Entero Healthcare Solutions Ltd. IPO : SUBSCRIBE

Entero Healthcare Solutions Ltd. IPO : SUBSCRIBE
  • Date

    09th Feb 2024 - 13th Feb 2024

  • Price Range

    Rs. 1,195 to Rs. 1,258

  • Minimum Order Quantity

    11

Company Overview

Incorporated in 2018, Entero Healthcare Solutions Ltd was established to create an organized and technology-driven healthcare product distribution platform that serves the entire healthcare ecosystem pan-India. The company facilitates healthcare product manufacturers by providing access to pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics through its integrated and technology-driven distribution platform. Similarly, clients (pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics) gain access to a broad range of healthcare products through the distribution infrastructure and established relationships with healthcare product manufacturers. Over the years, the company has acquired 34 entities in the Indian healthcare products distribution industry. The company’s pan-India approach to acquiring and integrating smaller distributors has increased its geographic reach and has grown its customer base. The company operates 77 distribution warehouses spread across 38 cities in 19 states and union territories, with an aggregate size of 4,64,112 sq. ft. As of September 2023, it serves a customer base of over 73,700 pharmacies and 2,800 hospitals across 501 districts, providing vast access to healthcare product manufacturers. Additionally, the company has established supply relationships with over 1,900 healthcare product manufacturers and access to over 63,900 product SKUs as of 1HFY24.

Objects of the issue:

The net proceeds from the fresh issue will be used towards the following purposes:

  • Repayment/prepayment, in full or part, of certain borrowings availed of by our Company;
  • Funding of long-term working capital requirements of the Company and its Subsidiaries during FY25 and FY26;
  • Pursuing inorganic growth initiatives through acquisitions: and
  • General corporate purposes.

Investment Rationale:

Operates in a fragmented Indian healthcare products distribution market and expects to benefit from market consolidation.

The distribution network of pharmaceutical products in India is highly fragmented, with around 65,000 distributors as of FY23, serving limited local areas only, unlike developed markets where large nationwide distributors occupy a dominant market position. The Indian pharmaceutical distribution market remains fragmented, with traditional local distributors having a market share of around 92% and large/national distributors having a market share of around 8%. Market consolidation in India’s pharmaceutical distribution market is expected to be supported by factors such as the introduction of the GST regime and benefits presented by the consolidation of the segment, such as access to additional capital, better resource management, advantages of scale, establishment of a technology-driven country-wide distribution network, better infrastructure, quick turnaround times and high fill rates. The company will be able to benefit from the market consolidation in India and continue to expand business through future strategic acquisitions of local distributors. The company also believes that a technology-driven, nationwide distribution network, relationships with over 1,900 healthcare product manufacturers that give us access to over 63,900 product SKUs as of H1FY24, and an experienced and professional management team position us well to continue to grow the scale of business in India and take advantage of the shift towards the organized Indian healthcare products distribution market. According to the CRISIL Report, distributors can increase their market reach in a comparatively shorter period by growing inorganically, compared to pharmacy retailers that usually require relatively more time to scale as they need to increase store count.

India’s largest and fastest growing healthcare products distribution platforms to cater to demand

The company has developed a technology-driven, scalable business model focusing on network  expansion, execution, and cost efficiency to enable demand fulfilment in the healthcare industry. The company has established a large footprint in the distribution of healthcare products, with relationships with key stakeholders such as manufacturers, pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics. Further, the company’s B2B ordering application is integrated with other third-party customer ordering applications,  allowing them to seamlessly add customers to the network by providing customers with visibility of product range and pricing, allowing them to place orders through the Entero Direct application     conveniently.

Valuation and Outlook:

Entero Healthcare Solutions’ main focus is to create an organized and technology-driven healthcare product distribution platform that serves the entire healthcare ecosystem pan-India. The company’s pan-India approach to acquiring and integrating smaller distributors has increased its geographic reach and has grown its customer base. The company uses growth strategies such as product portfolio expansion, increased customer reach, improved service levels, and technology-based solutions to boost its market share. The company replicates this approach while expanding into new geographies and continuously attracting collaborations from the distributors. The company also has a record of sustained consolidated revenue from operation, growing at a CAGR of 36.2% during FY21-23. Looking at the industry growth, Entero, which is one of the largest and fastest-growing healthcare product distributors, is expected to grow from 8%-10% in FY23 to 20% -30 % by FY28. Going ahead, the improvement in operational performance is anticipated to be driven by a wide range of products offered, operations aimed at providing high fill rates to customers, technology-driven inventory management and order placing mechanisms for customers, economies of scale advantage, and competitive and transparent pricing. The issue is valued at a P/E of 111.2x on the upper price band based on FY24E earnings, which we feel is fairly valued in comparison to its peer. We, therefore, recommend an SUBSCRIBE rating for the issue.

Jana Small Finance Bank Ltd. IPO : SUBSCRIBE

Jana Small Finance Bank Ltd. IPO : SUBSCRIBE
  • Date

    07th Feb, 2024 - 09th Feb, 2024

  • Price Range

    Rs. 393 to Rs. 414

  • Minimum Order Quantity

    36

Company Overview

Headquartered in Bengaluru, Jana Small Finance Bank Ltd. (Jana SFB) was incorporated in 2006. The financial services company was converted into SFB by the RBI in 2018. In terms of AUM and deposit size, Jana SFB is the fourth-largest SFB serving nearly 12 million customers as of September 30, 2023. The company has 771 banking outlets including 278 banking outlets in unbanked rural centres in 22 states and two union territories. The SFB has focussed on secured loan products that consist of 57.4% of the total loans and focuses on business loans, microloans against property, MSME loans, affordable housing loans, term loans to NBFC, loans against fixed deposits, two-wheeler loans, and gold loans. The balance 42.6% consists of an unsecured loan book that offers individual and micro business loans, agricultural and allied loans, and group loans (group loans are offered to a group of women as per the Joint Liability Group). In addition to providing banking operations, the SFB is a corporate agent for third-party life insurance products, general (non-life) insurance products, and health insurance products, including COVID-19 insurance products. It also offers Point of Sales (POS) terminals and payment gateway services through its merchant-acquiring partners.

Objects of the issue:

The offer comprises fresh issue and offer for sale. The net proceeds from the fresh issue will be used towards the following purposes:

  • Towards augmenting the bank’s Tier-I capital base to meet the bank’s future capital requirements; and
  • General corporate purposes.

