From MoneyWeek · · 1m 30s
Judges Scientific: Time to Buy Fallen Market Darling
Judges Scientific shares drop 50% from 2024 peak as cyclical issues threaten growth.
In brief
Judges Scientific shares drop 50% from 2024 peak as cyclical issues threaten growth. Judges Scientific shares fell 50% from 2024 peak after cyclical challenges, but analysts say now is a good time to buy as underlying business remains strong. Originally reported by MoneyWeek.
Judges Scientific's market performance
Judges Scientific shares rose 10,300% from 2004 to 2024 but lost nearly two-thirds of value since 2024 peak.
How Judges Scientific operates
Judges Scientific acquires small niche businesses to serve scientific and testing end markets with owner-operated entities.
Business model and strategy
The group focuses on return on tangible invested capital above 20% with 23 core businesses under one holding company.
2024 performance challenges
Geotek reported delays to high-margin projects causing 2% lower sales and a 21% profit drop for 2024.
2025 financial struggles
North American revenue fell 25% with net profit declining from £22 million to £21 million in 2025.
Leadership changes
CEO David Cicurel steps down in February 2026, succeeded by Tim Prestidge; CFO steps down in September 2027.
Current valuation
Shares trade at 19 times forward earnings after dropping from 43 times in 2024.
Analyst outlook
Berenberg predicts margins stabilize and sales improve next year with small recovery in 2028.
Investment opportunity
Analysts say now is a good time to buy Judges Scientific as cyclical issues may improve by 2029.
Why now to buy
Judges Scientific has cash to buy peers and extended banking facilities to 2030 for continued growth.
The short version
Judges Scientific shares fell 50% from 2024 peak after cyclical challenges, but analysts say now is a good time to buy as underlying business remains strong.
