Ukraine's solid macroeconomic backdrop (average growth over the last three years in real GDP at 6% and real disposable income at 16%) is providing the spark to the domestic automotive sector. On the mid-term horizon is the creation of larger auto holdings, which are likely to involve all traded names, to mixed benefit. Taking the holdings public will serve as catalysts. Our top pick in the segment is Bogdan Automobile Plant, on the strength of its current expansion plan, which we believe is not fully factored into its stock price.
Ukrainian macroeconomic backdrop paves the road
Over 2005-2007, the rapid expansion in the Ukrainian economy (real GDP growth at 6% CAGR) and accelerating transportation needs (freight turnover doubled) led to a 156% upshift in new car sales. We expect that in the mid-term, the Ukrainian automotive sector will enjoy double digit growth based on the sound outlook for real disposable income (13% annual growth over 2008-09), real GDP (7% annual growth over 2008-09), and freight and passenger transportation.
WTO & dependence on suppliers: margin constrictors
Two key factors will restrict Ukrainian car producers' margins: the 15%-25% drop in import duties for cars in 2009 as part of Ukraine's WTO accession accords and the high bargaining power of auto part suppliers. Meanwhile, with less dependence on the supply chain, truck producers will be better able to defend their margins.
Holdings' strategic plans rife with catalysts
Last year Bogdan and AvtoKrAZ announced strategic plans to create holdings and thereafter to take the new structures public. We expect IPOs by these automotive holdings over 2008-2009 to provide catalysts for underlying stocks. The plans of UkrAvto's owner to create a car distribution holding, in our view, carry high risk of asset stripping or dilution at UkrAvto.
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