Investment Rationale:

Fast growing retail deposit base and diversified deposit franchise

The SFB has been able to leverage the strength of the “Jana” brand to rapidly grow its deposit portfolio since the commencement of operations as an SFB in March 2018. Jana SFB’s deposit products comprise current accounts, savings accounts, recurring deposits, and term deposits where a variety of term deposits with multiple interest payment options, along with competitive interest rates is offered. Its deposits increased from Rs. 123,162.6 million as at March 31, 2021, to Rs. 163,340.2 million as at March 31, 2023, representing a CAGR of 15.2%. This has further increased to Rs. 189,367.2 million as of September 30, 2023 to be among the top four SFBs in India in terms of deposit size. To concentrate on growing its retail deposits, the SFB is implementing a daily sales rhythm where each member of its sales staff at its branches has set a daily target of meeting with 15 potential retail deposit customers, generating 10 leads and converting five customers. This will improve sales productivity, which coupled with customer activation with the help of a dedicated sales and monitoring process, will increase retail deposits, thereby leading to a reduction in the overall cost of acquisition of retail deposits and its cost of deposits.

Focus on accelerating the secured loan book and diversifying the lending book

Jana SFB plans to further accelerate its gross secured advances by (i) offering multiple products to its existing customers including evaluating new products such as used two-wheeler loans; (ii) focusing penetration into current states and expanding the oversight of hubs around 100 kilometres covering Tier 1 centres (having a population of 100,000 or more) and Tier 2 centres (having a population between 50,000 and 99,999); (iii) enhancing its location strategy by mapping industry performance and tightening policies; (iv) focusing on the right combination of customer segment and collateral type; and (v) enhancing its digital capabilities to source and serve customers. With a focus on affordable housing loans and loans against property, the SFB can secure better credit at lower costs and opportunities for cross-selling under the secured loan book. Additionally, it continues to cross-sell gold loans to microfinance institutions’ customers and maximize output through product and pricing strategies.

Valuation and Outlook:

The SFBs have been making strong inroads into the credit market and enabling financial inclusiveness across the country. These SFBs have good deposit mobilization and outreach among the under-banked masses, which would drive their market share multi-fold in the foreseeable future. The exponential growth in the SFB industry is illustrated by the growth in both loans and deposits. SFBs’ target audience is the low-income segment who can be wooed with a sachet-level product suite. Unlike NBFCs, which expand horizontally with a special focus product, SFBs have a chance to expand vertically and horizontally. Jana has transitioned its focus from microfinance loans to expanding its secured loan book, including affordable housing loans, secured business loans, gold loans, MSME loans, and two-wheeler loans. As a result, the proportion of Jana SFB’s gross secured advances has increased from 55.4% as at September 30, 2022, to 57.4% as at September 30, 2023. As of September 30, 2023, microfinance loans accounted for around 42.4% of its portfolio, with the balance being constituted by secured advances such as MSME loans (15%), loans to NBFCs (6.5%), gold loans (1.3%) and others (19.4%). The key trigger of Jana SFB’s strong fundamentals is that it intends to strengthen its liability franchise with a focus on growing its deposit base to attain a stable and low-cost source of funding. As the lender will utilize the net proceeds of the fresh equity issue to augment its Tier-I capital base, its capital adequacy will enhance and lead to a stable leverage position. At the current P/BV multiple of 1.2x based on book value as on September 2023, we believe the company is reasonably valued and advise investors to “Subscribe” to the issue from a medium to long-term perspective.

Rashi Peripherals Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE

Rashi Peripherals Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE
  • Date

    07th Feb 2024 - 09th Feb 2024

  • Price Range

    Rs. 295 to Rs. 311

  • Minimum Order Quantity

    48

Company Overview

Established in 1989 and having over 34 years of experience, Rashi Peripherals Ltd. is a leading national distribution partner for global technology brands in India for information and communication technology (ICT) products. Initially, the company started as a manufacturer of peripherals but due to the liberalization of the economy in 1991, the company transitioned into distribution of ICT products of global technology brands in India. The company primarily operates in two business verticals, namely (i) Personal Computing, Enterprise, and Cloud Solutions (PES) and (ii) Lifestyle and IT Essentials (LIT). Under PES, the company is primarily engaged in the distribution of personal computing devices, enterprise solutions, embedded products, and cloud computing. The LIT business caters to the distribution of products such as graphic cards, central processing units (“CPUs”) and motherboards, storage and memory devices, lifestyle peripherals and accessories that include keyboards, mice, web cameras, monitors, wearables, casting devices, fitness trackers, gaming accessories, power equipment such as UPS and invertors, and networking and mobility devices. Over the years, the company has continuously expanded its operations and as of six months ended September 2023, the company distributed 311.89 million units of ICT products. The company also expanded its distribution network and currently has one of the largest ICT product distribution networks in India. The company differentiates itself by offering end-to-end services such as pre-sale activities, solutions design, technical support, marketing services, credit solutions, and warranty management services. Over the years, the company has consistently added new global technology brands to its portfolio and worked with them to distribute products across categories. The company has had business relationships for more than eight years with several global technology brands including Asus Global Pte Limited, Dell International Services India Private Limited, HP India Sales Private Limited, Lenovo India Private Limited, Logitech Asia Pacific Limited, NVIDIA Corporation and many more.

Objects of the issue:

The net proceeds from the fresh issue will be used towards the following purposes:

  • Prepayment or scheduled re-payment of all or a portion of certain outstanding borrowings availed by the company;
  • Funding working capital requirements of the company; and
  • General corporate purposes.

Investment Rationale:

Leading and fastest-growing Indian distribution partner for information and         communications technology products

The company distributes a range of ICT products manufactured by global technology brands such as personal computing, mobility, enterprise, embedded solutions, components, lifestyle, storage and memory devices, UPS, and accessories,. The company also distributes cloud computing solutions. The wide variety of products that the company distributes has helped them to achieve economies of scale and provide channel partners with a single sourcing point. The company is among the leading technology-integrated national distribution partners for global technology brands in India for ICT products in terms of revenues in fiscal 2023. The company is also one of the fastest-growing national distribution partners for global technology brands in India in terms of revenue growth between fiscal 2021 and fiscal 2023. The company is also a major player catering to Indian consumer demand for product categories like processors, graphic cards, and internal storage. As an important link in the technology value chain, the company creates sales and profitable opportunities for global technology brands and channel partners through its customized marketing programs, just-in-time logistics solutions, pre-sales and post-sales technical support, product planning, and distribution solutions.

Long-term relationships with marquee global technology brands supported by a committed engagement strategy with customers

Global technology brands undertake continuous research and development and introduce new products from time to time. These global technology brands also have extensive supply chain capabilities which ensures the availability of their products. These factors result in greater brand recall for such global technology brands which facilitates the sale of their products. The company maintains long-term relationships with such marquee global technology brands from whom it procures ICT products revenue of the company. The company also provides advertisements on behalf of global technology brands in technology and consumer media publications.

