Publication date: November 19, 2024
- Year of founding: 1836 (spawned from the predecessors of Kluwer and Wolters-Samsom)
- Year added to the AEX: 1987
- Highest share price ever: Circa €165 in 2024
- Average trading volume: Approximately 300.000 shares per day
- Price performance over the past 12 months: +26.29
Introduction to the company
Wolters Kluwer N.V. is a global information and services company based in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands. The company provides specialized software, information, and services to professionals in the healthcare, legal services, tax, finance, and risk management sectors. Listed on the Euronext Amsterdam under the symbol WKL, Wolters Kluwer is known for its innovative technology and solutions that support customers in making critical decisions.
Core figures & performance
In 2023, Wolters Kluwer reported revenue of approximately €5.5 billion, an increase of about 2.4% from the previous year. The company achieved a net profit of about €1 billion and showed a solid operating margin of 26%. Wolters Kluwer's market capitalization is approximately €37.5 billion, making it one of the larger companies within the AEX index. The company pays regular dividends, with a total dividend payout of €1.81 per share in 2023, and maintains an active share repurchase program to create shareholder value.
History & development
Wolters Kluwer was founded in 1836 and has since undergone an impressive transformation from a traditional publishing house to a leading provider of digital solutions and software. Through strategic acquisitions and investments in technology, the company has adapted to the changing needs of customers. Key milestones in its recent history include the acquisitions of CCH Tagetik (financial performance software) and Enablon (risk management and compliance solutions). These acquisitions have contributed to the digitization and diversification of Wolters Kluwer's services.
Sector & competition
Wolters Kluwer operates within the professional information services and software solutions sector. It competes with other major players such as Thomson Reuters, RELX Group, and Bloomberg. It is distinguished by its deep knowledge of the needs of professional markets and the development of customized digital solutions. The sector is highly competitive and characterized by constant innovation, with companies using technology to provide customers with better insights and efficiencies.
Influence of Wolters Kluwer on the AEX
With a weighting of approximately 4.1% (measured in 2024), Wolters Kluwer plays an important role within the AEX index. The stock is a stable factor in the index, thanks to its predictable revenue streams and profitability. However, Wolters Kluwer's share price can be affected by macroeconomic trends, technological developments and competitive pressures in the sector.
Investment analysis & outlook
Wolters Kluwer is considered a solid investment by analysts, thanks to its strong position in fast-growing markets such as healthcare and risk management. The shift to cloud-based and digital solutions offers significant growth opportunities. Analysts expect the company to continue to benefit from increasing demand for automation and to further strengthen its profitability. The main risks for investors are changes in regulation, technological disruption and dependence on economic cycles.
Below you can follow Wolters Kluwer's share price performance compared to the AEX over the past 5 years. It shows that Wolters Kluwer has shown consistent growth and is less volatile compared to the broader market, thanks to its strong focus on essential services and technology.
News & updates
Wolters Kluwer recently announced plans to expand its investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to add new functionality to its software products. In addition, the company has plans to further strengthen its position in the U.S. and Asian markets through strategic partnerships and acquisitions. Wolters Kluwer remains focused on innovation and value creation by providing its customers with advanced solutions that help them in a rapidly changing business environment. For more information on Wolters Kluwer's strategy and performance, please visit its official website: wolterskluwer.com.