Spire Healthcare Group Plc (LSE:SPI) shares surged 15% after the private hospital group confirmed it is exploring strategic options, including a potential sale.
Panmure Liberum kept its 'buy' rating and 285p target, saying the move reflects frustration that the company’s steady growth has not been recognised in its share price.
Analysts said there are two main routes to value creation. The first is unlocking part of the £1.4 billion property portfolio through a sale-and-leaseback deal.
The second is an outright sale of the company, though Panmure cautioned that while bid speculation has swirled around Spire for years, obvious buyers are limited.
The broker noted that a past 300p offer was rejected by shareholders, while a 30% premium to its target price would imply a 370p takeout.
It added that Spire’s property value “isn’t hidden” but said putting the business “in the shop window” may yet attract interest.
The shares rose 33.5p to 250p.