Spotlight on S&U: Anthony Coombs explains why it likes "people on the way up"
S&U chair Anthony Coombs explains how the used car and bridging loan markets are faring as interest rates rise
Company
LON:SUS
S&U PLC is the UK's foremost specialist motor finance & bridging lender. The company has provided credit services since 1938 and has been listed on the London Stock Exchange since 1961. Since this time, it has delivered consistent and sustainable profit growth and its seasoned management team has an unparalleled understanding of how to deliver value to all of its stakeholders, from customers through to investors.
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S&U chair Anthony Coombs explains how the used car and bridging loan markets are faring as interest rates rise
“Whilst rightly more cautious in a less promising economic climate, S&U is equipped with the ambition, experience and determination to prosper,” said chairman Anthony Coombs
“Economic deterioration may exert future pressure on operating expenses, impairment and finance costs but the top line performance is tracking ahead of our estimates and the good momentum highlights the attractive valuation of the shares,”
The finance group said receivables had increased £30mln to £370mln since its last update
The used-car market which Advantage Finance serves remains supply-constrained so values remain strong, which has contributed to sales volumes growing steadily at the motor finance arm
The current trends in both of its businesses remain very encouraging with current new loans this financial year already beating budget, S&U revealed
Specialist lenders Funding Circle Holdings PLC and Secure Trust Bank PLC were initiated with “buy” ratings at Berenberg, while S&U PLC was given a “hold” recommendation, with the analysts noting growth prospects for the three companies.
A year in which used car prices actually went up and house sale activity was boosted by the largesse of the government created highly beneficial conditions for the lender
Growth is accelerating in both businesses despite a relative lack of used car supply and a quieter housing transaction market
“As the legacy of Covid gradually fades and brightening skies appear, S&U is robustly back on track and driving forward to our usual standard of profitable, sustainable growth”
“The challenge now is to grasp these opportunities for new growth. I am confident that we will do so," said chairman Anthony Coombs