Valuation and Outlook:

With the increasing penetration of internet connectivity across geographies of rural and urban India, the number of smartphones, social media users, and online shoppers in India is on the rise. The IT penetration in non-metro cities in India has increased due to the penetration of smartphones and government-enabled village knowledge centres, leading to increased awareness which in turn is driving demand for ICT products. The non-metro cities and other rural geographies are becoming centers of consumption for ICT products like personal computers, smartphones, internet devices, and networking devices, and hence, there is a requirement for ICT distributors and resellers having a pan-India presence. The ICT sector significantly contributes to the country’s GDP. Due to such emerging demand, India’s ICT industry size is expected to reach Rs. 1,087 billion (approximately USD 136 billion) by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 10%. Various key factors for the growth of PC and components business include the booming gaming industry in India, increasing data volumes, efficient supply chain solutions, and the central government’s PLI schemes. Due to such factors, the demand for international hardware and software products is likely to rise. Therefore, Rashi Peripherals Ltd. emerges as one of the partners to bridge the gap for such emerging demand in India, given its diverse marquee suppliers and long-grown customer base. Hence, we expect the company to benefit from such a demand scenario in the long term. On the financial performance front, the company’s Revenue/EBITDA grew at a CAGR of 26.3%/10.1% during the FY2021-23 period. The company’s net profit dropped to Rs. 1,233 million in FY23 from Rs. 1,364 million in FY21. On the upper price band, the issue is valued at a P/E of 10.5x based on FY2023 earnings which we feel is fairly valued compared to its peers. Given a highly competitive environment and thin margins of the business, we recommend investors to  “Subscribe” to the issue for listing gains.

Capital Small Finance Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE

Capital Small Finance Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE
  • Date

    07th Feb, 2024 - 09th Feb, 2024

  • Price Range

    Rs. 445 to Rs. 468

  • Minimum Order Quantity

    32

Company Overview

Incorporated in 1999, Capital Small Finance Bank Ltd. (Capital SFB) received a license to operate as a small finance bank in 2016 before operating as a local area bank since its inception. The SFB offers a range of banking products on the asset and liability side. With an experience of over two decades in the banking industry, the SFB’s strategy is to strengthen the retail-focused banking franchise by enabling access to affordable credit to middle-income group segments with special emphasis on rural and semi-urban areas. Capital SFB’s business model primarily focuses on the middle-income customer segments i.e., customers with an average annual income of Rs. 0.4 million to Rs. 5 million in semi-urban and rural areas. The company has 41.6% of its branches in rural areas, 34.68% branches in semi-urban areas, and 23.70% of its branches in urban areas as on September 30, 2023. The SFB operates in states like Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh where it offers products consisting of agriculture loans, MSME, and trading loans (working capital, machinery loans etc.) and mortgages (housing loans and loans against property). As on September 30, 2023, Capital SFB was present in five states and one Union Territory with 173 branches and 175 ATMs. Over the years, the bank has diversified its portfolio with a sizeable book in multiple asset classes with a proportion of secured lending at 99.85% as on September 30, 2023. Additionally, the lender generates fee income from products and services such as forex and money transfer, outward remittances, safe deposit lockers, distribution of life insurance and general insurance products, 3-in-1 demat and trading accounts, and other ancillary services. While most of the SFBs are pure MFI turned SFB and have huge concentration in MFI products, Capital SFB has about 19.7% of portfolio concentration towards MSME, agriculture accounts for 38.7% and mortgages accounts for 26.1% of the portfolio.

Objects of the issue:

The offer comprises fresh issue and offer for sale. The net proceeds from the fresh issue will be used towards the following purposes:

  • Towards augmenting the bank’s Tier-I capital base to meet the bank’s future capital requirements; and
  • General corporate purposes.

Investment Rationale:

Impressive business with retail focused liability alongside secured and diversified advances portfolio

With over 16 years of experience in operating as a local area bank, Capital SFB has deep understanding of growing its deposit base. This has helped the SFB to create a retail-centric deposit franchise with a high share of CASA deposits, with the CASA ratio increasing from 40.1% in FY21 to 41.9% in FY23. The lender offers a comprehensive suite of products of savings bank deposits, current deposits, term deposits, NRE and NRO deposits, and tax saver deposits to cater to the diverse needs of its customers. Due to high retail deposits, the bank has significant advantages including stability in deposits, greater customer retention, and enhanced cross-selling opportunities in addition to supporting the low cost of funds. Coming onto the Capital SFB’s advances portfolio, it has consciously focused on building a secured and granular loan book over the years with a focus on income generation. As on March 31, 2023, and September 30, 2023, 99.82% and 99.85% of its loan books were secured. It has a well-diversified portfolio across agriculture, MSME and trading, mortgage lending, and other products which helps to mitigate risk and optimize resources. As on September 30, 2023, the average ticket size of agriculture, MSME & trading, and mortgage lending products stood at Rs. 1.24 million, Rs. 1.81 million and Rs. 1.15 million, respectively. Further, a well-diversified loan portfolio with a focus on income generation, continued focus on secured lending, continuous customer engagement, and structured underwriting practices has contributed to the lender’s growth and superior asset quality as compared to other SFBs.

Streamlined credit assessment processes with customer centric approach

Capital SFB’s strategy of secured lending, primarily for productive purposes and conservative loan-to-value ratio, contributes towards lower delinquencies and credit losses. The lender’s positioning as the primary banker to most of its customers enables it to have a comprehensive view and control over cash flows, thereby contributing towards effective credit assessment. Further, its dedicated customer relationship team maintains healthy engagement with customers on an ongoing basis which has resulted in effective collection recoveries and consequently better asset quality. Through its understanding of the market and customer base, the SFB offers a range of credit and non-credit products and services to address a variety of financing requirements of customers through its branch network. Capital SFB is a one-stop financial hub for its customers with 7,25,037 customers as on September 30, 2023. The bank targets customers across sectors with special attention to rural and semi-urban centers as borrowers in these regions tend to have lower credit penetration which helps the lender with less competition, and a lower risk of customer migration (leading to longer, more loyal customer relationships), better credit behaviours and, in turn, lower delinquency rates.

Valuation and Outlook:

With small finance banks and payments bank increasing their reach and expanding into rural areas and increasing financial awareness, faster growth in rural areas can be expected in future due to the huge untapped potential. Given the stronghold and experience of these entities in dealing with customers across these regions, the share of SFBs will go up against the public and private sector banks. The sector’s loan portfolio is expected to see a strong growth of around 22-24% CAGR during FY2023-25 period as most of the SFBs have completed the transition phase and are likely to benefit from the operating leverage. Capital SFB already had its presence across the retail liability and asset side on account of operating as a local area bank before converting to a small finance bank. As a result, its retail franchise and reach has already been established across current and savings deposits as well as retail term deposits, thereby placing it in a good stead against other small finance banks. In comparison to other SFBs which are primarily focused on MFI lending and find it more difficult to penetrate into other products, Capital SFB has products, systems and processes in place to scale up operations across different products and geographies. Furthermore, Capital SFB has a CASA ratio which is similar to some of the leading private sector banks like HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, and ICICI Bank. Moreover, the lender’s gross NPA of 2.73% and net NPA of 1.36% as on September 30, 2023 acts as a testament to its streamlined underwriting processes, credit assessment, efficient collections, and risk management. It is important to note that the lender’s PPOP has grown from Rs. 714.86 million in FY21 to Rs. 1,487.04 million in FY23 and stood at Rs. 753.84 million as of six months ended September 30, 2023. As the lender will utilize net proceeds of the fresh equity issue to augment its Tier-I capital base, its capital adequacy will enhance and lead to a stable leverage position. At the current P/BV multiple of 2.3x based on book value as on September 2023, we believe the company is reasonably valued and advise investors to “Subscribe” to the issue from a medium to long-term perspective.

Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE

Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE
  • Date

    5th February, 2024 - 7th February, 2024

  • Price Range

    Rs. 147 to Rs. 155

  • Minimum Order Quantity

    96

Company Overview

Founded in 1987, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Ltd. (ASPH) has emerged as a prominent player in the hospitality sector, boasting a diverse array of brands, including “THE PARK,” “THE PARK Collection,” “Zone by The Park,” “Zone Connect by The Park,” and the renowned retail brand ‘Flurys.’ With a robust presence in the retail food and beverage industry, the company manages an extensive network comprising 80 restaurants, nightclubs, and bars, and offer patrons an array of culinary experiences. The company has also made significant inroads in the hotel segment and operates 27 establishments across different categories comprising luxury boutiques to upscale and upper midscale which are strategically located in key Indian cities. As of August 2023, ASPH’s hotel portfolio consists a total 2,111 rooms and spans cities including Kolkata, New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Mumbai, Coimbatore, Indore, Goa, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jammu, Navi Mumbai, Visakhapatnam, Port Blair, and Pathankot. Complementing its hotel business, the company owns and manages a distinguished array of restaurants, including Zen, Lotus, Aish, Saffron, Fire, Italia, 601, The Bridge, The Street, Verandah, Vista, Bamboo Bay, Monsoon, Mist, Love, and Bazaar. With a dedicated workforce of 1,923 employees as of June 2023, ASPH continues to shape the hospitality and F&B landscape in India.

Objects of the issue:

The net proceeds from the fresh issue will be used towards the following purposes:

  • Rs. 600 crores for repayment / prepayment, in full or in part of certain outstanding borrowings availed by the company; and
  • General corporate purposes.

Investment Rationale:

Enhanced brand recognition and diversified portfolio to fuel growth

ASPH has strategically built a diverse portfolio of hospitality brands, including “THE PARK,” “THE PARK Collection,” “Zone by The Park,” and “Zone Connect by The Park,” each catering to distinct price points and customer requirements. The company’s commitment to product innovation and service excellence has earned it recognition and accolades across various categories, reinforcing its position as a key player in the Indian hospitality industry. By partnering with leading Indian and international designers, ASPH has created iconic spaces that resonate with guests, fostering brand loyalty and driving expansion. The company’s focus on geographic expansion, wherein it has grown its hotel portfolio at a CAGR of 21.6% during FY21-H1FY24 period, reflects its ability to identify strategic locations and capitalize on growth opportunities. As India’s urban centers expand and discretionary spending increases, ASPH is well-positioned to benefit from rising demand for upscale and upper-mid-scale accommodations. With a proven track record of creating distinctive hospitality experiences, the company is poised for continued success and market leadership.

Synergies between hospitality and food & beverage businesses drive revenue      stability

ASPH’s integrated approach to hospitality encompasses not only accommodation but also food, beverage, and entertainment offerings (40% of revenue). The company’s iconic brands such as Zen, Lotus, and Someplace Else have become synonymous with quality and innovation, attracting both local and international patrons. Additionally, “Flurys” is an established retail food and beverage brand which has a distinctive track record and is widely recognized in India. Flurys operates under the ASPH umbrella and has 73 outlets with multiple formats such as kiosk, café, and restaurant format h. By leveraging its strong brand equity and operational expertise, ASPH has achieved high occupancy rates and competitive average room rates, bolstering its financial performance. The average occupancy levels for ASPH’s owned hotels for H1FY24 and H1FY23 and FY23 were 92.76%, 91.50%, and 91.55%, respectively, which is ahead of the majority of the market. The food, beverage, and entertainment segment, comprising 81 outlets and banquet spaces, adds a non-cyclical dimension to the company’s earnings and helps mitigate the seasonal fluctuations inherent in the hospitality industry. With India’s evolving demographic profile consisting of growing working-age population and increased discretionary spending, ASPH is well-positioned to capitalize on changing consumer preferences and lifestyle trends. By offering a diversified and holistic experience to its guests, the company ensures resilience and stability in its revenue streams, reinforcing its position as a leader in the hospitality sector.

Valuation and Outlook:

Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels stands at the intersection of a resurgent hospitality industry and a post-pandemic economic rebound. The resurgence is evident in the remarkable performance of the hotel sector over the past year which reflects buoyant market sentiment and optimism toward the sector’s recovery. The timing of Park Hotels’ IPO strategically positions the company to capitalize on this positive momentum. The company has built a strong brand presence and credibility within the hospitality industry which is likely to ensure that its valuations are respected over time. With a diversified pan-India portfolio, the company effectively spreads its risk across various geographic regions and market segments, enabling it to capture opportunities in a granular fashion. Moreover, the company’s historically high occupancy rates bode well for improving net margins, thereby contributing to its financial stability and growth trajectory. A closer examination of the financials reveals significant milestones achieved by the company in recent years. The company has demonstrated robust revenue growth, with sales nearly tripling over the past three years. This turnaround is notable, considering the company’s transition from losses to profitability, reflected in the sharp uptick in net profit in FY23. While the return on equity turned positive in FY23, the return on assets remains relatively modest, owing to the capital-intensive nature of the hotel industry. The valuation, although reasonable compared to peers, reflects market optimism in the relatively high P/E ratio, which stands at 56.4 times based on FY23 EPS Looking ahead, ASPH’s strategic initiatives, including debt reduction and its unique blend of hotel and F&B services, position it favourably for sustainable growth and market leadership. Based on the above-mentioned positives, we give the issue a “SUBSCRIBE” rating.

