Deutsche Bank cuts Manchester United stock target to $16 from $20.30

  • Investing.com
  • Stock Market News
Deutsche Bank cuts Manchester United stock target to $16 from $20.30
Credit: © Reuters.

On Wednesday, Deutsche Bank (ETR: DBKGn ) adjusted its outlook on Manchester United (NYSE: MANU ), reducing the soccer club's price target from $20.30 to $16, while maintaining a Hold rating on the shares. The bank's analyst cited a mix of achievements and challenges in Manchester United's recent performance, including solid second-quarter results and the reaffirmation of revenue and Ebitda guidance.

Despite achieving record revenues through their Champions League participation, the team's early elimination from the competition and overall disappointing on-field performance were noted as concerns.

The club is currently navigating a period of uncertainty, with a new CEO set to begin in July and rumors of a potential managerial change that could necessitate increased investment in players. These factors are compounded by Financial Fair Play restrictions.

Moreover, the entry of Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos as a strategic investor has introduced the possibility of significant changes at Manchester United. Ineos has initiated a task force to explore development opportunities for the Old Trafford stadium and the local area, which may involve an investment of £1 billion to £2 billion over the next three to five years, partially supported by public/private partnerships.

Financially, Manchester United is expected to face a more challenging second half of the year, as it will incur Champions League-level wages without the corresponding revenues. The club's final Premier League standing could also impact profits, with each additional league position worth over £2.2 million in prize money. Currently in sixth place, this adds an element of unpredictability to their financial outcomes.

Deutsche Bank has revised its forecasts, with projected FY24 Ebitda decreasing from £641.5 million to £638.9 million. The adjustment in the target price reflects the completion of Ineos's tender offer, which saw the acquisition of a 25% stake in Manchester United's B shares at $33 each. The new target price implies a 3.6x FY24E EV/Sales ratio, which is above the valuation of other European clubs but justified by Manchester United's global brand presence.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

Drop an image here or Supported formats: *.jpg, *.png, *.gif up to 5mb

Error: File type not supported

Drop an image here or

100

Related Articles