1039 GMT - Pearson's performance update failed to offer the reassurance investors were seeking on artificial intelligence, AJ Bell's Dan Coatsworth write in a note. The FTSE 100 education company needs to convince investors that AI represents an opportunity rather than a threat, he says. "In an environment with mounting concern about AI's ability to disrupt Pearson, its latest statement didn't offer the reassurance investors were looking for." Additionally, the lack of guidance for 2026, together with the loss of a U.S. student assessment contract in New Jersey, are likely to weigh on performance in the first half of the year, he adds. Shares are down 7.2% at 9.98 pounds. (najat.kantouar@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

January 14, 2026 05:39 ET (10:39 GMT)

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