BLS E-Services Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE

BLS E-Services Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE
  • Date

    30th Jan 2024 - 01st Feb 2024

  • Price Range

    Rs. 129 to Rs. 135

  • Minimum Order Quantity

    108

Company Overview

Incorporated in 2016, BLS E-Services Ltd. (BLSe) is a technology-enabled digital service provider, providing (i) Business correspondent services to major banks in India, (ii) Assisted E-services; and (iii) E-Governance Services at grassroots levels in India. Through its tech-enabled integrated business model, it provides digital and physical products and services in the G2C, B2C, and B2B categories in semi-urban, rural, and remote areas where penetration of the internet is low and citizens need assistance in availing basic technology-enabled services. The company utilizes a “phygital” strategy (i.e., physical and digital) that integrates technologically over 98,000 merchant distribution outlets (comprising of BLS Touchpoints and BLS Stores) for assisted payment solutions, remittance, travel, education, and insurance products, with a one-stop digital online platform for all of its offerings. This results in a business model that is difficult to replicate, and which is intended to provide a smooth customer experience regardless of the product, service, or location. BLS Stores are BLS branded stores that offer its entire suite of offerings to consumers including the availability of select goods on a sample basis supplied by e-commerce players which can be ordered and procured by its consumers after having a touch and feel experience of such goods. As on September 30, 2023, the company has 98,034 BLS Touchpoints, which includes 1,016 BLS Stores. Further, the company also provides a variety of Assisted E-Services through retailers and digital stores also known as BLS Touchpoints, including PoS services, ticketing services, assisted e-commerce services, etc. The revenue generated under this business segment is through registration fees; transaction-based commissions on goods and services supplied; and support service charges. It also provides a variety of assisted e-services through retailers and digital stores also known as BLS Touchpoints, including PoS services, ticketing services, assisted e-commerce services, etc. Their diversified platform allows it to harness deep synergies and provides cross-selling and upselling opportunities to both consumers and businesses.

Objects of the issue:

The net proceeds from the fresh issue will be used towards the following purposes:

  • Strengthening the company’s technology infrastructure to develop new capabilities and consolidate its existing platforms;
  • Funding initiatives for organic growth by setting up of BLS Stores;
  • Achieving inorganic growth through acquisitions; and
  • General corporate purposes.

Investment Rationale:

Asset light business model

BLSe’s merchant-led models are a capital-light business strategy for network expansion. The company has developed its technology platform and continues to invest in it for further improvements, which allows it to service a wide pool of citizens and merchants and cater to their diversified requirements. The premises from which BLS Touchpoints and the BLS Stores operate are owned/leased by their merchants and it provides them with the necessary technology and other infrastructure (as applicable) enabling them to extend their services to the end consumers. The company incurs minimal capital expenditure in connection with onboarding the merchants because the onboarding and setting up capital expenditure costs are borne by the merchants themselves, such as any existing physical premises, laptop, mobile phone, internet connectivity, micro ATM, and AePS devices and fingerprint and/or IRIS scanners, and our technology significantly simplifies our merchant onboarding and training process, making it cost-effective for the merchant and efficient for both parties. In addition to their merchant network which, as of September 30, 2023, was over 98,000, to reach the underserved and unserved populations in hard-to-reach locations (referred to as the “last mile” of delivery). The company’s focus on operational execution in connection with the merchants, the drive to offer a broad range of products through each of these distribution channels, and the capital invested into its technology infrastructure, have resulted to be one of the most effective business models.

Multiple cross-selling and up-selling opportunities, network effect, and wide reach for customer acquisition

BLSe can bring together the advantages of G2C, B2B, and B2C models within a single platform, and provide many touch points for the consumer and back-end entities, thereby enhancing the customer footfall by 4,04,153 consumers at its BLS Touchpoints and BLS Stores and to increase scalability.This, coupled with the wide range of products and services that complement each other, results in multiple cross-selling and upselling opportunities, network effects, and wide reach for customer acquisition. Due to the company’s ability to cross-sell various complementary products and services, in addition to its presence in multiple industries, it typically has low marketing and business promotion expenses and thus, improved opportunities for profitability and unit economics metrics. Accordingly, it has a high operating leverage business model, allowing it to reduce customer onboarding costs over time. Furthermore, BLSe’s newly launched, BLS Sewa app is a one-stop solution for all its products and services such as edutech services, domestic money transfer, PAN card application, bus and air ticketing services, railway ticketing services, banking services, AePS-enabled cash services, recharges, demat account opening, bill payments, etc.

Valuation and Outlook:

India’s digitization efforts have evolved the digital and financial services landscape at a rapid pace. Several existing players are working on delivering these digital services across India. The business of digital service providers can be classified into three broad categories. Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG) formulated the National e-Governance Service Delivery Assessment (NeSDA) in 2019 to boost governance endeavors and drive digital government excellence. With the increase in digital adaptation, the demand for various other services has also increased. The increasing digitalization is boosting the market for insurance services, online ticketing, assisted e-commerce, bill payments, tele-medicine, tele-agriculture, digital learning, etc. in urban, semi-urban, and rural areas. With huge touch points of the business correspondent companies, they can provide these services to even the remotest areas. Additionally, even retail/wholesale stores can distribute and/or sell their products through these companies’ touch points. It will pave the way for additional income for business correspondent companies. We believe BLSe’s top and bottom lines are attributed to its recent acquisitions, and the trends will continue with more acquisitions planned. BLS E-Services witnessed the highest revenue growth of 50.8%, with the highest EBITDA and PAT margins at an average of 33.8% and 18.2% respectively in H1FY24. Turning to valuations, the PE ratio stands at 33.1x based on the annualized FY24E EPS which appears reasonable compared to peers in the industry. Based on the positives discussed, we give the issue a “SUBSCRIBE” rating.

Nova AgriTech Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE

Nova AgriTech Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE
  • Date

    22nd Jan 2023 - 24th Jan 2023

  • Price Range

    Rs. 39 to Rs. 41

  • Minimum Order Quantity

    365

Company Overview

Incorporated in 2007, Nova AgriTech Ltd. is a distinguished agri-input manufacturer, specializing in the development and provision of cutting-edge solutions for soil health management, crop nutrition, and crop protection. The company adopts a technology-driven, farmer-centric approach, offering ecologically sustainable and nutritionally balanced products derived from extensive research and development endeavours. With a diverse product portfolio, Nova AgriTech Ltd. encompasses soil health management, crop nutrition, bio-stimulant, bio-pesticide, Integrated Pest Management, new technologies, and crop protection categories. Currently, the production of crop protection products is facilitated by its subsidiary, Nova Agri Sciences Private Limited. As of November 30, 2023, the company boasts a commendable total of 720 product registrations. These registrations are distributed across various categories, including 7 in soil health management, 176 in crop nutrition, 4 in bio-pesticide, 7 under technical indigenous manufacturing, and 526 in the crop protection segment. Moreover, Nova has established a robust network of dealers, totalling approximately 11,722, with 6,769 active dealers facilitating the distribution and sale of products. The company’s dealer network spans 16 states in India, namely Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir. Additionally, Nova AgriTech has expanded its presence internationally through strategic agreements in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, awaiting the necessary permissions to commence operations in these jurisdictions. Significantly, a substantial portion (~84.4%) of Nova AgriTech Ltd’s revenue is derived from the distribution of products in the three southern states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana. The company’s commitment to innovation, sustainable practices, and widespread market presence positions it as a key player in the agri-input sector.

Objects of the issue:

The net proceeds from the fresh issue will be used towards the following purposes:

  • To carry Investment in the subsidiary, Nova Agri Sciences Pvt. Ltd., for setting up a new formulation plant;
  • Funding capital expenditure in the company towards expansion of the existing formulation plant;
  • Funding of working capital requirements of the company;
    Investment in subsidiary, Nova Agri Sciences Pvt. Ltd., for funding working capital requirements; and
  • General corporate purposes.

