Return Trends At New Jersey Resources (NYSE:NJR) Aren't Appealing

If we want to find a stock that could multiply over the long term, what are the underlying trends we should look for? Typically, we'll want to notice a trend of growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and alongside that, an expanding base of capital employed. This shows us that it's a compounding machine, able to continually reinvest its earnings back into the business and generate higher returns. However, after briefly looking over the numbers, we don't think New Jersey Resources (NYSE:NJR) has the makings of a multi-bagger going forward, but let's have a look at why that may be.

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 New Jersey Resources:

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

0.071 = US$407m ÷ (US$6.5b - US$807m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023).

Thus, New Jersey Resources has an ROCE of 7.1%. On its own, that's a low figure but it's around the 6.5% average generated by the Gas Utilities industry.

See our latest analysis for New Jersey Resources

Above you can see how the current ROCE for New Jersey Resources compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you'd like to see what analysts are forecasting going forward, you should check out our free report for New Jersey Resources.

How Are Returns Trending?

In terms of New Jersey Resources' historical ROCE trend, it doesn't exactly demand attention. The company has employed 69% more capital in the last five years, and the returns on that capital have remained stable at 7.1%. This poor ROCE doesn't inspire confidence right now, and with the increase in capital employed, it's evident that the business isn't deploying the funds into high return investments.

The Bottom Line

As we've seen above, New Jersey Resources' returns on capital haven't increased but it is reinvesting in the business. And with the stock having returned a mere 18% in the last five years to shareholders, you could argue that they're aware of these lackluster trends. Therefore, if you're looking for a multi-bagger, we'd propose looking at other options.

If you want to know some of the risks facing New Jersey Resources we've found 2 warning signs (1 shouldn't be ignored!) that you should be aware of before investing here.

While New Jersey Resources isn't earning the highest return, check out this free list of companies that are earning high returns on equity with solid balance sheets.

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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.