Assura PLC (AGR.L), a prominent name in the real estate sector, stands as the UK’s leading diversified healthcare Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT). Based in Altrincham, Assura’s commitment to enhancing health outcomes is evident through its extensive portfolio of more than 600 healthcare facilities, serving over six million patients. As a constituent of the FTSE 250 and the EPRA indices, alongside a secondary listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Assura plays a pivotal role in the healthcare infrastructure landscape.
With a market capitalisation of $1.58 billion, Assura has positioned itself as a significant player within the healthcare facilities industry. Currently trading at 48.68 GBp, the stock’s 52-week range reflects resilience, having fluctuated between 35.34 GBp and 50.65 GBp. Investors might find the stability in its price particularly appealing, given the modest 0.14 GBp (0.00%) change.
Valuation metrics present an intriguing picture, with a forward P/E ratio of 1,323.19, which might raise eyebrows. This figure suggests that investors are paying a premium for anticipated future earnings, indicative of the market’s confidence in Assura’s long-term growth potential. However, the absence of trailing P/E, PEG, and other conventional valuation metrics might require investors to delve deeper into qualitative assessments.
From a financial performance perspective, Assura boasts a commendable revenue growth of 24.30%, complemented by an earnings per share (EPS) of 0.05 and a return on equity (ROE) of 10.66%. These metrics reflect a robust operational framework. Moreover, the company’s free cash flow stands at a substantial £57.26 million, underscoring liquidity and financial flexibility to support growth initiatives and shareholder returns.
Dividend-seeking investors might find Assura’s yield of 6.90% particularly attractive, supported by a payout ratio of 63.40%. This suggests a sustainable dividend policy, balancing reward to shareholders with reinvestment for future expansion.
Analyst sentiment towards Assura is cautiously optimistic, with two buy ratings and three hold ratings. The target price range of 48.00 GBp to 60.00 GBp, with an average target of 52.25 GBp, indicates a potential upside of 7.33%. This presents a favourable outlook for those considering an entry point at current price levels.
Technically, the stock’s 50-day moving average of 49.68 GBp and 200-day moving average of 44.55 GBp highlight a near-term consolidation phase, while the RSI (14) of 49.17 suggests the stock is neither overbought nor oversold. The MACD at -0.42 and signal line at -0.40 imply a neutral to slight bearish momentum, warranting close monitoring for trend changes.
Assura’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, as the first FTSE 250 certified B Corp, further enhances its appeal to socially conscious investors. The company’s strategy to create healthy environments and communities aligns well with the growing investor demand for sustainable and ethical investment opportunities.
With a portfolio valued at £3.1 billion as of March 2025, Assura’s strong track record of financial returns and dividend growth positions it as a compelling investment within the healthcare REIT sector. For investors seeking exposure to a stable, yield-generating asset underpinned by a robust healthcare infrastructure, Assura PLC offers a noteworthy proposition worth considering.
