Lion Finance Group: lion takes a breather (downgraded to HOLD)
We have downgraded Lion Finance Group (BGEO) to HOLD, with a new price target (PT) of GBP 79.4. BGEO trades at 5.8x 2025E P/E and 1.5x P/TBV, which we see as fair, following a 114% USD return over the last 12M, and 566% over the past three years. After such a good earnings cycle, which leveraged on a superb macro backdrop, we see limited upside risk on our EPS forecasts and assumptions for the group’s long-term earnings power (ROTEs of 27% for Georgia and 22% for Armenia). We calculate that most valuation scenarios yielding >15% upside (our threshold for a BUY rating) would need a >2.0x fair 2025E P/TBV for Georgia. This would require an aggressive 29% or higher sustainable ROTE, which we do not believe is a prudent base case.
WOOD & Company is the leading investment bank in Emerging Europe. Founded in 1991 and head-quartered in Prague, our footprint spans the region and touches investors around the globe.
A pioneer in Emerging Europe, WOOD executed many of the first CEE equity trades and landmark investment banking transactions. Our electronic trading platform was the first in the region, and remains the best. We are continually expanding our relevance and reach in these ever-evolving markets.
Our equity market share reflects our stature: 7% in Warsaw, 20% in Bucharest, 16% in Hungary, 40% in Prague and 5% in Vienna. Our distribution is unparalleled, with the largest salesforce in the region, servicing a uniquely diverse investor base.
We couple local expertise with a truly international perspective. With offices on the ground in the region, and in key financial hubs such as London and Milano, we are never far from our clients and we remain at the forefront of what’s afoot in the CEE emerging and frontier landscape.
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