Showing posts with label EDELWEISS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label EDELWEISS. Show all posts

Friday, September 14, 2012

>DLF


Debt levels stay high, operating cash flow sparse to service interest
DLF’s net debt increased to ~INR227bn in FY12 as against ~INR214bn in FY11 despite the asset monetization of INR17.74bn. The company’s operating cash flow (estimated at INR15.3bn, ex–land sales) remained insufficient to service interest and dividends (INR36bn) and capex (estimated at INR8.7bn), leading to higher net debt.

Focus on asset divestment to accelerate cash flows
Interest payment of ~INR30bn in FY12 has eaten away the operating cash flows (exland sales) of ~INR15.3bn. The company has plans to cut debt by ~INR50bn in FY13 through non-core sales which would then help ease the interest burden. 

Outlook and valuations: Deleveraging the trigger; maintain ‘BUY’
DLF’s operating cash flows in FY12 were insufficient to service interest payments due to a weak approval cycle between Q1FY11 and Q2FY12. DLF has set out to reduce debt by ~INR50bn in FY13 driven by non-core asset sales which will ease the interest burden. Further, expected launch of Magnolias Phase II in H2FY13 will strengthen its operating cash flows. We value the company at INR263/share, implying that the stock is trading at 18% discount to its fair value. Maintain ‘BUY/Sector Performer’.

To read report in detail: DLF

>JSW STEEL


Sufficient iron ore to meet FY13 production guidance
As per the management, JSW has sufficient iron ore to meet its FY13 crude steel production guidance of 8.5mt (our assumption 8mt). With restart of category A mines in Karnataka (mining at first mine has commenced), the company expects a total of 17 mines to start operations till December 2012 with a total capacity of 7mt. The pending auction of ~4mt of iron ore inventory and possibility of blending low grade iron ore lends further visibility to iron ore availability. With possible restart of category B mines, JSW expects ~25mt of iron ore (including NMDC) to be available in FY14. We are keeping our FY14 production estimate unchanged at 9.7mt.

JSW Ispat: Turnaround story in two years
Ispat is currently operating at an EBITDA run rate of INR12bn p.a. However, with expected benefits of INR3bn from power plant and other projects (55MW plant to commission by January 2013), INR2bn from coke oven batteries (expected  commissioning in September 2013), and INR10bn from the pelletisation plant (expected by March 2014), the EBIDTA will surge to over INR27bn. The project capex is expected to yield high RoE of ~25%.

Outlook and valuations: Retain estimates; maintain ‘BUY’
We maintain that the restart of mining in Karnataka will be a key trigger for JSW. We continue to value JSW at 5.5x and Ispat at 4.0x FY14E EV/EBITDA which yields target price of INR868. Maintain ‘BUY/Sector Outperformer’. At CMP, the stock trades at 3.1x FY14E EV/EBITDA of our pre-merger financials.

To read report in detail: JSW STEEL

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

>DLF


Debt levels stay high, operating cash flow sparse to service interest
DLF’s net debt increased to ~INR227bn in FY12 as against ~INR214bn in FY11 despite the asset monetization of INR17.74bn. The company’s operating cash flow (estimated at INR15.3bn, ex–land sales) remained insufficient to service interest and dividends (INR36bn) and capex (estimated at INR8.7bn), leading to higher net debt.

Focus on asset divestment to accelerate cash flows
Interest payment of ~INR30bn in FY12 has eaten away the operating cash flows (exland sales) of ~INR15.3bn. The company has plans to cut debt by ~INR50bn in FY13 through non-core sales which would then help ease the interest burden. Outlook and valuations: Deleveraging the trigger; maintain ‘BUY’

DLF’s operating cash flows in FY12 were insufficient to service interest payments due to a weak approval cycle between Q1FY11 and Q2FY12. DLF has set out to reduce debt by ~INR50bn in FY13 driven by non-core asset sales which will ease the interest burden. Further, expected launch of Magnolias Phase II in H2FY13 will strengthen its operating cash flows. We value the company at INR263/share, implying that the stock is trading at 18% discount to its fair value. Maintain ‘BUY/Sector Performer’.

To read report in detail: DLF

Saturday, September 8, 2012

>DISH TV INDIA


SD-DVR innovation, aggressive ad spends driving growth
Dish TV’s newly launched SD-DVR in Phase 1 and 2 areas of digitisation (42 cities) has met with an impressive response so far due to its ability to record unlimited SD content at a lower price than rival HD-DVRs (INR1,690 versus ~INR6,000). We do not expect other DTH companies and MSOs to launch an SD recorder in the near term, which will give Dish TV an advantage to target Phase 1 and 2 subscribers. The company has hiked ads in major newspapers in Phase 1 areas and also restarted ads on TV channels. In spite of the increase in ad expense in Q2FY13, management reiterated that the company will not exceed its ad budget and things are moving as per plan. 

Operational metrics on track
The free cash generation remains on track and no fund raising will be required for Phase 1. The company added ~0.5mn gross subscribers in Q1FY13 (0.41mn in Q4FY12), taking total gross subscriber base to 13.4mn and net subscriber base to 9.8mn. Churn rate continues to remain at ~1%. ARPUs will continue to increase in the near term from the current INR156 due to price hikes and higher HD penetration.

Outlook and valuations: Positive; maintain ‘BUY’
We expect Dish TV to benefit during the digitisation process due to its huge brand and limited ability of smaller MSOs to switch to the digital platform. At CMP of INR66, the stock is trading at EV/EBITDA of 12.1x and 8.8x FY13E and FY14E, respectively. We maintain ‘BUY’ and assign ‘Sector Performer’ rating to the stock.

To read report in detail: DISH TV

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

>KALPATARU POWER

Kalpataru Power’s (KPP) Q1FY13 numbers were above our estimates adjusting for INR130mn of forex (mark to market) loss. While revenue grew 20% YoY, margin declined 60bps YoY to 10.8% (adjusting for forex loss) primarily due to higher input cost. Order inflow dipped 33% YoY to INR6bn in the absence of any big-ticket order during the quarter. The company has lowered its FY13 EBITDA margin guidance for JMC from 7-8% to 6-7% on back of increased volatility in commodity prices. Maintain ‘HOLD’ with revised target price of INR 78 (earlier 84).

