Finding a business that has the potential to grow substantially is not easy, but it is possible if we look at a few key financial metrics. Firstly, we'll want to see a proven return on capital employed (ROCE) that is increasing, and secondly, an expanding base of capital employed. Ultimately, this demonstrates that it's a business that is reinvesting profits at increasing rates of return. With that in mind, the ROCE of Manorama Industries (NSE:MANORAMA) looks attractive right now, so lets see what the trend of returns can tell us.
What Is Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)?
For those who don't know, ROCE is a measure of a company's yearly pre-tax profit (its return), relative to the capital employed in the business. To calculate this metric for Manorama Industries, this is the formula:
Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) ÷ (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)
0.32 = ₹1.6b ÷ (₹9.8b - ₹4.7b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to March 2025).
Therefore, Manorama Industries has an ROCE of 32%. That's a fantastic return and not only that, it outpaces the average of 12% earned by companies in a similar industry.
See our latest analysis for Manorama Industries
While the past is not representative of the future, it can be helpful to know how a company has performed historically, which is why we have this chart above. If you're interested in investigating Manorama Industries' past further, check out this free graph covering Manorama Industries' past earnings, revenue and cash flow.
So How Is Manorama Industries' ROCE Trending?
We'd be pretty happy with returns on capital like Manorama Industries. The company has consistently earned 32% for the last five years, and the capital employed within the business has risen 298% in that time. With returns that high, it's great that the business can continually reinvest its money at such appealing rates of return. If these trends can continue, it wouldn't surprise us if the company became a multi-bagger.
On a separate but related note, it's important to know that Manorama Industries has a current liabilities to total assets ratio of 48%, which we'd consider pretty high. This effectively means that suppliers (or short-term creditors) are funding a large portion of the business, so just be aware that this can introduce some elements of risk. Ideally we'd like to see this reduce as that would mean fewer obligations bearing risks.
Our Take On Manorama Industries' ROCE
In the end, the company has proven it can reinvest it's capital at high rates of returns, which you'll remember is a trait of a multi-bagger. On top of that, the stock has rewarded shareholders with a remarkable 525% return to those who've held over the last three years. So while the positive underlying trends may be accounted for by investors, we still think this stock is worth looking into further.
One final note, you should learn about the 3 warning signs we've spotted with Manorama Industries (including 2 which are potentially serious) .
If you'd like to see other companies earning high returns, check out our free list of companies earning high returns with solid balance sheets here.
Valuation is complex, but we're here to simplify it.
Discover if Manorama Industries might be undervalued or overvalued with our detailed analysis, featuring fair value estimates, potential risks, dividends, insider trades, and its financial condition.
Access Free AnalysisHave feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.
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.