Top Auto Stocks to Invest

One of India's best performing industries is auto industry. One of India's industries with the quickest growth is the car industry. India has a vast variety of vehicles, including tractors as well as automobiles, motorcycles, scooters, and even bikes.

Over the coming years, the auto sector is anticipated to expand as a result of a number of reasons, including increased disposable income, robust demand for automobiles and trucks, and a growing emphasis on infrastructure development by the government.

A number of stocks are grabbing attention as the car business expands exponentially. We anticipate these stocks to continue performing well in 2023 as they have in the previous two years.

Key Considerations Before Investing in Auto Sector Stocks

Auto sector stocks are projected to offer significant growth potential in 2023. The automotive industry's expansion is driven by rising demand from emerging markets and the increasing need for convenient transportation options.

Factors to Keep in Mind When Buying Auto Stocks in 2023

1. Company's Financial Health

It's wise to avoid companies carrying excessive debt. If a company has too much debt, it might struggle to repay loans or bonds when they come due. This could lead to a sharp drop in stock prices, leaving investors with worthless shares from a financially troubled company.

2. Cash Flow Evaluation

Before investing in any stock, ensure that the company has sufficient cash flow to cover expenses until it turns profitable and can resume paying dividends. Inadequate cash flow might indicate difficulties in managing debts, which could potentially lead to future problems.

3. Handling Market Cycles

Companies in this sector need strategies to navigate inevitable industry downturns. A strong company will emerge from these downturns even stronger, having weathered the challenges. A well-thought-out plan for handling market cycles can reduce the stock's volatility over time.

4. Managing Volatility

Volatility, or how much a stock's price fluctuates, can be assessed using the beta coefficient. A lower beta coefficient signifies lower volatility compared to other companies in the same sector. High beta values suggest more significant price swings, which may not suit long-term investors looking for stable returns.

5. Clear Growth Prospects

Prioritize companies that outline their growth plans and sales projections for the future. Visible growth strategies and resilience during challenging times are crucial indicators. Look for companies with long-term growth plans and a track record of bouncing back from tough situations.

Investing in auto sector stocks requires careful consideration. To make informed decisions, assess a company's financial stability, cash flow, strategies for market downturns, volatility levels, and growth prospects. A company's ability to manage these factors effectively can greatly impact its success in a dynamic industry.

Overview of Top Auto Stocks in India

1. Maruti Suzuki

Key Operational Highlights

Domestic Market

1.    Passenger vehicle wholesales surged by 12.2%, surpassing industry growth rates.
2.    Captured ~20% market share in the SUV segment, bolstered by robust product offerings.
3.    Established dominance in the INR 10-20 lakh price bracket.
4.    Launched Invicto, a robust hybrid-powered entrant in the INR 20 lakh+ segment.
5.    Expansive service network grew to 4,500+ touchpoints.

Exports

1.    Initiated exports of Fronx to Latin America, Middle East, and Africa.
2.    Maintained position as India's largest passenger vehicle exporter, with ~63,000 units shipped.

Carbon Footprint Reduction

1.    Record-high quarterly sales of CNG vehicles, exceeding 113,000 units; CNG penetration elevated to ~27%.
2.    Utilized railways for dispatching 1 lakh+ vehicles, contributing ~22% to overall dispatches.

Sustainable Energy Initiatives

1.    Announced plans to establish two solar plants, targeting ~22MWp capacity by FY’25.
2.    Planned expansion to raise total solar capacity to ~48MWp.

Financial Performance Highlights

Operating Efficiency and Cost Competitiveness:

1.    MSIL maintains industry-leading operating efficiency through continuous process enhancement and high indigenization.
2.    Established supplier relationships and flexible manufacturing processes contribute to effective cost management.

Operating Margin Improvement:

1.    Fiscal 2023 saw an operating margin recovery, rising to 9.4% from 6.5% in fiscal 2022.
2.    Improved margins attributed to lower raw material costs, enhanced semiconductor availability, and favourable product mix.

Strong Financial Risk Profile:

1.    Robust financial position with a substantial net worth and liquidity of ₹ 61,000 crore and  ₹47,000 crore respectively as of March 31, 2023.
2.    Strong cash generation capacity and minimal working capital debt.