Margin pressure sustains; execution remains steady
KPP’s revenue grew a healthy 20% YoY, better than estimate. Margin (adjusted for forex loss) fell 60bps YoY to 10.8%, owing to higher input costs. Adjusted PAT increased 20% YoY to INR404mn. At JMC, revenue surged 51% YoY to INR5.7bn. However, margin plunged 290bps YoY to 5% due to high volatility in commodity prices primarily in cement and steel. For JMC, management has trimmed its FY13 margin guidance to 6-7% from 7- 8% earlier. KPP’s capital employed increased 16% YoY as the infra division’s capital employed doubled on increased debtor balance.

New orders down 33 % YoY; order book flat at INR 60.5 bn YoY
The company’s order inflow declined 33% YoY to INR6bn, owing to weak project awards. KPP stated that the order pipeline is healthy and it anticipates orders from MEENA region and CIS countries apart from PGCIL. The company’s standalone and consolidated order backlog stands at INR60.5bn (flat YoY) and INR116bn (up 10% YoY), respectively.

Outlook and valuations: Cautious; maintain ‘HOLD’
While we do not expect any upside in KPP’s operating profitability in the near to medium term, rising input cost in key subsidiary (JMC Projects) remains a concern, with limited pricing power. We maintain our ‘HOLD/SP’ recommendation with a Target price of INR 78(earlier 84) as we remain cautious on the company’s incremental order intake and margin profile given rising competition and higher working capital issues. The stock, on consolidated basis, is currently trading at P/E of 5.1x and 4.3x on FY13E and FY14E, respectively.


Key conference call highlights
• Forex loss: KPP stated that there was a forex loss (mark to market) of INR130mn on account of USD denominated loan and commodities, of which INR50mn has been charged to other operating expenses and INR80mn to interest cost.

• FY13E guidance: Management has reduced JMC margin guidance of 7-8% to 6-7% for FY13E on back of increased volatility in commodity prices with revenue guidance of 35-
50%. The company maintains its capex guidance for FY13E at around INR2bn (INR1bn
for KPP, INR 0.4-0.5 bn for JMC and INR400-500mn for Shri Subham Logistics etc).

• Infra projects update: The company has achieved financial closure of all 4 road BOOT projects viz., Rohtak Bowel (COD expected by Q4FY13), Agra–Aligarh (COD expected by Q2FY14), Bagpur Waiganga (COD expected by Q2FY15) and Rewa MP project (COD
expected by Q4FY15).

• Update on Subham Logistics- Subham Logistics posted revenue growth of 15% in Q1FY13 with EBIDTA margin of 14% and PBT of INR0.7mn. FY13E management guidance stands at 35 % revenue growth with EBIDTA levels at 15-16 %.

• Capex at INR 2 bn for FY13E- The company’s new tower manufacturing plant at Raipur is on track and is expected to start by September 2012 with INR 1 bn as capex. Also, JMC & Subham logistics will have capex equally at INR 500 mn.

• KPP stated that while ~60% of its order book is covered by price variation clause, ~40% is fixed price book.

• The company targets to maintain its debt (consol) at INR13-14bn by end FY13E, which currently stood at INR 15 bn and is likely to come down by FY13E end.

• 0% tax rate in JMC in Q1FY13 due to exemption in case of certain infra projects.

RISH TRADER

>NAVABHARAT VENTURES

Nava Bharat Ventures’ (NBV) Q1FY13 adjusted standalone earnings came in at INR684mn, higher than our estimate of INR511mn. Earnings from the power business were up due to higher merchant realization of ~INR5/kwh (estimated INR4/kwh) while the sustained performance of the ferro alloys division aided profits further. Commissioning of pipeline capacities and a scale up in Zambia mines will boost earnings, going forward. Maintain ‘BUY’ with target price of INR290/share.

Adjusted PAT better than estimates
NBV’s standalone revenue at INR2.7bn was in line with our estimates of INR2.6bn though the adjusted PAT at INR684mn (INR33mn of forex losses) was better than our estimate of INR511mn. Power segment performance was robust on the back of a better‐than‐expected net merchant realisation of ~INR5/kwh during the quarter against our full year average estimate of INR4/unit. While costs for the Ferro alloy division have gone up, realizations have also increased 18% YoY to INR60K/t, improving the performance of the division. The management is guiding for a sale volume of 75KT of silico manganese and a 50KT conversion agreement with Tata steel.

Projects in pipeline on track
The under construction Orissa 64MW unit is expected to be synchronized in Q4FY13 post approval from the Orissa Power Transmission Company. Zambia coal mines have begun sale of high grade coal locally (sold ~6K tonnes, yielding PBT of @USD10/tonne in Q1) and are likely to scale up from 400KT in FY13 to 1MT by the end FY15. The older Orissa 64MW plant, which was under Section 11, has resumed operations and is selling ~20MW to GRIDCO and the balance on merchant (through the exchange).

Outlook and valuations: Near term trigger; maintain ‘BUY’
With the commissioning of Orissa 64MW project as the near term trigger and higher merchant prices tied up in the short term, we expect earnings to be firm. At CMP of INR191/share, the stock is trading at an attractive multiple of 7x and 6x FY13E and FY14E earnings respectively. Maintain ‘BUY’ with SOTP based TP of INR290/share.

To read report in detail: NAVABHARAT VENTURES

RISH TRADER

Thursday, August 9, 2012

>BHARAT ELECTRONICS LIMITED:Rohini radars

Bharat Electronics (BEL) reported weak sales and order intake during Q1FY13. While sales dipped on continued deferrals and approval process delays from clients, order intake prospects remain bright for the coming one-two years on back of strong demand. Higher raw material costs coupled with unfavorable sales mix (low value adds items) impacted OPMs, which are expected to improve in balance FY13. Maintain ‘BUY’.

Approval delays hit sales volume; adverse sales mix impacts OPMs
BEL reported 15% YoY decline in revenue for the quarter due to approval delays and slow off take from clients. Management expects balance of FY13 to see decent pick up in both volumes and profitability driven by deliveries for Aakash missiles, Rohini radars and ground-based EW systems, and maintains its FY13 sales growth guidance of 15%. Also, low value add items and higher ToT sales (>20% of sales) impacted profitability. Higher input cost (sharp jump in RM to sales %) during the quarter is expected to come off in the coming quarters as indicated by the management on improved deliveries.

