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Investing.com -- Pearson reported third-quarter sales growth of 4%, taking growth for the first nine months of the year to 2%. The company flagged stronger growth ahead in the fourth quarter, citing favourable unit dynamics and continued traction in its digital offerings.
Virtual Learning remained the standout performer, with sales up 17% in the quarter and enrolments for the 2025/26 academic year rising 13%. Assessment & Qualifications also improved, posting 4% growth as Pearson VUE returned to expansion.
Enterprise Learning & Skills sales rose 2% in the period, with management pointing to building momentum in enterprise solutions.
Higher Education sales dipped 1% in the quarter due to weakness in international markets, although U.S. Higher Education managed a 2% increase, supported by steady demand in core courseware.
English Language Learning returned to modest growth, with a 1% rise in Q3 driven by strong demand for the Pearson Test of English ahead of planned enhancements.
Chief Executive Omar Abbosh said the company delivered “another quarter of good progress,” highlighting accelerated sales growth and “robust performance across our businesses.”
He added that Pearson is “leading on the application of innovative technologies and growing our enterprise customer footprint,” pointing to partnerships with Cognizant, Deloitte and Salesforce as evidence of growing scale in its enterprise channel.
Looking ahead, Pearson expects full-year sales growth and adjusted operating profit to land in line with 2025 market expectations, with Q4 set to show stronger growth.
Beyond next year, it sees a mid-single-digit sales compound annual growth rate (CAGR), annual margin expansion of around 40 basis points on average, and free cash conversion of 90% to 100%.
Abbosh said Pearson is “well positioned for the opportunities that lie ahead,” citing clear growth drivers and strategic execution in what he described as a defining period for digital education services.