Investing.com -- Shares of Icade SA (EPA:ICAD) tumbled 8% today after the company reported a decline in its Net Current Cash Flow (NCCF) and faced uncertainties regarding the disposal of Icade Santé.
Despite posting better-than-expected NCCF figures for the 2024-2025 outlook, the company is experiencing increasing pressures on its office fundamentals, with occupancy rates falling below 85% and appraisals decreasing by 7% on a like-for-like basis.
Icade reported a group NCCF of €3.98 per share, down 13.9% YoY, yet still above its guidance range. The core NCCF, excluding the Healthcare business, was reported at €2.94 per share, surpassing the company’s guidance.
However, the proposed cash dividend per share (DPS) for 2024 stands at €4.31, and came in 5% lower than the consensus. This reduction comes after adjusting for the €2.54 exceptional dividend, with the recurring payout ratio cut to 60% from 75% in 2023.
The lack of progress in the completion of Icade Santé’s disposal has raised concerns, as it appears that options held by Præmia REIM to acquire Icade’s remaining stake will expire in mid-2025. This situation contributed to S&P’s decision last November to downgrade Icade’s credit rating from BBB+ to BBB, albeit with a stable outlook.
For 2025, Icade is targeting an NCCF between €3.40 and €3.60 per share, indicating a potential decline of 9.5% to 14.6% YoY. This forecast is still above current estimates, thanks to a better-than-expected target range on Core NCCF.
Jefferies analysts commented on the situation, stating, "The lack of progress in Icade Santé disposal led to an S&P downgrade while the trough in the core NCCF is yet to be seen."
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