Returns Are Gaining Momentum At Dropsuite (ASX:DSE)

If you're not sure where to start when looking for the next multi-bagger, there are a few key trends you should keep an eye out for. Firstly, we'll want to see a proven return on capital employed (ROCE) that is increasing, and secondly, an expanding base of capital employed. Put simply, these types of businesses are compounding machines, meaning they are continually reinvesting their earnings at ever-higher rates of return. So on that note, Dropsuite (ASX:DSE) looks quite promising in regards to its trends of return on capital.

What Is Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)?

For those that aren't sure what ROCE is, it measures the amount of pre-tax profits a company can generate from the capital employed in its business. Analysts use this formula to calculate it for Dropsuite:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) ÷ (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.032 = AU$714k ÷ (AU$25m - AU$2.5m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2022).

So, Dropsuite has an ROCE of 3.2%. Ultimately, that's a low return and it under-performs the Software industry average of 9.3%.

Check out our latest analysis for Dropsuite

Above you can see how the current ROCE for Dropsuite compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you're interested, you can view the analysts predictions in our free report on analyst forecasts for the company.

What Can We Tell From Dropsuite's ROCE Trend?

We're delighted to see that Dropsuite is reaping rewards from its investments and is now generating some pre-tax profits. The company was generating losses five years ago, but now it's earning 3.2% which is a sight for sore eyes. And unsurprisingly, like most companies trying to break into the black, Dropsuite is utilizing 701% more capital than it was five years ago. This can indicate that there's plenty of opportunities to invest capital internally and at ever higher rates, both common traits of a multi-bagger.

What We Can Learn From Dropsuite's ROCE

Long story short, we're delighted to see that Dropsuite's reinvestment activities have paid off and the company is now profitable. And a remarkable 170% total return over the last five years tells us that investors are expecting more good things to come in the future. Therefore, we think it would be worth your time to check if these trends are going to continue.

On a final note, we found 2 warning signs for Dropsuite (1 shouldn't be ignored) you should be aware of.

While Dropsuite may not currently earn the highest returns, we've compiled a list of companies that currently earn more than 25% return on equity. Check out this free list here.

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.