YouGov performs well in H1, FY earnings seen 'slightly ahead' of expectations

Research and data analytics group YouGov said on Friday that it had "performed well" during the six months ended 31 January, with continued growth seen across all divisions and geographies.

YouGov stated its performance was largely driven by custom tracking work, benefitting from a strong sales pipeline, and its data products division, with momentum in newer products and a renewed focus on subscription sales leading to "solid results".

The AIM-listed firm noted that the transformation of its sales structure over the past year had continued to result in "larger and more strategic" client wins. Geographically, YouGov said the US and Mainland Europe remained its "key growth drivers".

As a result of its strong first-half performance, YouGov now expects full-year results to be slightly ahead of internal expectations.

"The sales pipeline remains robust giving us continued momentum into the second half of the financial year. Consequently, the board remains confident of achieving top-line growth for the full year in line with the current long-term strategic growth plan, with modest margin expansion due to continued investment in the business," said YouGov.

As of 1015 GMT, YouGov shares were up 1.24% at 1,245.20p.