LSEG Reports Strong H1 Growth, Launches £1B Buyback

The London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) reported a robust financial performance for the first half of 2025, with a 20.1% increase in adjusted earnings per share and a marked improvement in profit margins. The group has also announced plans for a new £1 billion share buyback in the second half of the year, following a £500 million buyback already executed in H1.

CEO David Schwimmer attributed the results to strong performances across all business segments and the benefits of operational transformation. "We have built a business which is strategically aligned to a number of powerful growth drivers," he stated, citing growing demand for data, digitisation of financial markets, and increased risk management needs.

LSEG upgraded its 2025 margin guidance to an increase of 75 to 100 basis points, compared to the previous range of 50 to 100. The group's adjusted EBITDA margin rose to 49.5%, up 100 basis points, supported by a 10.9% rise in EBITDA and strong cash generation.

Divisional results showed consistent growth: Risk Intelligence rose 12.2%, Markets climbed 10.7%, and FTSE Russell advanced 7.6%. Free cash flow reached £935 million, a 43.6% increase year-on-year, driven by lower capital intensity and agile debt management.

In addition to returning capital to shareholders, the company confirmed it continues to evaluate inorganic growth opportunities.