Experian (LSE:EXPN) shares jumped 7% to new all-time highs after the credit checking agency's growth topped analyst expectations and guidance confirmed more of the same for the current year.
Growth improved as the year progressed, with organic growth reaching 8% in the fourth quarter, resulting in 6% for the full year ended 31 March. The City consensus was for 5.5% organic growth.
Total revenue from ongoing activities came in at $7.06 billion, up 8% on the previous year or 7% at constant exchange rates.
Underlying profit (EBIT) rose 7% to $1.93 billion, versus analyst estimates of $1.94 billion. Statutory profit before before tax swelled 32% to $1.55 billion.
Chief executive Brian Cassin said the numbers were at the top end of expectations.
For the new financial year, he said the board expect "further strategic progress" and expects organic revenue growth in the range of 6-8% with profit margins also expanding.
"Looking further ahead, we expect the combination of economic recovery, continued new product and vertical market expansion as well as productivity gains from technology cloud transition to elevate our financial performance. We anticipate strong organic revenue growth, good margin accretion and reduced levels of capital expenditure," Cassin said.