Bloomsbury Publishing's (LON:BMY) Dividend Will Be £0.0389

Bloomsbury Publishing Plc (LON:BMY), the leading independent publisher, has announced its audited results for the year ended 29 February 2024, revealing a significant increase in revenue and profit. The company's strong performance has led to a recommendation for a final dividend of £0.0389 per share, taking the full year dividend to £0.1469 per share, an increase of 25% year on year.

The company's revenue grew by 30% to £343m, driven by a 49% increase in consumer revenue and a 2% increase in Bloomsbury Digital Resources (BDR) revenue. The non-consumer division saw a slight decrease of 4% to £93.4m, but this was offset by the strong performance in the consumer and digital segments.

The increase in revenue and profit has been attributed to the company's entrepreneurial diversification strategy, which has forged a portfolio of portfolios combining consumer and academic publishing across formats, territories, and subject areas. This resilient model has delivered long-term success for the company.

The company's profit before taxation and highlighted items increased by 57% to £49m, reflecting the strong revenue growth and cost management initiatives. The adjusted diluted earnings per share increased by 53% to 46.62p, and the diluted earnings per share increased by 59% to 39.11p.

The company's net cash position increased by 28% to £65.8m, reflecting the strong cash generation and balance sheet. The company's progressive dividend policy has resulted in a final dividend of £0.0389 per share, taking the full year dividend to £0.1469 per share, an increase of 25% year on year.

The company's acquisition strategy has played a significant role in its growth and dividend policy. The acquisition of Rowman & Littlefield's academic publishing business has further strengthened the company's portfolio and is expected to contribute to future growth.

The company's future dividend policy will be influenced by its growth prospects and acquisition strategy. The company is well-positioned to capitalize on the continued structural shift to digital learning and the significant growth projections for higher education. The World Bank estimates that globally, there will be 380 million higher education students by 2030, up from 220 million students in 2021.

In conclusion, Bloomsbury Publishing Plc's strong performance has led to a significant increase in revenue and profit, resulting in a final dividend of £0.0389 per share. The company's entrepreneurial diversification strategy and acquisition strategy have contributed to its growth and dividend policy. The company is well-positioned to capitalize on future growth opportunities, and investors can expect continued dividend growth in the future.