Investment Rationale:

Expanding farmer outreach for sustainable growth

Nova AgriTech Ltd. demonstrates a proactive approach to engage with farmers through its Nova Kisan Seva Kendra program (NKSK). With 24 agri-graduate NKSK coordinators and collaborations with 96 Kisan Mitras and 142 Kisan Sevaks at the grassroot level, the company ensures a robust three-tier program for personalized farmer interactions. This farmer-centric approach not only strengthens Nova’s connection with the agricultural ecosystem but also establishes a broad and loyal customer base. By deepening its farmer outreach, Nova AgriTech is well-positioned for sustainable growth. The personalized connections forged through NKSK facilitate a better understanding of farmer needs, leading to informed product development and tailored solutions. This strategy contributes to Nova’s resilience in the market, fostering customer loyalty and providing a solid foundation for future revenue growth.

Technological innovation driving competitive edge

Nova AgriTech distinguishes itself through technology-driven product development, leveraging innovation to address dynamic market demands. The introduction of ground-breaking devices like BHUPARIKSHAK, capable of detecting soil health in 90 seconds, and the DGCA-approved agricultural drone, Nova AGRIBOT, showcases the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of agri-technology. The Nova Kisan Seva Kendra Application and collaborations with educational institutions further underscore Nova’s dedication to technology transfer and continuous improvement. Nova’s technological prowess provides it with a competitive edge in the agricultural sector. The ability to swiftly adapt to market changes and offer innovative solutions enhances Nova’s market share. Additionally, its subsidiary NASPL has entered into an agreement for import and distribution of specialized herbicides with a Taiwanese entity to act as the distributor for sales and formulation of Butachlor 85% Tech in India for a period of five years. NASPL has also entered into an agreement with a Chinese entity to act as the distributor for sales and formulation of Emamectin Benzoate Technical 95% in India for a period of five years. With a focus on expanding manufacturing capacities, introducing new formulation types, and importing Technicals (specialized herbicides and insecticides) through strategic partnerships, Nova AgriTech is poised for market expansion and increased competitiveness. Nova is positioning itself as a forward-looking player in the agriculture industry, driven by technology-driven differentiation and continuous research and development efforts.

Valuation and Outlook:

Nova AgriTech is strategically positioned to capitalize on the substantial growth potential within the Indian agricultural sector, projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% over the next five years. The government’s focus on enhancing farm productivity, coupled with initiatives like Minimum Support Price (MSP) and natural farming, creates a conducive environment for sustained growth. The company’s expansion plans, funded by IPO proceeds, align with the industry’s upward trajectory, emphasizing the potential for future success. In addition to the favorable market conditions, Nova AgriTech boasts two key qualitative advantages. Its well-established distribution network across cities and a robust farmer outreach program ensure a high degree of acceptance for its products. Furthermore, the company’s commitment to environmentally friendly solutions, supported by a well-equipped R&D facility and experienced employees, positions Nova AgriTech as a one-stop solution provider. Financially, Nova AgriTech has demonstrated robust and steady revenue growth over the last three years. Notably, the net profit margins have experienced a significant and commendable expansion during this period. With an impressive ROE of 32.1%, ROA at 11.3%, and PAT margins of 9.7%, the company exhibits attractive financial metrics in a highly competitive segment. The comfortable asset turnover ratio and efficient asset utilization indicate the potential for sustained profitability. Turning to valuations, the PE ratio stands at 12.3x based on the annualized diluted H1FY24 EPS which appears relatively low compared to peers in the industry. The valuation outlook hinges on Nova AgriTech’s ability to maintain its current sales growth rate, preserve net margins, and gradually improve them. Based on the positives discussed, we give the issue a “SUBSCRIBE” rating.

 

EPACK Durable Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE

EPACK Durable Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE
  • Date

    19th Jan 2024 - 23rd Jan 2024

  • Price Range

    Rs. 218 to Rs. 230

  • Minimum Order Quantity

    65

Company Overview

Established in 2003, EPACK Durable Ltd. is engaged in the business of design and manufacture of complete room air conditioners (RAC). It is the second largest original design manufacturer (ODM) in the room air conditioning space in terms of number of units manufactured in India. Commencing its operations as an OEM for RAC brands in 2003 with a single manufacturing unit in Dehradun, the company has evolved into number of businesses such as ODM for RACs, manufacturing of window and split ACs, manufacturing of induction cooktops, mixer grinders, heat exchangers, cross flow fans, axial fans, copper fabricated products, induction coils etc. The company is a consumer-centric business that is driven by its focus on continuous innovation and operational efficiency. Over the years, the company has identified various opportunities to improve the value addition in its offerings to its customers and commenced manufacturing of various components that are actively used in manufacturing RACs. Due to such foresightedness, the company currently has three vertically integrated manufacturing facilities at Bhiwadi, Sri City and Dehradun which enables it to maintain operational costs and manage logistics. The company’s strong manufacturing capability build over the years has helped it to leverage the manufacturing prowess to venture into the manufacturing of small domestic appliances, thereby saving itself from a potentially high capex. Having over 100 years of cumulative promoter experience and a demonstrated ability to successfully create, build and grow businesses, the company has established a deep customer relationship and achieved brand value in the market.

Objects of the issue:

The net proceeds from the fresh issue will be used towards the following purposes;

  • Funding capital expenditure for the expansion/setting up of manufacturing facilities;
  • Repayment and/or prepayment, in part or in full, of certain outstanding loans of the company and
  • General corporate purposes.

Investment Rationale:

Long-standing relationships with established customers, with a potential to expand the customer base

Over the course of its business, the company has established long-standing relationships with a number of well-known Indian and global customers. The average length of relationship with its RAC customers is 8.7 years and with SDA customers is 6.3 years. Some of the prominent long-standing customers include Blue Star Ltd., Daikin Air Conditioning India Pvt. Ltd., Carrier Midea Pvt. Ltd., Voltas Ltd., Havells India Ltd., Haier Appliances (India) Pvt. Ltd., Bajaj Electricals Ltd., Usha International Ltd. among others. The growth of the company and expansion of its market share can be attributed to its relationship with customers and the company intends to leverage such relationship for future growth as well. As of Q2FY24 and FY23, the top five customers accounted for 79.62% and 82.66% of its revenue from operations, respectively, which demonstrates the trust of customers on the company over the years. The company has always focused on quality, ability to respond to any demand volatility with agility, the ability to maintain a consistent supply of products, the ability to work with customers from the product conceptualization stage, and the price competitiveness of its products in order to help it establish and maintain long term relationships with its customers. The company strives to innovate and offer value-added and technologically advanced products and solutions to its customers. By doing so, the company seeks to deepen its customer relationships with the objective of becoming their preferred supplier. 