OI dips 22%, but revenue visibility and FY13-14E prospects good 
The company began the year with a quarterly OI of INR8.6bn versus INR11bn in Q1FY12, which is generally a non-material quarter both from execution and fresh awards perspective. Management remains positive on FY13E-14E intake quantum and quality, with sustained proportion of indigenised & DRDO based orders in WLR & EW systems and other missile systems. Also, management expects to form new JVs with a few foreign entities in FY13E which would provide fresh avenues for business wef FY14E & beyond. Company maintains FY13E fresh intake target at INR100bn (up 25 % YoY).

Outlook and valuations: Attractive; maintain ‘BUY’
BEL offers a decent long-term upside potential given its favourable positioning in the domestic defence market. The company has decent revenue growth visibility (book to bill at 3.8x on FY13E sales) and attractive prospects for a sustained order intake growth in the near to medium term with a strong balance sheet and cash in hand of INR65bn plus (67% MCAP). We maintain our ‘BUY/SO’ with a revised TP of INR 1617 (+33% upside), implying a PE of 9.5x on FY14E earnings.

RISH TRADER

Monday, August 6, 2012

>EID PARRY : sugar prices shoot up over the past one month


EID Parry’s (EID) Q1FY13 revenue and adjusted PAT were in line. EBITDA margin expanded 10.8% even as the adjusted PAT at INR782mn is substantially higher than INR314mn YoY. This was on account of robust volume of sugar and better operating leverage. Moreover, the recent sugar price increase by ~20% over the past one month, owing to demand picking up ahead of the festival season and monsoon concerns, is likely to augur well for EID. Over the last one quarter, EID has closed the discounting gap with Coromandel from 35% in April 2012 to 15% currently. However, owing to the improving sugar segment performance coupled with the likely upside in Coromandel International translating into higher valuation, we remain
positive on the stock. Maintain ‘BUY’.


Revenue, adjusted PAT in line, sugar performance improves
EID posted a consolidated revenue growth of 8.6%, EBITDA margin of 10.8% (up 160 bps YoY and 180 bps QoQ) and adj. PAT of INR782mn (up 149%) in line with the expectation.


The strong growth in profitability is primarily on account of an improved performance in the sugar segment which expanded PBIT margin by 830 bps YoY to 1.1% in Q1FY13.


Key highlights – sugar prices shoot up over the past one month


• While the free sale sugar price for EID was at INR27.5/kg in Q1FY13, sugar price in general has shot up by about 20% over the past one month to INR34/kg currently, owing to concerns over monsoon and an incremental demand coming ahead of the festive season. This is likely to augur well for the profitability of EID.


• EID and its subsidiaries crushed 1.82mn MT cane in Q1FY13 (up 19% YoY) vis-à-vis 1.52mn MT in Q1FY12 and 2.69mn MT in Q4FY12. Sugar sales volume was 0.22mn MT on a consolidated basis during Q1FY13(0.16mn MT YoY), out of which, 94,337 MT was exported. Management guides for ~67,000 MT of exports for Q2FY13.


• Management guides for ~8mn MT cane crushing in FY13 vs 6.9mn MT in FY12.


Outlook and valuations: Attractive; maintain ‘BUY’
Factoring in a higher sugar realization, we have increased our EPS estimates by 6.8% and 4.4% for FY13 and FY14 respectively. EID is currently available at an attractive valuation of 6.9x and 5.8x consolidated P/E for FY13E and FY14E respectively. We maintain ‘BUY’ with a revised target price of INR301/share (INR295 earlier).



Other highlights
• Cane crushing during Q1FY13 was 1.82 mn MT (up 19% YoY) on a consolidated basis; it was 1.64 mn MT (up 27%) on a standalone basis.


• Recovery rate improved to 9.21% from 8.71% on YoY basis.


• EID has sugar inventory of ~0.11 mn MT on a consolidated basis in Q1FY13, priced at INR24.5/kg.


• Average sugar realization for the quarter has been at INR27.4/kg – the free sale sugar realization at INR 27.5/kg, levy at INR 19/kg and export realization at 28.5/kg.


• Management guided that sugar price has moved up sharply over the last one month to INR 34/kg currently as it expects the price to sustain at these levels over the next few months owing to an extended festival season this year. However, according to few media articles, the government is likely to consider various options like having a cap on exports (which were freed in May 2012 and put under OGL), removal of import duty and an increment in allocation of sugar for free market sale. Such measures from the government might have some downward pressure on sugar prices.


• Landed cane cost for EID has been at ~INR2,200/MT; this prices in the cost of production of sugar for the company ~INR26.5/kg at the PBIT level.


• Indian sugar production for SS12 stands at 26mn MT. The country may export ~3 mn MT. For SS13, the current sugar production estimate by ISMA is at 25mn MT with a bit of downward bias, owing to weak monsoon. The management guides for a surplus production in India for SS13, giving it a scope to export 1-2 mn MT.


• During Q1FY13, EID had an ethanol sales volume of 9.2mn litres on a standalone basis and 14.8mn liters on a consolidated basis at an average realisation of INR24.8/litre.


• While distillery production volume has gone up, the company had consciously sold lower quantity, owing to weaker ethanol prices. The ENA price was INR28/KL during Q1FY13, which has gone back to INR33/KL currently.


• Consolidated cogen export at 134.6 mn units was up 12% YoY; average realisation at INR3.5/unit.


• Bio-products division (nutraceuticals and bio-pesticides) has posted a consolidated loss of INR5.7mn vis-à-vis loss of INR10.6mn YoY.


• Silkroad Sugar (the sugar refinery) remains shut owing to gas availability issues. To address this issue, the company is setting up a coal boiler and the refinery is expected to start operating within the next 16-18 months.

RISH TRADER

Thursday, August 2, 2012

>SIEMENS AG: Implications for Siemens India

New orders slide


Key highlight of Siemens Q3FY12 results was the 23% decline in its order inflow which was much steeper than expected as customers, wary of European debt crisis, increasingly refrained from making investments. The market environment was less favorable in the third quarter, particularly for Siemens’ industrial short‐cycle businesses. Revenue rose 10% YoY to €19.542bn. The management indicated that the deteriorating environment poses difficult task to achieve their FY12 guidance.


