Etteplan - Anticipating some softness

Etteplan reports Q1 results on May 5th. We remain on the cautious side due to the seen increase in sick leaves. Some uncertainty is brought by Ukraine crisis but overall, we see no major changes to our views.

Cautious approach to Q1 due to increases in sick leaves
Etteplan reports Q1 results on May 5th. Our Q1 estimates remain more on the conservative side as a precaution given the increases in sick leaves seen in conjunction with the Q4 report, but with the good growth figures posted in Q4 there is certainly potential for faster growth. In terms of profitability, we expect a similar trend as during 2021, with the full-year EBIT-margins set to remain near the 9% mark. Our estimates for Q1 are unchanged ahead of the earnings report, with our net sales and EBIT estimates at EUR 81.2m (Q1/21: EUR 73.0m) and EUR 6.5m (Q1/21: EUR 6.6m) respectively.

Some potential indirect demand uncertainty
The guidance given for 2022 in the Q4 report was in our view quite solid, with revenue estimated to be between EUR 340-370m and EBIT to be between EUR 28-32m. The mid-range of the guidance according to our estimates would imply an organic growth of around 10% excluding potential new acquisitions. The situation in Ukraine has caused some additional demand uncertainty, although potential direct impacts should not be material, as Etteplan to our understanding does not have any significant business in the countries directly affected. Although we do not see any notable pressure on margins, we note that Etteplan proved its resilience and adaptability to changes in the demand environment during the pandemic. Our 2022 estimates remain unchanged, with our revenue and EBIT estimates at EUR 344.5m and 29.3m respectively.

HOLD with a target price of EUR 16.5 (17.5)
Although our estimates remain intact, we adjust our target price slightly to EUR 16.5 (17.5) in light of the added uncertainty factors. Our target price values Etteplan at approx. 19x 2022 P/E. We retain our HOLD-rating.

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