Investing.com -- Canal+ has reported its first financial results since its December spin-off from Vivendi (OTC:VIVHY), delivering a performance that exceeded analysts’ expectations. The company’s stock responded positively, rising over 2% on Tuesday.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, Canal+ reported a 3.4% increase in like-for-like revenue, surpassing forecasts by 5%.
This growth was primarily driven by the Content Production & Distribution segment, which benefited from successful new movie releases.
However, the pay-TV divisions showed mixed results, with the European sector meeting expectations and the Africa & Asia sector falling short by 4%.
After adjusting for exceptional items, the company’s full-year underlying EBITA reached €503 million, 4% above expectations.
This positive outcome was attributed to stronger-than-anticipated profitability in Europe and the Content Production & Distribution segment, despite some softness in the Africa & Asia markets. Additionally, Canal+ proposed an unexpected €0.02 dividend, reflecting a modest 1% yield.
A major highlight was the cash flow from operations, which amounted to €218 million, substantially higher than the anticipated €53 million. This improvement was due to the non-occurrence of expected outflows related to ongoing VAT litigations.
Canal+ is aiming for a €100 million boost in cash flow by 2025. Despite revenue hits from dropping the C8 channel and losing the Disney+ deal, these moves will increase profits.
Ending the expensive Ligue 1 football contract will further improve profitability. They’ve also locked in a favorable film release window with French cinemas, while cutting their investment in French films by €50 million to €160 million annually.
BofA Securities is optimistic about Canal+’s future. They believe strong cash flow and clear post-MultiChoice financials could boost the stock price in 2025.
After Canal+’s better-than-expected 2024 earnings, BofA increased its 2025-26 profit estimates by 1-2%, but kept the price target the same, factoring in a reduced MultiChoice (JO:MCGJ) stake value.