Buy TCI Express; target of Rs 825: ICICI Direct

ICICI Direct is bullish on TCI Express has recommended buy rating on the stock with a target price of Rs 825 in its research report dated July 27, 2020.

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July 28, 2020 / 08:35 IST

26 Aug, 2025 12:21

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ICICI Direct's research report on TCI Express

TCI Express’ (TCIEL) revenues were below I-direct estimates but it performed better than our expectation on the profitability front owing to reduction in certain fixed costs mainly due to its asset light model. Revenues for Q1FY21 de-grew 65% YoY to Rs 89 crore (I-direct estimate: Rs 102 crore) EBITDA margins fell 930 bps YoY to 2.3%, better than our expectation of loss at the EBITDA level. EBITDA for the quarter de-grew 93% YoY to Rs 2 crore (I-direct estimate: loss of Rs 8 crore). The company has been able to lower the fixed cost by negotiating with lessors of its branch premises across India to reduce/waive the rent for April. Also, employee and other expenses fell 26% and 36% YoY, respectively. Subsequently, net profit declined 95% YoY to Rs 0.9 crore (I-direct estimate: net loss of Rs 10 crore.

Outlook

Covid-19 continues to impact express logistics but startups funded by private equity are seeing greater stress in cashflow management that can deter them from dealing in unprofitable business, lowering competitive intensity in the segment. Asset light business model, high core return ratios (FY22E RoCE at 29), position TCIEL as one of the preferred picks in logistics space. We value TCIEL at 30x P/E with revised TP of Rs 825 and a BUY rating.