Key Risk

1. Competition Impact: Intense rivalry in the PV market, increased players, potential impact on profitability and market share.
2. Model Launch Dependence: Success of new models vital for maintaining market position and operating profits.
3. Peers' SUV Advantage: Peers' early SUV introductions and semiconductor arrangements affected MSIL's market share.
4. Investment Impact: Regulatory compliance investments impacting returns; MSIL relatively better positioned.

Outlook

It is anticipated that the company will uphold its prominent standing in the domestic PV sector, backed by an extensive and thriving product line-up, upcoming releases, a well-established distribution network, and access to advanced technology. The organization is likely to sustain its sturdy financial risk profile, with expectations of maintaining superior liquidity.

Maruti Suzuki Share Price

2. TATA Motors

Key Operational Highlights

1. Strong Financial Quarter: Q4 FY2023 showcased robust performance, with revenue around ₹ 1 lakh crore and positive free cash flow of ₹ 7,800 crore.
2. JLR's Performance: JLR reported consistent success, achieving GBP 23 billion revenue, 2.4% EBIT, and holding GBP 3.8 billion in cash and GBP 3 billion net debt at year-end.
3. EV and Zero-Emission Mobility: Significantly active in e-mobility, with increasing electrified vehicle proportion, notable PHEV sales, and rising EV penetration in the PV market.
4. Product Launch and Portfolio Strategy: Emphasis on new nameplates, expanding portfolio in CNG and EV segments, while focusing on cost reduction and localization.
5. Supply Chain and Inventory: Managing dealer inventories, addressing supply chain transitions, and monitoring retail volume trends.

Financial Performance

1. Strengthened Financials: Ended the year with ₹ 21,000 crore revenue and 10.1% EBITDA.
2. EV Profitability: EV business approaching EBITDA neutrality, on track for sustainable profitability.
3. Investment Strategy: Higher investments in R&D, increased engineering expenses for product launches; substantial investments in electrification for CV and PV.

Key Risk

1. Market Challenges: Single-digit growth expected in the CV and PV industry; efforts to defend volume and market share with new models and portfolio expansion.
2. External Factors: Semiconductors, retail demand fluctuations, and supply availability could impact growth trajectory.

Outlook

1. Positive Outlook: Encouraging FY'24 prospects with supply focus, brand activation, and strategic execution.
2. EV Expansion: Significant investments in EV to continue; planning to invest ₹ 8,000 crore next year in electrification.
3. JLR Positioning: JLR aims to generate over GBP 2 billion cash, reducing net debt to GBP 1 billion, primarily through operational earnings.
4. Digital Focus: Investments in marketing and digital transformation to enhance brand health and engagement.
5. Fleet Edge and Digital Ventures: Leveraging connected trucks, digital businesses (E-Dukaan, lead generation), and strengthening PV registration market shares.
Tata Motors' comprehensive strategies in product launch, EV penetration, financial strengthening, and market resilience demonstrate a positive trajectory, aiming for sustainable growth and profitability.

TATA Motors Share Price

3. Hero MotoCorp

Key Operational Highlights

1. New Product Launch: Hero MotoCorp introduced the Harley-Davidson X440 at an appealing introductory price, with open bookings.
2. Market Focus and Distribution: Primarily targeting the Indian market, plans for expanded collaborations and exports are under exploration.
3. Wide Distribution Network: Deliveries will span Harley outlets, select Hero outlets, and more, utilizing the established network.
4. Collaboration and Partnership: The collaboration with Harley-Davidson extends beyond licensing, fostering value creation for both entities.

Financial Performance

1. Margin Expectations: Scale in the premium segment is anticipated to drive margins as the company introduces more products.
2. Strategic Investments: Significant R&D investments have been made, with capital reallocation toward EV and premium offerings.

Key Risks

1. Product Differentiation: Ensuring differentiation from Harley-Davidson products to prevent cannibalization poses a challenge.
2. Production and Delivery: While production capacity and delivery timeline were undisclosed, the company's agile supply chain instils confidence.

Outlook

1. Introductory Pricing and Market Target: Specifics regarding the duration of introductory pricing and target market remain undisclosed.
2. Hero MotoCorp's strategic move with the Harley-Davidson X440 launch showcases its focus on market expansion, product differentiation, and nurturing partnerships. Strategic investments are poised to drive growth, while operational agility enhances its competitive edge. The company's approach toward value creation through collaboration reflects its dedication to robust market positioning.
 

Hero MotoCorp Share Price