Schibsted ASA: A Strategic Expansion and Financial Overview

In the dynamic world of media and communication services, Schibsted ASA has been making headlines with strategic moves and financial updates that are shaping its future. As a leading company in Europe, Schibsted ASA, through its subsidiaries, offers a wide range of online classified services and operates media houses with both print and online positions. Here’s a closer look at the recent developments and financial performance of the company.

Strategic Acquisition: Prisjakt

On May 6, 2025, Schibsted ASA announced a significant move in its e-commerce strategy. The company signed an agreement with eEquity to acquire Prisjakt Sverige AB, a prominent e-commerce price comparison service. This acquisition is expected to bolster Schibsted’s market presence in the competitive e-commerce landscape, enhancing its portfolio of online services and providing a strategic advantage in the digital marketplace.

Financial Performance: A Mixed Bag

As Schibsted ASA prepares to release its quarterly financial results on May 7, 2025, the market is keenly watching. The company is expected to report an EPS of 0.580 NOK per share for the quarter ending March 31, 2025, according to analysts’ forecasts. This anticipation comes amidst a backdrop of mixed financial results in the first quarter of 2025.

The company reported a first-quarter loss from continuing operations of 2.29 billion Norwegian Kroner, a significant increase from the previous year’s loss of 114 million Norwegian Kroner. This resulted in a loss per share of 9.94 kroner, compared to 3.50 kroner the previous year. Despite the reported loss, Schibsted’s EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) showed a positive trend, rising 18% as the company gears up for its ‘Vend’ rebrand. The EBITDA for the first quarter was reported at 394 million Norwegian Kroner, surpassing the expected 340 million Norwegian Kroner.

Operational Highlights

Schibsted Marketplaces, a key subsidiary, reported a mixed performance in the first quarter. While the revenue saw a modest increase of 5.2% to 2,015 million Norwegian Kroner, the operational profit, or EBITDA, exceeded expectations, indicating efficient cost management and operational improvements. This performance underscores Schibsted’s strategic focus on enhancing its core business areas and optimizing its operations for better financial health.

Looking Ahead

As Schibsted ASA navigates through the challenges and opportunities in the media and communication services sector, its strategic acquisitions and focus on operational efficiency are pivotal. The acquisition of Prisjakt and the positive EBITDA growth amidst a challenging financial quarter reflect the company’s resilience and strategic foresight. With the upcoming financial results release, stakeholders are eager to see how Schibsted will continue to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

In summary, Schibsted ASA’s recent strategic and financial developments highlight its commitment to growth and adaptation in the competitive media and communication services industry. As the company moves forward, its ability to leverage strategic acquisitions and improve operational efficiency will be key to its success in the coming years.