Vaisala: Solid quarter, some uncertainty ahead - Evli Research

Solid growth driven by Industrial Measurements

Vaisala reported its Q2 results, which with the preliminary figures given ahead of the quarter did not come as a larger surprise. Revenue growth was at a solid 20% and the operating result also improved clearly y/y to EUR 10.9m (Q2/20: EUR 7.9m). Both BU’s posted double-digit growth figures, with IM growth at 31% and W&E at 14%. Orders received grew 25% to EUR 120.1m and the order backlog as a result was up 14% to EUR 165.3m. Vaisala updated its guidance ahead of Q2, expecting revenue of EUR 400-420m and EBIT of EUR 40-50m. Vaisala will hold its Capital Markets Day on September 21st.

Underlying profitability better than expected

We have raised our estimates slightly, now expecting revenue of EUR 418.4m (prev. EUR 409.9m) and an operating result of EUR 48.2m (prev. EUR 45.0m). Vaisala’s Q2 result included an additional of EUR 2.2m relating to an update of the valuation of contingent considerations and the underlying profitability as such was clearly better than the reported operating result figures. The availability and cost of components was highlighted as a potential concern for H2, which we have reflected also in our estimates. Should the impact turn out to be small or negligible, the current guidance would appear to be rather conservative.

HOLD with a target price of EUR 36.0 (35.0)

On our revised estimates we adjust our target price to EUR 36.0 (35.0) and retain our HOLD-rating. Vaisala’s performance in Q2 was solid, but the already stretched valuation (30.3x 2022 P/E) and uncertainty relating to component cost and availability is something to consider.

https://pankki.evli.com/hubfs/ERP/Raportit/Vaisala/Vaisala%20210726%20Q2%20Company%20update.pdf