Experian PLC (LSE:EXPN) hiked its first interim dividend 10% and raised its full-year outlook to the top of previous guidance after enjoying broad-based revenue growth and margin expansion in the first half of its financial year.
The personal credit data company reported total revenue from ongoing activities of US$4.06 billion for the six months ended 30 September, up 13% compared to a year earlier, or 12% at constant exchange rates and 8% on an organic growth basis.
Underlying profits (EBIT) increased 14% to US$1.15 billion, with margin up 50 basis points on a constant currency basis.
Consumer Services revenue rose 9% organically, helped by an expanding customer base which now includes over 208 million free members. The business-to-business segment saw 8% organic growth, driven by data, analytics, and mortgage-related services.
All regions posted organic revenue growth, with North America up 10%, Latin America up 4%, UK and Ireland up 1%, and EMEA and Asia Pacific up 6%.
Chief executive Brian Cassin said the business "continued to build momentum" as product platforms were enhanced and AI automation and personalisation were used to "transform" customer experiences and internal processes.
Earnings per share rose 12% to $0.85, while statutory EPS increased 36% to $0.817. The interim dividend was lifted to 21.25 cents per share, from 19.25 cents a year ago.
Experian also raised its full-year outlook to 11% total revenue growth and 8% organic growth, both at the top end of its prior range, with further margin improvement expected.
The shares, which hit an all-time high just over 4,100p in July, fell 1.15% to 3,439p in early trading on Wednesday.
Broker Panmure Liberum said the results were "slightly ahead of our top end and a tight range of sell side estimates" and that the raising of organic growth guidance "will drive small upgrades for the full year".