Implications for Siemens India
Order intake from India (all Siemens entities‐India) was up 7% in EUR terms at EUR633mn; adjusted for currency, it was a growth of 16 % YoY. We believe, Siemens India’s order intake could be around INR27bn‐29 bn (up 16 %, YoY) given that largely ~70 % of total business for the parent comes from the listed entity (Siemens India). Order intake from Emerging Markets (India China, Brazil etc) grew 5% YoY, led by strong inflows from India while China order intake declined 5% YoY.


Absence of big ticket size, short cycle business orders thin inflow
Siemens posted a 23% drop in quarterly new orders, steeper than expected, as customers, wary of Europe's debt crisis, increasingly refrained from making investments. The iIndustry sector ‐ the bread and butter of Siemens ‐ has been the worst‐hit among its four segments as demand declined for a range of products including electric drive systems and control machinery for factory assembly lines and amusement park rides. Orders came in at €17.770bn, 23% below the prior‐year period which included a €3.7bn order for trains in
Germany and a substantially higher volume from large orders in Energy. Growth in new order intake for Siemens AG got impacted by a sharp dip in key market of Europe (down 38 % YoY) and Americas (down 19 % YoY). The book‐to‐bill ratio for the quarter was 0.91, and the order backlog was €100bn.


Outlook: Challenging, FY12 guidance seems too ambitious for now
The company has seen growing reluctance among its customers regarding capital expenditures besides strong economic headwinds, especially in its industrial short‐cycle businesses. Siemens expects a moderate organic revenue growth compared to fiscal 2011, and orders exceeding revenues for a book‐to‐bill above 1. Due to lower than expected earnings in its industrial short cycle business and deteriorating environment, it will be very challenging and over ambitious for the company to achieve its guidance of €5.4bn income for FY12.



Other Key Highlights


Higher revenue in all Sectors and regions
All Sectors reported revenue growth in the third quarter, benefiting from currency translation effects. Energy’s growth was supported by conversion from its strong order backlog. Infrastructure & Cities and Industry generated moderate increases. The Americas and Asia, Australia saw double‐digit revenue growth, and the region comprising Europe, the Commonwealth of Independent States, Africa and the Middle East (Europe/CAME) showed a moderate increase. Emerging markets on a global basis grew 8% year‐over‐year, and accounted for €6.329 billion, or 32%, of total revenue for the quarter.


Substantially lower volume from large orders
Both Infrastructure & Cities and Energy saw orders fall due to lower volume from large orders compared to a year earlier. The drop in large order volume YoY was most evident in Europe/CAME and the Americas. Asia, Australia posted moderate growth. Globally, orders grew 5% in emerging markets and accounted for €6.708 billion, or 38%, of total orders for the quarter.

RISH TRADER

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

>VODAFONE

The Vodafone Group announced Q1FY13 interim results. As these are interim results, only operating metrics and revenue performance are disclosed. Vodafone India’s operating metrics continued to remain impressive with voice revenue growth of 4.1% QoQ compared to 5.2% QoQ in Q4FY12, even as total minutes growth (volume) slowed to 4.2% (6.7% in Q4FY12). Stable voice RPM after declining 1.3% QoQ in Q4FY12 is the primary highlight of Q1FY13, in our view. The company refrained from joining its peers, Bharti Airtel (Bharti) and Idea Cellular (Idea), in chasing subscriber market share, which probably helped it maintain voice RPM.


Staying away from the oft beaten path
Vodafone reported revenue growth of 4.1% QoQ in Q1FY13 in India. Its volume (total minutes) growth slowed to 4.1% QoQ as MOU increased 2.1% QoQ compared to 4.7% QoQ in Q4FY12. The stable voice RPM in the quarter compared to a decline of 1.3% QoQ in Q4FY12 indicates that it is reluctant to sacrifice yields for the sake of volume growth. It is clear that the company is focusing on higher ARPU customers, evident in the ARPU trend, which rose for the third consecutive quarter to INR180. Since these are interim numbers, Vodafone does not disclose detailed financials; hence, margin trend is missing. But, as highlighted in our Q4FY12 results note (see table 1 on page 2) the company has been garnering higher EBITDA share than revenue share among the top three operators. Thus, Vodafone has been able to demonstrate its ability to achieve profitable growth through a fine balance between maintaining yields and growing volumes.


Are postpaid customers becoming price elastic?
It is interesting to note that Vodafone’s postpaid ARPU has declined in seven of the past eight quarters while its prepaid ARPU has risen in the past three quarters. It seems that on one hand it is focusing on expanding the postpaid customer base (with lower ARPU than its existing postpaid customers, but still having significantly higher ARPUs than prepaid customers), which is indicated in the decline in postpaid ARPUs, while on other it is focusing on prepaid customers with higher ARPUs, thereby driving its blended ARPU higher. The decline in postpaid ARPU along with the increase in postpaid churn suggests that the company is losing high‐end customers. If this is on account of its reluctance to sacrifice yields, then it debunks the belief that postpaid customers are price inelastic.


Outlook: Expect price discipline
Vodafone has remained disciplined and focused on EBITDA market share. In our view, the industry will be compelled to look at profitable growth post auctions. Unlike Vodafone, we expect, Bharti and Idea to report pressure on RPMs due to their focus on volumes.


To read report in detail: VODAFONE
RISH TRADER

Sunday, July 15, 2012

>Jain Irrigation (JISL) has finally received RBI’s approval to launch its NBFC


Jain Irrigation (JISL) has finally received RBI’s approval to launch its NBFC. This, we believe, will help the company ease its stretched working capital cycle (steep gross receivable days of MIS at 340 days at FY12 end). JISL plans to expand this NBFC into a pan-India player over the next 3-4 years. Maintain ‘BUY’.


NBFC launch to be followed up with aggressive expansion
• The NBFC will be incorporated as a JV named, “Sustainable Agro-commercial Finance Limited” (SAFL; pronounced as SAFAL). It will initially be promoted by JISL, promoter entities of JISL and International Finance Corporation (IFC) – a member of the World Bank group. Post the launch of SAFL and the initial phase of its expansion, JISL plans to bring in some banks and financial institutions into the equity shareholding of the JV.


• Main activities of SAFL would include financing farmers for MIS, agri projects, contract farming, small businesses, setting up solar pumps and other appliances.


