Persol Holdings (2181) investor relations material

Executive summary

• Q1 revenue rose 3.6% year-over-year to ¥373.6 billion, with adjusted EBITDA at ¥21.7 billion and operating profit at ¥15.4 billion, progressing in line with full-year forecasts.

• Adjusted EBITDA progress rate was 25.2% of the full-year target, and operating profit progress rate was 26%, both considered on track.

• Operating profit and net income declined year-over-year due to temporary factors, including the absence of a prior-year tax refund and lower subsidies.

• Notable ESG achievements include selection for FTSE indices, joining the Valuable 500, and launching an AI basic policy.

• Advances in technology and AI strategy were highlighted, focusing on career well-being and proprietary AI agent utilization.

Financial highlights

• Revenue increased 3.6% year-over-year to ¥373.6 billion; operating profit declined 9.2% to ¥15.4 billion; adjusted EBITDA decreased 5.1% to ¥21.7 billion.

• Gross profit rose to ¥86.5 billion, but SG&A expenses increased due to higher personnel and system investment costs.

• Net profit attributable to owners was ¥10.7 billion, down 17.7% year-over-year; adjusted profit was ¥12.8 billion, down 15.6%.

• EPS was ¥4.86, down 15.0% year-over-year; adjusted EPS was ¥5.76, down 13.1%.

• Q1 revenue and adjusted EBITDA represent 24.3% and 25.2% of full-year forecasts, respectively.

Outlook and guidance

• Full-year forecasts remain unchanged: revenue of ¥1,540 billion, adjusted EBITDA of ¥86.5 billion, and operating profit of ¥66 billion are expected.

• Q1 progress rates for revenue and adjusted EBITDA are in line with expectations, supporting confidence in meeting annual targets.

• No revision to previously announced financial or dividend forecasts.