Positive trading, discount-to-NAV being addressed

In its AGM statement of 26 Sep 24, Mercia has confirmed that trading has been positive to date in FY25 (1 Apr 24 – 31 Mar 25), it is encouraged by current deal pipelines, and it is “optimistic for continuing profitable progress” in H2. We remind readers that Mercia is scaling rapidly, with FUM more than doubling over two years to >£1.6bn. This was boosted by record net inflows in FY24 of >£0.5bn, including a string of new mandates from British Business Bank.

Mercia has also confirmed a net cash position of over £43m (30% of its market cap), a few days before the end of H1-25. With no debt, its balance sheet remains exceptionally strong. With our fair value of 51p, we maintain our position that there is potential for a significant share-price rerating.