Action Construction Equipment Ltd. (ACE) stands as a powerhouse in the manufacturing of heavy machinery, delivering a wide range of essential equipment across multiple sectors, from construction to agriculture.
With a legacy that stretches back to its inception in 1995 and an IPO in 2006, ACE has rapidly cemented its position as a market leader in India and beyond.
Known for producing world-class mobile cranes, backhoe loaders, forklifts, and agricultural machinery, ACE is the force behind some of the most critical infrastructure projects across the globe.
As the largest producer of Pick & Carry cranes and a dominant player in tower cranes, ACE leads the way in providing cutting-edge solutions to industries like construction, infrastructure, logistics, and agriculture.
What sets ACE apart is its constant push for innovation. From the world's first fully electric mobile crane to giant 180-ton crawlers, ACE is reshaping the landscape of heavy machinery.
But it doesn't stop there - the company is also breaking new ground in international markets, securing multi-million dollar contracts, including the creation of a major assembly plant in Ghana as well as orders from r the Ministry of Defence.
Improving production capacity, opportunities in the defence sector, and the use of next-generation technology, makes ACE an exciting company to watch.
Now, let's take a closer look at why ACE is set to redefine the heavy machinery sector... Bottom of Form
Action Construction Equipment Ltd. specializes in the manufacturing and marketing of hydraulic mobile cranes, mobile tower cranes, and material handling equipment such as forklifts.
The company also produces road construction equipment, including backhoe loaders, compactors, and motor graders, as well as agricultural equipment like tractors, harvesters, and rotavators.
It ranks among the top three players in the forklift segment in India, alongside Godrej & Boyce Mfg. Co. Ltd and Kion Group AG.
With a diverse product portfolio, the company serves various sectors, including construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, logistics, and agriculture.
If you had invested Rs 10,000 in Action Construction 10 years ago, your investment would be worth Rs 323,673 today.
This represents a staggering 3,136.7% return over 10 years.
In comparison, the Sensex would have given you a return of 182.7% during the same period.
Since being listed in 2006, the stock price has rallied over 2,575 %.
Despite the lows caused by the coronavirus pandemic in early 2020, Action Construction shares have displayed remarkable resilience, bouncing back strongly.
Action Construction Equipment reported revenues of Rs 7.6 bn in Q2 FY25, reflecting a YoY growth of 12.2%. The company sold 2,863 units in the quarter, up by 9% YoY.
In terms of market performance, ACE sustained growth across all its operating segments, with cranes, material handling, and construction equipment contributing 92% of total revenue. The agriculture segment contributed 8% to the total revenue.
The company's EBITDA margin improved to 14%, with EBITDA increasing by 34.5% to Rs 1.4 bn compared to Rs 1 bn in Q2 FY24.
Profit After Tax (PAT) grew to Rs 950 m. The net margin for the quarter stood at 12.5% versus 11%, in Q2 FY24.
During the quarter, ACE has strengthened its presence in the defence sector by securing orders for custom-built forklifts for the Indian armed forces.
The company is on track to receive a significant order worth Rs 4 bn from the Ministry of Defence. This order could boost the defence segment's revenue contribution to over 5%.
Additionally, ongoing capacity expansion is set to increase revenue capacity from Rs 45 bn to more than Rs 51 bn by the fourth quarter of FY25.
In terms of product development, ACE has formed a joint venture with Kato Works to manufacture larger capacity cranes, including crawler and truck cranes, with agreements expected to be finalized by early Q4 FY25.
The company is focusing on enhancing its current product offerings, which include a mix of traditional and technologically advanced cranes, to meet evolving market demands.
Looking ahead, the company maintains a positive outlook on India's economic growth, bolstered by a 17% increase in capital expenditure in the FY25 Union Budget.
The focus on critical infrastructure sectors, particularly roads and railways, is expected to drive demand for construction equipment.
ACE anticipates over 15% growth in its cranes, material handling, and construction equipment segments, while the agriculture segment is projected to grow by 10% to 15%.
Although the company faces challenges, such as the impact of extended monsoons on the agriculture segment, it has made conservative adjustments to its guidance, still expecting over 15% growth.
With stricter emission norms set to take effect in January 2025, the company anticipates pre-buying activity from customers and is focusing on enhancing customer service, particularly in the spare parts segment.
Finally, ACE aims to achieve a 70% market share in the pick-and-carry crane segment, with plans for further production expansion and potential new land acquisitions to support future growth.
Action Construction Equipment Ltd. (ACE) continues to lead the heavy machinery market with its expansive product portfolio, strong financials, and growing global presence.
The company's innovations, including the world's first fully electric mobile crane, and strategic expansions, such as its ventures in the defence sector, reinforce its position as an industry leader.
First, India's focus on large-scale infrastructure projects ensures sustained demand for construction equipment, creating opportunities for ACE.
Second, the sector's shift towards sustainability, with ACE's investment in electric cranes, positions it well to benefit from stricter emission norms.
Lastly, the growing defence sector presents a lucrative market for ACE, especially with expected high-value orders from the Ministry of Defence.
However, despite these promising developments, there are several challenges on the horizon. The agriculture segment, impacted by extended monsoons, and the anticipated shift in emission norms could pose potential risks to growth.
Additionally, the company's heavy reliance on infrastructure and defence sectors might expose it to market volatility, especially as global conditions remain uncertain.
As ACE continues its growth trajectory, investors should stay conscious of these potential headwinds. A judicious evaluation of investment opportunities, considering both the company's strengths and risks, is essential.
Investors should closely monitor ACE's upcoming financial results and any strategic shifts as part of a well-informed investment strategy.
Happy investing!
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