Mindtree Ltd: Improving Momentum! – BUY
CMP Rs1,031, Target Rs1,210
Deal wins, improving PES biz to help improve momentum
Mindtree's performance over the past couple of years, though not sector
leading, has shown definite signs of improvement. This was supported by
the sustained traction in IT services business owing to its specialized
go-to-market strategy, robust client mining and more recent improvement
in demand. Over past four to six months, the deal momentum has shown
improvement with higher deal visibility and conversion ratios. The
Product engineering (PES) business which was in the midst of
restructuring and certain client specific ramp-downs too seems to have
turned the corner as evidenced by better management commentary and
improving discretionary spending.
Margin outlook stable on the back of multiple levers
Margin performance of Mindtree has been impressive with a sizeable part
of the up-tick over FY13 coming from operational improvements. Despite
the negative impact of salary hikes, branding expenses and visa costs
(total of ~350bps+), the margin expanded 530 bps supported by weak
rupee, operational efficiencies and realisation improvement. Decent
margin levers in the form of sustained rupee depreciation, utilisation
headroom, employee pyramid and improving fixed price projects
contribution should help margin performance going forward. Also,
considering the relatively high offshore concentration, the negative
impact of possible protectionist move in the key markets should be
offset to a certain extent.
Attractive pick in backdrop of improving sector dynamics
Better-than-expected and well rounded Q1 FY14 results for most IT
companies in our coverage as well as improving management commentary
have lowered concern on the demand environment. The expectation of a
stronger FY14, better deal visibility/wins as well as push back on the
timing/possible impact of US immigration bill have increased sector
attractiveness. This is especially true considering the weakened
investment thesis for large part of the market, resultantly making IT a
safe haven. Within IT, we believe, Mindtree valuations continue to be
attractive at 8.5x FY15E earnings (vis-a-vis its historical average of
12x). Maintain BUY.
Source: IIFL
Note : Mindtree Ltd. is a Shariah Compliant stock and hence
those
investors who are following shariah guidelines can also invest in this
stock. Its Ethical to invest in this particular stock as of today 7th September, 2013. We will update if this stock is removed from the list of
Shariah Compliant Companies in future.