Advanced vertically integrated manufacturing operations, with product portfolio aimed at capturing the full spectrum of RAC and SDA value chain

The company has the highest amount of backward integration for RACs at a single location that has been grown within the same company organically in India. With its manufacturing operations being concentrated within Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Bhiwadi, Rajasthan and Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, the company is in a position to regulate and monitor its operations more closely, assisting itself in its objective of lowering operational costs and maintaining efficient logistics management. The company’s products and corresponding components are manufactured within the same location, which helps it eliminate costs typically incurred in the transportation of parts between facilities. In addition to the the manufacturing and assembling of RACs and SDAs, the company also manufactures various RAC and SDA components such as heat exchangers, cross flow fans, axial fans, injection moulded components, copper fabricated components, PCBA’s, etc. thereby facilitating the backward integration of its manufacturing operations. In addition to diversifying the revenue streams, manufacturing of components has enabled the company to be an integrated solutions provider and accordingly, allows them to cater to all aspects of the RAC and SDA manufacturing value chain. The company offers customized manufacturing solutions that range from assembly-only to near-complete integrated manufacturing which may only involve external sourcing of compressors and RAC motors, depending on the client’s requirements, with the endeavor to capture the entire product value chain. Further, the current RAC product offerings such as window air conditioners, window inverter air conditioners, and split air conditioners enable the company to offer further customization to RAC brands in terms of completely built-up units or IDUs and ODUs separately. Additionally, the vertical integration of manufacturing operations has helped it to efficiently improve the quality of products and minimize dependency on third-party suppliers, which has allowed the company to increase control over its manufacturing lead time and costs.

Valuation and Outlook:

From being the world’s fifth largest economy as of FY23 and having a gross domestic product of USD 3.75 trillion, India is poised to grow at a stable rate of 6% and achieve the third largest economy status in the future. The ongoing structural reforms by the Government of India such as infrastructure development, disinvestment, higher FDI limits, and projects like national infrastructure policy and national logistics policy are about to yield fruitful results in various domains in the coming period. An interesting trend has been observed in global economics that when an economy exceeds the USD 2,000 per capita mark, the country’s economy is poised to grow at a faster pace than before. Also, such an event has shown a positive impact on the consumer electronics market in the past. With India reaching the inflection point of USD 2,000 per capita income in CY2020, it aims to reach the USD 10,000 per capita mark by CY2047, thereby growing at the rate of 7% yearly and achieving a USD 20 trillion economy status. As of today, such impact on the growth of consumer electronics market post the USD 2,000 per capita achievement mark is seen in the increasing government schemes for consumer electronic industries.  On the industry front, the Indian consumer durables ODM market is estimated to be Rs. 300 billion in FY23 out of which Room Air Conditioning manufacturing has a 19% share which is approximately Rs. 57 billion. Nowadays, split air conditioning systems have gained popularity compared to window ACs, with split ACs forming 87% of the market share. Also, the penetration rate of room air conditioners in India is lower at 8% compared to 42% globally. Therefore, we believe that sectoral tailwinds such as increasing global temperatures, higher consumer purchasing power and spending, favorable government policies, increased urbanization, and increased domestic consumption of RACs would benefit the company in the long term. Additionally, long-standing relationships with marquee customers, diverse product portfolio, backward integrated manufacturing facilities and strong management experience in the field of component and RAC manufacturing positions the company favorably for the future. On the financial performance front, the company’s Revenue/EBITDA/PAT grew at a CAGR of 44.6%/56.2%/102.5% during the FY2021-23 period. On the upper price band, the issue is valued at a P/E of 49.6x based on FY2023 earnings which we feel is fairly valued and is lower than its comparable peers. We, therefore, recommend a “Subscribe” rating to the issue from a medium to long-term perspective.

 

Medi Assist Healthcare Ltd IPO : SUBSCRIBE

  • Date

    15th Jan, 2024 - 17th Jan, 2024

  • Price Range

    Rs. 397 to Rs. 418

  • Minimum Order Quantity

    35

Company Overview

Medi Assist is a Bengaluru-based health-tech and insure-tech company that administers health benefits to employers, retail members and public health schemes. The company provides third-party   administration services to insurance companies through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Medi Assist TPA, Advantage TPA and Raksha TPA. A third-party administrator is an organization that processes health insurance claims for insurance companies and provides services such as policy administration, customer service and network management. As a third-party administrator, the company acts as a facilitator between Insurance companies and their policyholders, Insurance companies and healthcare providers (such as hospitals) and the Government and beneficiaries of public health schemes. The company also facilitate other healthcare and ancillary services such as hospitalization services, call centre services, customer relations and contract management services, billing services and claims processing services through the company and other Subsidiaries, IHMS, Mayfair India, Mayfair UK, Mayfair Group Holding, Mayfair Philippines and Mayfair Singapore. The company has developed a pan-India healthcare provider network which comprises 18,754 hospitals across 1,069 cities and towns and 31 states (including union territories) in India and a network across 141 countries globally as of September 30, 2023.

Objects of the issue:

The net proceeds from the fresh issue will be used towards the following purposes:

  • Achieve the benefits of listing the Equity Shares on the Stock Exchange;
  • Offer for sale – Rs. 1171.58 crores;
  • General corporate purposes. 

Investment Rationale:

Well-established Third-Party Administrator in India

Medi Assist provides third-party administration services to insurance companies through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Medi Assist TPA, Advantage TPA and Raksha TPA. The company believes that a market-leading position as a third-party administrator in India enhances the ability to benefit from the prospects of the health insurance industry, enhances profitability and strengthens value proposition due to increasing economies of scale, ability to invest in cutting-edge technology and better scale for negotiating with healthcare provider networks. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a fundamental and lasting shift in behaviour across both the retail and group segments. This shift has significantly driven substantial growth for several TPAs, including Medi Assist over the past three Financial Years, despite the economic downturn caused by the pandemic in 2021. During FY23, retail and group premiums increased by 31.91% compared to the previous year, partly due to the heightened awareness of the need for adequate health insurance brought on by the pandemic. This trend continues to support growth in the overall sector. With the company’s leading market position, technology-enabled ecosystem, longstanding relationships with insurers, hospitals and corporates and pan-India presence, Medi Assist is well-positioned to take advantage of this growth.

