Is EXPN.L (Experian plc) Halal or Haram?

Based on our AAOIFI-standard shariah screening, EXPN.L is Halal and considered permissible for Muslim investors. It passed all 4 of 4 compliance screens including business activity review, debt-to-market-cap ratio (21.83% vs ≤33% threshold), interest income ratio (0.28% vs ≤5% threshold), and cash & securities ratio (1.76% vs ≤33% threshold).

Experian plc is a global leader in information services, best known for providing credit reports and scores to both businesses and consumers. Beyond simple credit checks, the company operates sophisticated data analytics platforms that help lenders manage risk, prevent fraud, and automate decision- making processes across North America, Latin America, the UK, and EMEA. Its dual focus on Business-to-Business data solutions and direct Consumer Services makes it a pivotal player in the global financial infrastructure. For Muslim investors, Exper ian is classified as Halal under AAOIFI standards, having passed all four critical screening metrics. The company's business activities are fundamentally permissible as they revolve around data processing and consultancy rather than the act of lending money itself. This distinction is crucial; while Experian serves the banking industry, it acts as a service provider rather than a financial intermediary earning haram interest income. Financially, the company demonstrates a strong shariah-compliant profile with relatively low leverage compared to its market value. The debt-to-market cap ratio is 21.8%, providing a comfortable buffer against the 33% limit, and its cash holdings are minimal at 1.8%, indicating efficient capital deployment. Most importantly, the company generates almost entirely pure revenue, with interest income accounting for only 0.28% of its total earnings, meaning very little purification is required for dividends. Investors should continue to monitor the company's acquisitions, as Experian frequently acquires fintech and data firms that could alter its balance sheet composition. While the current snapshot is clearly compliant, the nature of the financial services industry means investors should ensure future revenue streams remain focused on technology and data fees rather than interest-based financial products. Experian plc operates in the Industrials sector under the Consulting Services industry and is headquartered in Dublin, IE. The company is led by CEO Brian J. Cassin and employs approximately 22,500 people.

EXPN.L was screened using AAOIFI-based shariah compliance criteria. Four tests are applied: (1) Business Activity — the company's core business must not derive primary income from haram (prohibited) activities such as alcohol, gambling, tobacco, or interest-based finance. (2) Debt-to-Market-Cap — total debt must not exceed 33% of market capitalization. (3) Interest Income — interest income must not exceed 5% of total revenue. (4) Cash & Securities — cash and interest-bearing securities must not exceed 33% of market cap. EXPN.L passed 4 of these 4 screens.

Although EXPN.L passes all shariah screens, it does earn $21.0M in interest income (0.28% of revenue). Many scholars recommend purifying this portion by donating the equivalent percentage of any dividends received to charity. For example, if you receive $100 in dividends, you would donate approximately $0.28 to purify the income.

EXPN.L was last screened on 2026-02-24. Shariah compliance status can change as companies report new financial data, acquire new businesses, or shift revenue streams. We recommend checking back periodically for the most up-to-date screening results.