• JISL indicated sometime back that the initial investment into SAFL would be ~INR0.8bn, in the proportion of 10% by IFC, 40% by JISL and rest by promoter entities. In the second phase, INR1.2bn is likely to be infused by bringing in strategic partners.


• SAFL plans to commence its business activities post the monsoon period this year, by setting up ~25 offices in Maharashtra by Aug 2012 end and another 15 offices in the state by Dec 2012. In the second phase, SAFL plans to expand operations to Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. In the phase three, it plans to cover the remaining states. SAFL envisages a pan- India presence with over 150 offices within the next 3-4 years.


Outlook and valuations: WC likely to ease; maintain ‘BUY’
While high working capital, high leverage and unhedged forex loans remain key concerns, the NBFC license coming through after a long wait will accelerate the pace of rationalizing the WC cycle. Consequently, leverage concerns for JISL are likely to subside. The stock is currently trading at 9.9x and 8.0 x P/E for FY13E and FY14E, respectively. We maintain ‘BUY’ with a target of INR110 based on DCF.


To read report in detail: JAIN IRRIGATION
RISH TRADER

Saturday, July 14, 2012

>ALCOA


In its Q2CY12 result commentary, Alcoa retained its global aluminium demand growth estimate for 2012 at 7% p.a. It also indicated deficit of 515kt for 2012, slightly higher from 435kt in the previous quarter led by ex‐China production cuts. The company believes current aluminium price is depressed compared with strong fundamentals, implicitly indicating that price is likely to have bottomed out and could move up in future.
Consequently, we expect short‐term pain for Indian aluminium producers, but also foresee improvement as prices rise eventually. Alcoa’s rolled products segment (comparable to Novelis) had stable QoQ EBITDA, in line with our expectation for Novelis of flat QoQ EBITDA for Q2CY12.


Aluminium price believed to be depressed
Alcoa indicated that aluminium price was depressed relative to fundamentals. The company cited growing demand, increase in physical market premium to record highs (up USD25‐50/t QoQ across regions) and decline in days of inventory (down three days QoQ) as a reflection of the strong fundamentals. Alcoa’s premium in the primary aluminium segment went up from USD 258/t in Q1CY12 to USD 352/t in Q2CY12.


Rolled products’ EBITDA stabilises QoQ
We expected significant QoQ dip in rolled products (FRP) EBITDA in Q2CY12, led by issues in Europe. However, it slid only 3.5% QoQ, at USD 193mn. Volumes were up 7% QoQ to 484kt (third‐party), but EBITDA/t declined to USD399 from USD447 QoQ. This seems fair w.r.t. Novelis since we are building in flat EBITDA QoQ at USD 234mn for Novelis.


Results below expectation by 9% at EBITDA
Alcoa’s reported revenue, EBITDA and PAT (ex one‐offs) of USD 5,963 mn (consensus estimate: USD 5,810 mn), USD 517 mn (consensus estimate: USD 567 mn) and USD 61 mn (consensus estimate: USD 81 mn), respectively. It indicated that pricing mix issues in rolled products had an adverse QoQ impact of USD 31mn.


Outlook: Aluminium prices likely to have bottomed
We see risk of aluminium prices remaining at current levels of USD1900‐2000/t for the next two quarters, despite sound fundamentals, which could lead to earnings cut for Indian aluminium producers (Hindalco, NALCO, Sterlite) for FY13. However, we believe prices will move up eventually and remain positive from a structural point of view. Increase in premiums and INR depreciation could also provide some relief. We expect the rolled product segment to post steady EBITDA in the short term for Novelis (in line with Alcoa’s Q2CY12 result trend) with some improvement in later part of FY13 and then FY14.

To read report in detail: ALCOA


RISH TRADER

>CUMMINS INDIA

Profitability supported by cost optimization – a widening moat
In FY12, Cummins India (KKC) curtailed its EBITDA margin decline at 200bp to 16.9%, despite slowing sales (up 3% YoY) and rising input costs. Raw material (RM) costs rose only 3% YoY despite 16% YoY rise in pig iron prices, which forms over 50% of RM cost. This commendable achievement is a result of increased indigenization and cost optimization measures:


(i) RM imports have declined significantly from 29-30% of revenues in FY07-08 to 20% in FY12. Also, within RM, component imports have declined to 69% of RM consumed (from 77% in FY08) and share of semi-finished components have increased to 19% from 5% in FY08.


(ii) Cost optimization measures like ACE III (Accelerated Cost Efficiency) are expected to generate savings of INR2.3b till 2014 by reducing the total cost of ownership of direct materials by 20%. TRIMs (Total Reduction in Indirect Materials & Services) targets to reduce the direct cost of ownership in indirect materials by 10% over 3 years.


Expect a meaningful increase in capex
In its recent analyst meet, KKC stated that capex in FY13/14 is expected at ~INR6.5b each, which is meaningful given FY12 gross fixed assets at INR9.7b. Capex in FY12 increased to INR2.1b, and stood at 28% of the opening gross fixed asset. A large part of the incremental capex (~65%) pertains to the India Technical centre and India Office Campus, which will also be shared with group companies and thus KKC will earn lease income (IOC to commence in April 2014). This will likely dilute return ratios (FY12 ROE at 28%) and remains an area of concern. Capital commitments stood at INR4.3b in FY12, up from INR550m in FY11; thus, expect a steep increase in FY13 capex.


60-liter engine has revenue potential of INR2.6b over 5 years
KKC’s FY12 Annual Report states that the 60-liter engine will be an INR2.6b opportunity over 5 years. This is meaningful given that KKC's domestic engine sales in FY12 is ~INR12.6b. Construction for high horsepower QSK60/23 engines in India commenced in FY12 at Phaltan megasite. We believe that going forward, there exists possibilities that some of the new products will be manufactured / exported by Cummins Inc, while KKC retains the marketing rights in India.


To read report in detail: CUMMINS INDIA


RISH TRADER

>STERLITE INDUSTRIES: Acquisition in Vedanta Aluminium

Sterlite Industries’ annual report analysis highlights fresh investment in other group companies. With INR depreciation, large unhedged forex payables may lead to further MTM losses. While borrowing cost has gone up significantly, other income is likely to be subdued.