Longstanding Relationships with a Majority of Insurance Companies

Medi Assist interacts with many participants in the health insurance ecosystem and generates revenues predominantly from health and other general insurance companies. Over the years, the company leveraged the domain expertise of the Indian health insurance ecosystem to establish trust and strengthen longstanding relationships with these insurance companies. Insurance companies benefit from a diverse range of services and the ability to manage many products and services. The company has developed a longstanding client base of insurance companies where their clients trust and rely on its services, technology infrastructure and expertise built over several years of experience for day-to-day aspects of their businesses. The average relationship term with the four PSU insurance companies was 20 years, and with 23 non-PSU sector insurance companies, it was nine years as of September 30, 2023. The company share of retail and group benefits administration premiums under management from non-PSU insurance companies has increased from 14.65% in FY21 to 21.3% in FY23 and 24.3% during the six months ended September 30, 2023

Valuation and Outlook:

Medi Assist interacts with many participants in the health insurance ecosystem and generates revenues predominantly from health and other general insurance companies. Over the years, the company leveraged the domain expertise of the Indian health insurance ecosystem to establish trust and strengthen longstanding relationships with these insurance companies. Insurance companies benefit from a diverse range of services and the ability to manage many products and services. The company has developed a longstanding client base of insurance companies where their clients trust and rely on its services, technology infrastructure and expertise built over several years of experience for day-to-day aspects of their businesses. The average relationship term with the four PSU insurance companies was 20 years, and with 23 non-PSU sector insurance companies, it was nine years as of September 30, 2023. The company share of retail and group benefits administration premiums under management from non-PSU insurance companies has increased from 14.65% in FY21 to 21.3% in FY23 and 24.3% during the six months ended September 30, 2023

Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd IPO : AVOID

Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd IPO : AVOID
  • Date

    09th Jan 2024 - 11th Jan 2024

  • Price Range

    Rs. 315 to Rs. 331

  • Minimum Order Quantity

    45

Company Overview

Incorporated in the year 1991, Jyoti CNC Automation Limited is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of metal-cutting computer numerical control (CNC) machines. Its range of machines includes CNC turning centers, CNC turning-milling centers, CNC vertical machining centers (VMCs), CNC horizontal machining centers (HMCs), simultaneous 3-axis CNC machining centers, simultaneous 5-axis CNC machining centers and multi-tasking machines. The company has an impressive client base from the defence sector and this includes Space Application Centre (ISRO), BrahMos Aerospace, Turkish Aerospace, Tata Advances System, Tata Sikorsky Aerospace, Bharat Forge, Shreeram Aerospace & Defence, Harsha Engineers, Bosch Ltd etc. In the last 3 years, Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd has supplied more than 7,200 machines to over 3,000 customers across the globe. It has delivered a total of 30,000 plus CNC machines since 2004. For global distribution, Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd leverages the established dealer network of Huron, which as sales and service centers across Romania, France, Poland, Belgium, Italy, and UK. Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd has a total of 3 manufacturing facilities. While two of the facilities are located in Rajkot in Gujarat, the third facility is located at Strasbourg, France. It has a total manufacturing capacity of around 4,521 CNC machines, of which it can produce 4,400 machines annually in India and 121 machines annually at its Strasbourg in France.

Objects of the issue:

The net proceeds from the fresh issue will be used towards the following purposes:

  • Repayment and/ or pre-payment, in full or part, of certain borrowings availed by the company;
  • Funding long-term working capital requirements of the company; and
  • General corporate purposes.

Investment Rationale:

Strong market leadership and global presence fuelling revenue growth

Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd. stands out as India’s third biggest player in CNC machine manufacturing, commanding a significant 10% market share as of FY23. Furthermore, its global footprint is noteworthy, securing the twelfth-largest market share globally at 0.4% in CY22. The strong robust market positioning of the company is backed by a diversified customer base which includes marquee clients such as ISRO, Bharat Forge, and Turkish Aerospace, reflecting deep-rooted customer relationships and trust. The company’s strong market presence translates into sustained revenue growth, evidenced by a 25% rise in revenue in FY23 compared to the previous fiscal year. The well-established track record, coupled with a substantial order book of Rs 3,315.3 crores as of 1HFY24, of which aerospace and defense make up 57%, positions Jyoti CNC Automation for continued financial success. The strategic geographical presence across 16 countries, combined with a focus on technological advancements, positions the company to capitalize on the expected 18.4% global growth in 4-6 Axis machining centers from FY23 to FY27.

Vertical integration and technological innovation enhance the competitive edge

Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd.’s vertically integrated operations, with three manufacturing facilities and a dedicated R&D team, provide a distinct competitive advantage. This integration allows the company to deliver customization and production efficiencies, reducing dependence on third parties and streamlining the production process. The company’s commitment to technological innovation is evident through its diverse product portfolio, including simultaneous 5-axis CNC machines and solutions aligned with ‘Industry 4.0’ trends, incorporating features like the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT). This vertical integration and emphasis on technology result in a well-diversified product basket, including over 200 variants across 44 series. The company’s ability to offer highly customized solutions, such as the ‘7th Sense’ package (an i4.0 solution capable of performing mundane and repeat tasks independently allowing humans to focus on the outcomes of these operations), further strengthens its position as an industry leader. With a dedicated R&D team of 141 employees and a continuous focus on advancements like ‘Linear Motor Technology,’ the company is well-prepared to meet evolving industry demands. This not only enhances its competitiveness but positions the company to leverage opportunities presented by government initiatives like ‘Make in India,’ ‘Aatma Nirbhar Bharat,’ and PLI schemes, fostering future growth in the CNC machining industry.

Valuation and Outlook:

The CNC Machine Production, Domestic Consumption Market, Import, and Export market in India is poised for substantial expansion between FY2023 and FY2027 at a noteworthy CAGR of 13.7%, 11%, 7.6% and 14.2% respectively. This growth is underpinned by heightened demand from crucial sectors such as automobiles, consumer durables, and aerospace. The industry is progressively shifting towards advanced CNC machines, propelled by the escalating intricacy of tasks. While the 2-3 Axis CNC machines dominate India’s CNC consumption due to their cost-effectiveness, the exigency for precision manufacturing in automotive, defense, and aerospace is projected to drive demand for more sophisticated technologies. Qualitatively, Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd boasts market leadership in India and a substantial global presence in CNC machine manufacturing. Deep-rooted customer relationships, vertical integration for end-to-end operations, and a proven track record in executing large-scale projects add to its strengths. Subsequently, examining the financials of Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd reveals robust revenue growth in the last three years and a recent turnaround in net profits after two years of losses. Due to prior losses, the ROE and ROA are pertinent only for the latest year. The company’s net profit margin remains tepid at 1.58%, while ROE stands robust at 41.5%. In the case of Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd’s business model, the focal points are the client base and the margins generated from clients. Jyoti plans to utilize the IPO proceeds to substantially reduce its long-term debt by approximately 50%, instigating a significant improvement in the balance sheet leverage. While the pricing may appear ambitious, potential investors might view Jyoti CNC Automation Ltd as a strategic investment aligned with the burgeoning defense sector in India. The company’s high growth trajectory positions it as a proxy play on the escalating demand for defense orders, akin to the outperformance witnessed in other defense stocks. The steep P/E ratio of 324x based on the latest year diluted EPS of Rs. 1.02 warrants scrutiny, especially when juxtaposed with the peer group’s P/E ratio. The market’s optimism appears contingent on the company’s anticipated profitability surge in the ensuing years. We, therefore, give the issue an “AVOID” rating.