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Onward Technologies LtdQ1 FY24

Onward Technologies Ltd Q1 FY24 Earnings Call Analysis

Revenue, margin, capex, fundraise and order book outlook from management commentary.

Price: 248P/E: 13.5Market Cap: ₹629 CrSector: IT - Services

Management growth scorecard

Revenue

Category 3

Margin

Category 1

Fundraise

N/A

Order

N/A

Capex

Yes

2 of 3 growth signals are positive.

Full analysis

Revenue guidance

Category 3
  • Onward Technologies has grown from INR 300 crores to INR 470 crores over the last 2 years, showing 50%+ growth.
  • The company expects the next 2 years to outperform the previous 2 years in revenue and EBITDA.
  • They target 10 customers generating USD 10 million each annually, focusing on deepening strategic client relationships.
  • FY '25 is seen as a pivotal year for increasing global billing versus India billing, aided by better global mobility (e.g., US and Canada).
  • They aim for double-digit EBITDA margins and improved profitability.
  • Headcount is expected to stabilize around 2,700-2,800, with more resources outside India.
  • Growth is driven mainly by USA, Canada, and Europe markets with continued focus on execution and winning large deals early in the fiscal year.
  • Digital, mechanical, and embedded segments are all growing and expected to contribute to future revenue expansion.

Margin guidance

Category 1
  • Management aims for double-digit EBITDA and plans to improve EBITDA margin next year, expecting to surpass previous levels despite one-off expenses.
  • The goal is consistent quarterly growth, with a focus on beating the prior quarter's performance.
  • Earnings growth is anticipated to be strong over the next 2-3 years, expected to outperform the last 3 years' 50%+ growth (from INR 300 crores to INR 470 crores).
  • Profit After Tax (PAT) saw a 194% increase last year, indicating improving profitability trends.
  • EPS performance is expected to improve alongside EBITDA growth and revenue expansion, supported by a strong client base and operational efficiencies.
  • Growth drivers include higher-value client engagements, focus on three verticals with large potential, and global expansion with better billing rates.
  • No formal guidance given, but management is optimistic on both top-line and operating earnings improvement in the near future.

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Fundraise plans

  • As per the available transcript on pages 1-17 of the Q4 FY24 earnings call, there is no mention of any current or planned fundraising through debt or equity.
  • Jigar Mehta mentioned having strong cash reserves (INR 93 crores as of March 2024) and a strong PE partner, Convergent, indicating no immediate need for fundraising.
  • On the M&A front, they are open to acquisitions but have no concrete plans or active discussions currently.
  • Overall, the company seems focused on organic growth, execution, and strengthening customer relationships rather than new fundraising at this stage.

Order book

  • The company has a strong deal pipeline and opportunities from existing customers, described as "better and bigger than ever before" starting April 1, 2024.
  • Focus is on expanding within existing strategic clients by opening offices in new geographies like UK, Canada, and US.
  • Re-signed three major old customers who were lost pre-pandemic, indicating renewed confidence.
  • The goal is to secure 10 customers with revenues of USD 10 million each annually, which would drive significant growth.
  • Pipeline strength has improved compared to last year, driven by mature, strategic client relationships.
  • The company is emphasizing execution with a massive focus on winning and scaling deals rather than just expanding headcount.
  • No specific orderbook value disclosed, but confidence is expressed about substantial movement from India to global billing and better top-line and EBITDA performance in near term.

Capex plans

Yes
  • Onward Technologies is investing in strengthening its offshore infrastructure, notably in Pune, Chennai, and a new office opening in Bangalore (Whitefield) in July.
  • These investments are aimed at supporting the company’s shift from an onsite-driven to a balanced offshore-driven delivery model.
  • The office upgrades are focused on A-grade buildings and tech parks offering necessary data security, amenities, and services.
  • The company is building global presence and account management capabilities by transferring experienced India-based talent to USA and UK and hiring local resources there.
  • Capex is supported by a strong cash flow and management team with a supportive Board enabling quick decision-making.
  • No concrete current plans for M&A or strategic investments, but the company remains open for appropriate acquisition opportunities especially in the high-end digital or embedded space to support existing clients rather than adding unrelated clients.

How does Onward Technologies Ltd rank vs peers in IT - Services?

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