VAL an overhang; consol. debt, interest cost to swell post merger
At FY12 end, Sterlite Industries (SIIL) owned 29.5% stake in Vedanta Aluminium (VAL) (associate and fellow subsidiary) for INR5.6bn. However, a significant portion of the latter’s balance sheet was funded by SIIL by way of loans and advances (including preference share) of INR100.5bn (refer table 4). During FY12, Sesa‐Sterlite (SS) approved acquisition of balance 70.5% stake in VAL from Vedanta Resources. Our calculation suggests an enterprise value (EV) of INR320bn for VAL (refer table 6).


During FY12, VAL incurred loss of INR26.2bn (FY11: INR9.6bn) with SIIL’s share in it at INR7.7bn (FY11: INR2.8bn), 16.0% of FY12 PAT (FY11: 5.7%; refer table 7). With acquisition of balance stake in VAL:


• SIIL’s INR100.5bn loan to VAL will be eliminated.


• SS’ interest income will be lower as interest income from VAL will be eliminated. During FY12, SIIL earned interest of INR8.9bn from VAL (9.0 % of PBT).


• Additional loan in VAL of INR197.0bn will be part of the consolidated entity, leading to higher interest cost.


Fresh investments in other group companies jumped from INR7.8bn in FY11 to INR19.7bn in FY12; 4.3% of FY12 networth (FY11: 1.9%) (refer table 3).


Forex movement likely to be a major dampener
SIIL’s unhedged foreign currency net payable stood at INR113.0bn in FY12 (FY11: INR91.4bn). During the year, the INR has depreciated 14.6% versus USD, which has led to forex loss of INR7.2bn (7.3% of FY12 PBT) in FY12. With the INR depreciating ~10% in Q1FY13, the company is likely to suffer significant forex loss/finance cost.


Higher finance cost, damages provision drag down margin
Finance cost (including interest capitalised) jumped from INR6.5bn in FY11 to INR15.9bn in FY12, 16.1% of FY12 PBT (FY11: 7.1%), with average borrowing cost surging from 5.7% to 10.5%. During the year, the company provided incidental damages of USD82.8mn (INR4.2bn; net of deposit of USD50mn; 4.3% of FY12 PBT) for Asarco, US, as per US Bankruptcy Court judgement.


Other income comprising ~11% of PBT unlikely to sustain
Other income includes fair valuation of conversion option on convertibles of INR2.4bn and interest from VAL of INR8.9bn which is unlikely to sustain.


To read report in detail: STERLITE INDUSTRIES
RISH TRADER

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

>RAILWAYS: Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) project is being implemented


The Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) project is being implemented to speed up rail freight movement via two corridors—Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Kolkata—of over 3,322 kms at a cost of over INR800bn-1,000bn over the next five years. Similarly, Delhi Metro, having completed phase I and II, is now targeting completing Phase III by 2016 at a cost of INR352bn. Ergo, we expect these two large projects to generate construction contracts worth INR681bn and systems contracts worth INR350bn. Rolling stock contracts is the additional opportunity for both projects.


DFC: Likely to generate orders worth INR523bn over FY13-14
DFC, one of the biggest infrastructure projects, proposes to construct two dedicated freight corridors on the Eastern corridor from Ludhiana to Dankuni via Mughalsarai of 1,839 km and on Western corridor from Dadri to JNPT of 1,534 km. Indian Railways is looking at running heavier (higher axle load), speedier (100 kmph) and longer freight trains to maximise utilisation of existing track capacity. The project cost is expected to top ~INR800bn-1,000bn when completed, spread equally between Eastern DFC and Western DFC. We expect awarding of construction contracts to start shortly and system contracts with a lag of 12-18 months. During FY13-14, we expect DFC to dole out contracts worth INR523bn.


DMRC: Order awards worth INR200bn likely in 12-18 months
Delhi Metro (Phase III) is clearly in an overdrive mode having already placed orders worth INR81bn for civil construction. We expect balance civil construction contracts worth INR94bn to be awarded over the next 12 months. Further, given the usual lag of six-nine months for placing orders for systems, we understand that all systems (electrical and signalling) contracts are expected to be placed by Q1FY14. Tenders for electrical worth INR16bn are already out for phase III. Orders for rolling stock (30% of total capex) are expected to be finalised over the next 12 months given the tender document (for 486 rolling stocks) is already out. We expect over INR200bn worth contracts to be awarded over the next 12-18 months for Delhi Metro’s Phase III.


Outlook: Leg up for construction and systems companies
With strong order flow expected from both DFC and Delhi Metro over the next few years, we believe these two large railway / infrastructure projects are likely to present significant opportunities for construction companies, systems (electrical and signalling) companies and rolling stock / locomotive companies. We expect total awards of INR681bn and INR350bn for construction contracts and systems contracts, respectively, for these large infrastructure projects. Rolling stock contract for Delhi Metro is expected at INR106bn while that for DFC will be over and above the INR800bn-1,000bn expected to be spent on the project. We believe likely beneficiaries could included L&T (BUY/SO), NCC (BUY/SO) and IVRCL (HOLD/SP) on the construction side and Siemens (BUY/SO), ABB (REDUCE/SU), Alstom T&D (Not Rated) and Alstom India (Not Rated) for the Systems contracts.


To read report in detail: DFC
RISH TRADER

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

>PHARMACEUTICALS: US Supreme Court upheld healthcare reform; positive for Indian pharma

In a recent landmark judgement, the US Supreme Court passed the healthcare reform and ruled that government has constitutional right to ask all US citizens to buy health insurance or pay penalty. Indeed, this is a great development for the American insurance industry, but is beneficial for Indian pharma as well since it will add 26mn new policies. Apart from increase generic usage, interchangeability of biologics will allow Indian biosimilars to enjoy the same status as small molecule generics of offpatented drugs. We highlight that companies like Dr. Reddy’s and Biocon have made good progress in biosimilar programs, while Cadila and Lupin are also scaling up.


US Supreme Court upheld healthcare reform
The US Supreme Court recently passed the landmark ruling, dubbed ‘Obamacare’, thereby upholding the controversial massive reform of healthcare coverage initiated by the President Barack Obama. Obamacare or Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) requires most Americans to have health insurance and is effective from 2014. This legislation could, however, get derailed if Mr. Obama is not re‐elected or the Republican Party opposes it. The Supreme Court ruled that the most debated part, requiring all US citizens to buy health insurance or pay a penalty, was "constitutionally valid" as the Obama administration justified the penalty as a tax. It also ruled that the government has the power "lay and collect taxes."


