Experian launches $1 billion buyback, forecasts annual organic revenue growth (updated)
20/05/2026 07:49
Experian forecasts 6%-8% organic revenue growth for 2027 CEO cites economic uncertainty, interest rates hike risks AI boosts coding productivity, Experian says Updates with outlook, share move in paragraph 2, CEO comments in paragraphs 4-5 By Simone Lobo May 20 (Reuters) - Experian EXPN.L forecast organic revenue growth slightly below expectations for fiscal 2027 on Wednesday, as the credit and data analytics firm took a cautious approach in the face of Iran-war-related uncertainty and potential interest-rate hikes. Shares in Experian, which provides credit checks, mortgage inquiries and fraud screenings, fell as much as 7.1% as it said an uncertain interest-rate outlook and economic volatility could make customers more cautious. It forecast organic revenue growth of 6% to 8% for the year ending March 31, 2027, marginally below analysts' range between 6.3% and 9.8%, according to a company-compiled poll. "We don't see any material improvements; we don't see any material deterioration either at the same time," CEO Brian Cassin told analysts about the 2027 outlook. However, Cassin noted an increase in caution among clients in segments, such as credit cards. Experian, which operates in North America, the UK and Ireland and Latin America, reported benchmark operating profit rose 15% to $2.40 billion in fiscal 2026, driven by steady contract renewals from major clients. The company also announced a $1 billion share buyback programme. REASSURANCE ON AI DISRUPTION FEARS Experian shares have fallen 19.4% so far this year, as investors have become increasingly concerned over AI's ability to perform data analysis tasks. However, Experian highlighted the technology's positive impact, saying that AI has increased coding productivity by 10% to 15% in fiscal year 2026 across its operations. "The statement is on the front foot in articulating the benefits AI is bringing to EXPN’s business from both a revenue and cost perspective," JPMorgan analyst Jane Sparrow said in a note. "We expect this to be a recurring theme in future quarters as management look to reassure AI-related nervousness," she said. (Reporting by Simone Lobo in Bengaluru; Editing by Janane Venkatraman and Sherry Jacob-Phillips) ((Simone.Lobo@thomsonreuters.com, +919920570373))