Broadridge(US:BR)2025-11-04 14:30Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Broadridge reported strong first-quarter results with an 8% growth in recurring revenue on a constant currency basis and a 51% increase in adjusted EPS [5][22][29] - Total revenue increased by 12% to $1.6 billion, driven by recurring revenue growth and higher event-driven revenue [27][29] - Adjusted operating income margin expanded by 280 basis points to 15.8% [29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Governance business revenues rose by 5%, driven by sales and healthy position growth [6][22] - Capital markets revenues grew by 6%, supported by new sales and higher trading volumes [12][24] - Wealth and investment management revenues surged by 22%, aided by solid organic growth and the acquisition of SIS [16][25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total equity position growth was 12%, with managed accounts driving this increase [7][26] - Fund position growth was 2%, impacted by the timing of communications, but mid-single-digit growth is expected for the full year [6][26] - Trade volumes rose by 17% for the quarter, indicating strong activity in both equity and fixed income markets [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Broadridge is focused on democratizing and digitizing investing, simplifying trading, and modernizing wealth management [5][18] - The company is investing in new governance solutions, expanding tokenization capabilities, and pursuing value-added acquisitions [5][18] - Tokenization is viewed as a mega trend over the next decade, with potential benefits across various asset classes [13][19] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving the higher end of the 5%-7% recurring revenue growth range and reaffirmed guidance for 8%-12% adjusted EPS growth [5][21][33] - The positive economic backdrop and healthy capital markets are expected to support continued growth [4][5] - Management highlighted the importance of innovation in driving long-term growth and position expansion [18][45] Other Important Information - Broadridge completed two tuck-in acquisitions in the first quarter to strengthen its governance business [11][20] - The company recorded a $46 million unrealized gain on digital asset holdings, which was excluded from adjusted EPS calculations [21][30] - Free cash flow generated in the first quarter was $13 million, with expectations of over 100% free cash flow conversion for fiscal 2026 [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Recurring revenue outlook and EPS guidance - Management explained that the recurring revenue guidance was raised due to acquisitions and strong underlying business performance, while EPS growth is expected to remain within the 8%-12% range due to various factors [35][37] Question: Impact of government shutdown on sales cycles - Management indicated that there has been no slowdown in client conversations or deal closures due to the government shutdown, maintaining a stable selling environment [42] Question: Role of digital assets and tokenization in the business - Management sees digital assets and tokenization as a significant opportunity, with plans to drive tokenization across various asset classes [45][46] Question: Position growth trends - Management reported strong position growth in equities and funds, with expectations for continued strength throughout the year [50][51] Question: Impact of Canton Coins on revenue and GAAP volatility - Management acknowledged potential GAAP volatility from Canton Coin holdings but emphasized the company's focus on operational activities rather than investment [40][53]