Salient features of the US healthcare reform
The Act will come into force beginning 2014. All US citizens will have to buy insurance or pay penalty that will be anywhere between 1% of the income in 2014 to 2.5% of the income by 2016. Currently, there are 250mn Americans insured, and Obamacare will add 26mn policies to health insurance. The governments, both state and federal, on their part will be subsidising the plan. Federal health spending is expected to rise from 5.6% of GDP in 2011 to 9.5% of GDP in 2035.


Impact of reform on global pharma industry
For global pharma companies, increased demand of drugs due to greater number of insured consumers will largely offset higher fees and rebates associated with healthcare reform. Though costs related to healthcare reform will be upfront, the increased demand is unlikely to begin until 2014 (when the mandate goes into effect). The Healthcare Reform Law imposes an annual fee on any “covered entity engaged in the business of manufacturing or importing branded prescription drugs” beginning in 2011. Branded prescription drugs and biologics covered include: (i) Any prescription drug approved under section 505(b) of the FDA; and (ii) any biological product for which an application was submitted under section 351(a) of the Public Health Service Act. Sales of generic drug products will not affect calculation of annual fees.



Positive impact on Indian generic companies
While this development is great news for American insurance (as it will add 26mn new policies to health insurance), pharmaceutical and hospital companies, Indian pharmaceutical companies too will benefit. Nearly 75‐80% of all prescribed drugs sold in the US are generic drugs, an area where Indian companies are strong. To keep the cost of medical treatment low, insurance companies will prefer to use the generics route.


Moreover, Section 10609 of the Healthcare Reform Law is intended to increase access to lower‐cost generic drugs by preventing innovators from delaying approval of generic products by making label changes to the brand name or listed drug. Prior to the Law, the labeling of a generic drug was required to match the labeling of the referenced brand name or listed drug, or it wasn’t approved. This provision will enable faster approvals of generic drugs.


Interchangeable clause to pave biosimilar pathway in US
Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act (BPCIA) authorizes FDA to create a new regulatory pathway for biosimilar biological products. This section recognises an abbreviated approval pathway for biological products that can be shown to be “biosimilar” to or “interchangeable” with an existing FDA‐licensed biological product. Innovator manufacturers of reference biological products are granted 12 years of exclusive use before biosimilars can be approved for marketing in the US. This sub section will allow Indian biosimilars to enjoy the same status as small molecule generics of off‐patent drugs made by pharma companies in India. We highlight that companies like Dr. Reddy’s and Biocon have made good progress in biosimilar programs, while Cadila and Lupin are also scaling up.

RISH TRADER

>STRATEGY: At the limits of realism



Global Economy: Synchronised downturn

  • US, Europe, China & Asia are facing an economic downturn, with Europe being the worst hit. However, latest steps initiated in the EU Summit have reduced the financial risks in the near term.
  • It is a mixed blessing for India: Growth & INR to be adversely impacted, but fall in commodities & oil a big positive




Indian Economy: Growth to remain sub-par in coming quarters
  • Lingering policy paralysis, weak external environment and high interest rates to impede economic activity in the coming quarters. We expect below-trend growth of 6.4% in FY13E
  • However, few positives emerging—BoP stress likely to ease, RBI likely to turn more growth supportive and undervalued INR to support economy

Corporate earnings: To stabilise/improve as businesses shift focus from growth to profitability
  • In a slow growth environment, businesses undertake cost rationalisation (through deleveraging, cutting SG&A and employee costs etc). This helps stabilise/expand PBT margins even as sales continue to slow. History offers ample evidence of the same
  • Accordingly, while there will be some further downgrades in FY13 Sensex earnings of INR1,280, as per our bear case estimate we do not foresee earnings falling below INR 1,220. Hence, assuming a below-average multiple of 13x, Sensex downside is protected at ~16000.


Sectors to play
Given weak macros we favour a bottom-up approach. For next couple of quarters, we play interest rate cycle theme, moving real estate to OW, and retaining OW on autos. Further, given demanding valuations of consumer sector, we are downgrading it to EW from OW. Meanwhile, telecom is upgraded to OW, while IT continues to be OW


Model portfolio: Outperformed Nifty by 100bps in CY12 YTD. Since CY09, outperformance has been ~630bps


To read report in detail: STRATEGY

RISH TRADER

Sunday, July 1, 2012

>STRATEGY – With Crude’s decline, expect short-term rally to continue…

Executive Summary
We can all breathe a sigh of relief as last week’s events have come to an end. If we look at the past week in hindsight, key negative risks such as Greece’s exit from the Eurozone have clearly been avoided, which has been enough to calm frayed nerves in the markets. Similarly, in the US, the Fed extended its Maturity Extension Program (MEP), or Operation Twist, by $267 bn and assured markets that more will be done if required thus expanding chances of another round of Quantitative Easing. Thus, things on the global side played out in the favor of bulls. On the domestic front, the RBI delivered a surprise by keeping policy rates and CRR unchanged, contrary to market expectations.


The joker in the pack, however, has been crude oil. Brent crude has dropped to $90/barrel on global growth concerns and a 22-year high stock pile in the US. The fall in crude prices has become one of the biggest game changers for India with its ramifications pretty strong on account of our twin deficits.


On the political scenario, the Prime Minister has taken up the Finance portfolio as Mr. Pranab Mukherjee resigned to contest for presidential elections. This raises some hopes that the PM will act once again as he had done in 1991. Thus, any strong move could have a strong signaling effect on the markets.


Technically, we are well placed above 200 DMA. The recent fall in crude oil prices coupled with strong technical indicators suggest that the current rally may extend to previous highs of 5,500. Hence we recommend trading on the long side in the next 3 to 6 weeks.


Recent events - No complaints as negatives avoided
Greece election results helped restore some calm in the markets with the New Democratic Party (NDP), Pasok and the Democratic Party of the Left forming a coalition government with a total seat count of 179 out of 300 (60%). Thus, the near-term fear of Greece moving out of the Eurozone has been put to rest as the new government realizes the importance of its existing Eurozone membership. This is the outcome that markets wanted to see as the new coalition has generally signaled a willingness to go along with the current bailout path and not buck the rest of Europe.


