Our opinion on the current state of STADIO(SDO)

Stadio (SDO) is a tertiary education institution that offers a wide range of post-school training. The company provides higher education through five universities, offering higher certificates, degrees, master's, and PhD qualifications. It currently has over 46,000 students enrolled in six faculties, offering more than 50 accredited training programs. Of these students, 86% study online. The company envisions having 100,000 students, with the majority expected to be distance learning students.

In its results for the year to 31st December 2023, the company reported revenue up 16% and headline earnings per share (HEPS) up 19%. The company's net asset value (NAV) increased by 1% to 212c per share. The company stated, "...despite a challenging economic environment, with good growth in student numbers for the year, specifically in new student numbers. The growth in EPS, HEPS, and CHEPS is due to an increase in student numbers, coupled with good cost controls and efficiencies."

In a business update at their AGM, the company reported that student numbers increased by 8% in the year to June 2024. This was comprised of 86% of students in distance learning and 14% in contact learning. In a trading statement for the six months to 30th June 2024, the company estimated that core HEPS would increase by between 14% and 24.3%.

We believe that Stadio has a great future, given the general ineffectiveness of government tertiary education in South Africa. At current prices, and following their results, Stadio has been in a strong upward trend. We are bullish on its prospects.