HTL Report-27-Aug-24
HTL Report-27-Aug-24
D: +92 21 38280264
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E: [email protected] | Corporate Finance House: 2023
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2023
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
Nov-23
Aug-24
Aug-23
Apr-24
Mar-24
Feb-24
Jul-24
May-24
Jan-24
Jun-24
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
Valuation
We have valued HTL using DCF-based valuation whereby our Jun’25 target price is
set at PKR 64.3/share, which translates into an upside potential of 65% from last
closing of PKR 38.3/share. Our valuation parameters include 3-yr adjusted beta of
1.5x, risk free rate of 15.0% and a risk premium of 6.0%, which gives a cost of equity
of 24.0%. Currently the stock is trading at FY25 and FY26 P/E of 3.7 and 2.6,
respectively. Hence, we recommend ‘BUY’ on the stock.
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
HTL operates a state-of-the-art blending plant through its wholly owned subsidiary, Hi-Tech
Blending (Private) Limited (HTBL). This facility is designed to produce lubricants that meet
international quality standards, complete with a comprehensive bottle processing unit and
advanced automated filling lines.
In 2017, the Company entered the retail service industry with HTL Express Centers, offering
a one-stop vehicle maintenance solution. In 2020-2021, the Company shifted its strategy to a
franchise model. Currently, franchises have been established in four major cities of Pakistan:
Lahore, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, and Karachi.
In 2020, the company entered into the sale and marketing of petroleum products in Punjab
under the brand name HTL Fuel Stations.
Further diversifying its portfolio, HTL has ventured into the polymer segment through HTBL.
This initiative includes the installation of cutting-edge machinery for the production of polymer
products for external customers.
Shareholding pattern
HTL boasts a shareholder base of 6,068 individuals, collectively holding 139.204mn
outstanding shares. The largest stake of 70.54% belongs to Directors, CEOs, their spouses,
and minor children. The general public follows with a significant ownership of 20.04% of the
shares. Associated companies, Modarabas & Mutual Funds, and others hold smaller portions,
with 5.9%, 1.0%, and 2.6% of HTL shares respectively
Others
4%
Associated Cos
6%
Individuals
19%
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
This strategic partnership is expected to significantly reduce costs by lowering customs duties
and taxes, as opposed to importing fully blended and packaged lubricants. Currently, a duty
of approximately 18-19% is levied on such imports, but this could be reduced to 12% if
agreement with SK Enmove Co. Ltd materializes. Consequently, HTL margins are anticipated
to rise substantial, leading to a surge in profitability.
If successfully implemented, this development could propel the company’s market share from
6% to 30% within three years, driven by enhanced pricing flexibility due to reduced customs
duties. It is also worth noting that the total lubricant market size in Pakistan is approximately
400,000 tons, according to our channel checks.
Exhibit: Historical sales of lubricant Exhibit: Lubricant market dominated by SHEL, PSO & TPPL
160,000
30% 14.8%
140,000
100,000
10% 23.2%
80,000
60,000 0%
40,000
-10% 25.2%
20,000
- -20%
2020
2021
2022
2023
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
We expect, due to the reduction in duties, the gross margins are expected to sky rocket,
reaching 17.4% in FY25 and 18.6% in FY26. No major cash outflow is anticipated for the local
blending of lubricants by the company, as during FY23 the company's capacity utilization stood
at 5.8% for blending and 6.7% for filing. With the new agreement with SK Enmove, HTL
anticipates a significant increase in production activity, with its capacity utilization reaching
80%.
56,000
20%
48,000
17%
40,000
32,000 15%
24,000
12%
16,000
10%
8,000
- 7%
FY24a
FY23a
FY25f
FY26f
FY27f
FY28f
FY29f
The lubricant market can be divided into three key segments i) Mineral/Classical oil ii) Premium
segment (fully synthetic) and iii) mid-tier segment (Semi-synthetic). Mineral oil, a conventional
option derived from refining crude oil, is known for its cost-effectiveness. In contrast, synthetic
oil is chemically engineered to meet specific vehicle requirements. Due to its high cost, this
segment captures only a small share of the overall lubricants market and is primarily dominated
by HTL and SHEL. Semi-synthetic oils, a blend of mineral and synthetic oils, offer a balance
of both and account for approximately ~60% of the total lubricant market share. It is imperative
to note that, in contrast to conventional oil, synthetic oil provides greater engine protection and
clearner engine due to its higher viscosity level. However, the conventional oil is two to three
times cheaper then fully synthetic oil.