The Federal Reserve, too, did not deliver any major surprises as it announced a continuation to its MEP (Operation Twist) to the tune of $267 bn. Further, the Fed decided to keep the target range for federal funds rate at 0 to 0.25% and exceptionally low levels for the federal funds rate at least through late 2014. The Fed’s acknowledged that the US economy is expanding only moderately and that growth in employment has also slowed in recent months, keeping unemployment rates elevated. The Fed’s assurance that it will be ready to support the market as needed however lends assurance of another round of QE in the near term.


The RBI, meanwhile, in its June 2012 mid-quarter monetary policy review maintained a status quo on repo rate and CRR at 8.0% and 4.75%, respectively. This move was made in contrast to both our and market expectations of 25bps reduction in policy rates. The Reserve Bank cited concern on inflation and shifted the blame of slower investment growth on the government and other reasons. It is interesting to note that RBI once again has shifted focus on headline inflation rather than the more encouraging core inflation number and going forward monsoon’s performance will play a pivotal role in determining headline inflation trends.


Crude comes to the rescue
The joker in the pack has definitely been crude oil. Brent crude has fallen to $90/barrel on global growth issues and a 22-year high stock pile in the US. The fall in crude prices has become one of the biggest game changers for India, with its ramifications pretty strong on account of our twin deficits. The current account is sensitive by 45bps for every $10/barrel move in crude and crude’s decline from $120/barrel to $90/barrel means that we can now expect CAD at 2.5% in FY13 if crude ends the year averaging at $90/barrel. On the fiscal account as well, a decline in crude helps bail out the central government as they continue to struggle to push a hike in diesel prices. Further, even adjusted for a fall in Rupee, domestic cost of fuel has declined by over 10% since January. This lends some comfort to OMCs given that they have been unable to hike diesel prices.


To read report in detail: STRATEGY


RISH TRADER

>RANE HOLDINGS

Rane Madras (S): The company expects the electric power steering (EPS) segment to grow exponentially in the coming years and is well equipped to meet the demand. Product portfolio diversification will also be key to growth. The company expects to grow its sales at 18% CAGR with ROCE of 25% over the next couple of years.


Rane Engine Valve (S): The company is well placed to post 15% sales CAGR with ROCE of 18% by leveraging its leadership position in the engine valve segment. Productivity improvement at older plants will help improve margin.


Rane Break Lining (S): Use of friction material in India has to go a long way. The JV with Nisshinbo Japan will help the company post 18% sales CAGR with 20% ROCE.


Rane TRW Steering (JV): With a dominant market share in steering systems and seat belts across segments in domestic markets, the company is planning to grow the niche export business through a JV with TRW, US (world’s No.1 airbag manufacturer).


Rane NSK Steering (JV): a major supplier of EPS to Maruti, is working on increasing localisation, in line with Maruti’s thrust on lowering import content. Dividend payout policy: Rane Holdings @45-50% of PAT.


Outlook: Challenges in near term; positive in long term
FY13 is expected to be challenging. Though, in the medium to long term, demand from domestic OEMs and aftermarkets as well as export markets is expected to revive.


To read report in detail: RANE HOLDINGS
RISH TRADER

>GOLD LOAN INDUSTRY: Gold loan NBFCs

Standing up to the test of fire


Genuine and structural demand; business model here to stay
Our branch visits of gold financiers made us more confident about genuineness of gold loan demand. Gold loans as a product is gaining significance as it is the fastest and most convenient form of financing, finding use in meeting urgent personal/business needs. Even though the current regulatory changes will impact growth, margins and hence profitability of business, the business model has merit and will continue to embark on a steady growth path post the consolidation period i.e., FY13. Despite heightened competition from banks like Federal Bank, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, etc., the USP that established gold loan NBFCs have developed, i.e., scale, first‐mover advantage, brand equity, accessibility, relatively lower documentation and fast turnaround time, will ensure that customers keep flocking to their branches aiding gold lenders to continue to hold forte.


RBI came cracking; industry coping up better than expected
We believe investors are skeptical on monoline gold financiers considering recent regulatory
upheavals and peak/volatile gold prices coupled with active competition from banks and NBFCs.

What if…
Regulatory landscape becomes further assertive
We cannot call it an end of regulatory rigmarole till the report of KUB Rao Working Group is tabled by July 2012. Even in a stress case, assuming further regulatory strictures either with respect to limit on cash disbursals or increase in risk‐weights or definition of collateral value (though we assign low probability to this playing out), we expect 25%‐30% decline in growth from our base case scenario. Even under these circumstances, it will continue to deliver 2.5%‐3.0% RoA and 10%‐15% RoE.

How should investors view this space?
Regulatory risks remain only in interim, long term fundamentals stay firm We accept that FY13 will be the year of consolidation for gold finance companies in term of growth and margins though stability at the ground level might surprise the consensus numbers and expectation. From FY14 onwards, the business model would deliver steady state of 15%‐20% growth, impressive return profile (ROA and ROE) and benign asset quality metrics, a key investor pull. We are confident of substantial merit in this business model as gold loan demand is genuine being the fastest and the most convenient form of financing short term personal/business needs. Leading gold loan financiers will continue to hold the forte considering their USP – branding, convenience, trust, faster turnaround unless: 
     
     􀂃 Customers become averse to pledging of gold and instead prefer selling gold
     􀂃 Banks get aggressive grabbing significant share due to rate, LTV and reach advantage


Play this space via Muthoot Finance and Federal Bank
We prefer to play this space via quality players like Muthoot Finance or major beneficiary of
regulatory changes like Federal Bank. We also upgrade Manappuram Finance to BUY.



Highlights of survey across 150+ branches

  1. Is gold financing just reaping the benefits of a benign gold price cycle? 
  2. Where do we stand in terms of penetration and product potential? 
  3. What can lead to customers becoming averse to pledging of gold? 
  4. Did rapid growth, burgeoning competition see some dilution in lending? 
  5. NBFCs will hold the turf; but big private banks can change the game 
  6. RBI came cracking; industry coping up better than expected 
  7. Consolidation in the interim; long‐term fundamentals intact 
  8. Is this is the end of regulatory rigmarole? 
To read report in detail: GOLD LOAN INDUSTRY
RISH TRADER