mutares increased its revenues and operative earnings in the first quarter

The Munich-based mutares Group (ISIN: DE000A0SMSH2) increased its revenues to EUR 169.9m and its operative earnings significantly to EUR 4.2m in the first quarter. With dynamic M&A activities in the coming months, the management expects 2015 to be another record year.

In Q1 2015, mutares increased its consolidated revenues by 4.4% to EUR 169.9m (Q1 2014: EUR 162.7m). Primary drivers were the consolidation of A+F and a very successful quarter of EUPEC. The consolidated operative earnings (EBITDA) increased considerably to EUR 4.2m from a break even level in the prior year. The positive development reflects the successful restructuring of mutares’ portfolio companies.

Currently, the market for companies in special situations shows extraordinary dynamics. The transaction pipeline of mutares is very attractively filled. Hence, intensified acquisition activities can be expected over the coming months. The management foresees 2015 to be another record year. It will be an important milestone on the way to reach the revenue target of EUR 1.8bn by 2018. The strengthening of the M&A activities in France by opening the Paris office, the successful exit of CGVL, and the acquisition of Metsä Board Zanders underline the ambitious objectives of mutares in 2015.

For the record year 2014, the management will propose to the AGM on May 22, 2015, to approve the payment of a dividend of EUR 4.70 per share. At present, this corresponds to a dividend yield of almost five per cent. The analysts of Hauck & Aufhäuser Research recommend the share of mutares as a Buy with a price target of EUR 125.