Jhunjhunwala Stock Doubles in 6 Months: Will It Hit Rs 1,700?

VA Tech Wabag: A Multibagger Stock Journey

VA Tech Wabag has emerged as a remarkable performer in the stock market, with shares doubling in value over the past six months. This surge can be attributed to various factors, including strong financial performance and strategic initiatives. As of March 15, 2024, the stock was priced at Rs 702.8, and by September 18, 2024, it had reached Rs 1,397.35, marking a significant increase of nearly 100%. Notably, during the same period, the BSE Smallcap Index gained 36%, illustrating Wabag’s outstanding performance in comparison to the broader market.

Company Overview

VA Tech Wabag, which specializes in water and wastewater treatment solutions, has a market capitalization of Rs 8,694 crore. Over the past year, the stock has appreciated by 194%, while it saw a 140% increase over a two-year timeline. The company’s stock carries a one-year beta of 1, indicating its volatility is on par with the overall market, providing potential investors insight into its risk profile.

Prominent Stakeholders

Rekha Jhunjhunwala, the wife of late investment legend Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, holds a significant stake in the company, owning 50 lakh shares which accounts for approximately 8.04% of the company’s total shares. This association adds to the stock’s credibility and appeal among investors.

Market Performance Insights

It’s noteworthy that on October 12, 2023, the stock hit a 52-week low of Rs 436.35, providing a stark contrast to its impressive current valuation. Such fluctuations highlight the company’s resilience and the subsequent recovery that can be attributed to its strategic initiatives and market conditions.

Analyst Coverage and Price Targets

Axis Securities has recently initiated coverage on VA Tech Wabag, recommending it as a ‘buy’ with a price target of Rs 1,700 per share. They highlight that the stock is currently trading at 18 times the estimated EPS for FY26, indicating a favorable valuation. In parallel, ICICI Securities has also expressed optimism about the stock’s future, raising their price target from Rs 1,445 crore to Rs 1,541 crore. Their research points to Wabag’s strengthened balance sheet and improved profit margins over the past two years, underpinning a solid outlook for the company’s growth.

Conclusion

As VA Tech Wabag continues to impress investors with its robust growth trajectory and strategic initiatives, it remains a notable player in the stock market. With the backing of prominent investors and positive analyst recommendations, it presents an attractive opportunity for those looking to diversify their portfolios with high growth potential stocks.