Pihlajalinna - More favorable outlook for 2019E

Profitability recovered to reasonable levels

Pihlajalinna’s profitability weakened in 2018 with to weak H1, but recovered to reasonable level in H2 as cost savings from co-determination negotiations kicked in, negative EBITDA-contribution from new clinic openings contracted and as organic growth turned back to positive territory in H2 with insurance revenue drop levelling off. Improved performance of H2 supports the outlook for 2019E, for which co. guides adj. EBIT to improve significantly. While competition has increased in certain service areas and cities, Pihlajalinna’s altered expansion plan and OP’s retreat from expansion plans should reduce risk of further capacity increases burdening profitability in the mid-term.

Growth prospects somewhat brighter; clarity on SOTE needed

Pihlajalinna started production of residential services in Laihia in Sep 2018. Provision of occupational healthcare services for Stora Enso started in Jan 2019. Additionally co. has been negotiating with Laitila, Ruovesi and Kristiinankaupunki, although at present each remain undecided. Overall, municipalities’ eagerness to strike new contracts remains impacted by the lack of clarity on how the SOTE reform turns out. Improved clarity on SOTE in the coming weeks might improve activity in the municipality field. Additionally, Pihlajalinna’s geographical reach has expanded in 2017-2018, improving its positioning to win new business.

“Buy” with TP of EUR 12 intact

On our estimates Pihlajalinna is now valued 8.4x EV/EBITDA in FY19E, which translates into 10% discount to its own 3yr NTM historical average (9.3x) and to 16% discount to the peer group. We think valuation looks attractive considering the recovery in margins and a more promising outlook since H2’18. We retain “Buy” rating with TP of EUR 12. Our TP values the shares 9.0x EV/EBITDA on 2019E estimates, close to 3yr historical avg (9.3x).