusted EBITDA below market expectations of £121–126.7 million. Increased spending on AI, data and sales capacity is weighing on margins, which management expects to remain around first-half levels. The outlook tempers an otherwise growing reported revenue and earnings base.

First-half revenue rose 4% to £162.9 million, although underlying growth was only 1%. Adjusted EBITDA increased 5% to £54.8 million, giving a margin of about 34%, while pre-tax profit fell 6% to £23.2 million as financing costs increased. The release therefore combines modest underlying expansion with a lower annual profit outlook, rather than evidence that the investment program has already accelerated organic growth.

Sources:

• GlobalData — half-year results and outlook