Vistry Faces Third Profit Warning in Three Months, Shares Hit Two-Year Low
The UK housebuilder cites delays and unattractive deal terms for its reduced profit forecast, further eroding investor confidence.
- Vistry has lowered its 2024 pre-tax profit forecast to £250 million, down from earlier guidance of £300 million, marking its third profit warning since October.
- The company's shares dropped 17% to their lowest level since October 2022, following its recent relegation from the FTSE 100 index.
- Delays in completing housing developments and transactions, as well as the decision to abandon some deals due to unfavorable terms, contributed to the profit downgrade.
- Vistry's earlier profit warnings stemmed from understated build costs in its southern division, which led to a £165 million reduction in expected profits over two months.
- CEO Greg Fitzgerald acknowledged the challenges of 2024 and emphasized a commitment to rebuilding profitability and addressing the UK's housing shortage in 2025.