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
Synthethic Uniform structure Good performance Higher resistance Enchance High High
Conventional oil Contains impurities Poor performance Less resistance Adequate Less Low
Currently, HTL has a preimum brand mostly focused on passenger cars motor oil
(PCMO), diesel engine oil (DEO) and motorcycle oil (MCO).
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
Local blending and surge in fuel stations set to boost lubricant market share
The mid-tier segment in Pakistan holds the largest share in the lubricant market, accounting
for approximately 60%. Honda Motor Company, a Japanese multinational conglomerate,
dominates the premium motorcycle oil market with a 90% share, offering a retail price of
around PKR 670 for a 0.7/liter bottle of CD70 bike oil. In comparison, HTL's price for the same
specification was PKR 1,000. However, following a recent shift to local blending, resulting in
the company to import raw material instead of imported finished product, HTL was able to
successfully reduced its price to PKR 650, making it more competitive. This strategic move is
expected to boost HTL's market share by leveraging a competitive pricing strategy.
Additionally, HTL's plan to expand its OMC segment will serve a dual purpose: increasing its
presence in the OMC market and providing mid-tier lubricant consumers with direct access to
lubricants, ultimately driving profitability for the company.
10,000 10%
8,000 5% 67%
6,000
0%
4,000
2,000 -5%
- -10%
FY24e
FY25f
FY26f
FY27f
FY28f
OMC Lubricant
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
Expanding petroleum business with new fuel outlets to drive growth Exhibit: Number of fuel stations as at FY23
City Name Number of HTL Fuel stations
Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited (HTL) is a key player in the procurement and distribution of
Lahore 3
lubricants and petroleum products. The company successfully manages the marketing and
sale of petroleum products through its network of HTL Fuel Stations, which are operated by Multan 3
dealers primarily in the Punjab Province. Currently, as per the management, there are a total Lalian 1
of 60 fuel stations across Punjab and KPK, which are expected to rise to 80 fuel stations by Faisalabad 2
the end of 2024 on the back of formal approval from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority Toba Tek Singh 1
(OGRA). Furthermore, the company is all set to increase its presense in Sindh, as the company Jaranwala 1
anticipates to receive Shikarpur depot license which is a pre-requisite for operations of fuel Hasilpur 1
stations. Additionally, the company expects to achieve a total of 150 fuel stations, as the Jhang 2
company has already signed 150 leases with the relevant dealers for 20 years. Gujranwala 3
Arifwala 1
Exhibit: Fuel stations projections Wazirabad 1
Total fuel stations Growth YoY (RHS) Lalamusa 1
160 150 125% Okara 3
140 Chakwal 1
100%
120 Bahawalpur 1
100 75% Rahim Yar Khan 1
80
80 Dera Ghazi Khan 1
60 51 50%
Rawalpindi 1
38
40 23 27 Islamabad 1
25%
20 Swat 3
0 0% Lower Dir 1
FY21a
FY22a
FY23a
FY24a
FY25e
FY26e
Malakand 1
Di Khan 2
Source: Compnay Financials, AHL Research Bannu 1
Mansehra 1
HTL’s white oil sales during FY24 witnessed a jump of 71% YoY to arrive at 0.45mn tons. The Total 38
company’s market share witnessed a massive jump of 86% to 0.29% in FY24 compared to Source: Company Accounts, AHL Research
0.16% in SPLY. We expect the sales of white oil to increase by 15% YoY in FY25, amid a
potential reduction in petroleum prices due to a downward trend in international oil prices, and
a revival of economy , moreover, we also expect the HTL to increase its market share due to
expansion plan of fuel station to 80, hence HTL will capture market share of white oil segment.
40,000
30,000 30,422
14,782
20,000
18,514
15,370
10,000
14,562 14,240
6,619 7,505
1,540
1,280
-
FY20
FY21
FY22
FY23
FY24
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
South, 29
Central, 58
North, 49
(000)
Capacity Production Utilization
7,000 70%
6,000 60%
5,000 50%
4,000 40%
3,000 30%
2,000 20%
1,000 10%
- 0%
Bottles Caps Injection moulding parts
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
To recall, HTL generated a loss of PKR 318mn (LPS: PKR 2.3) during 9MFY24 compared to
loss of PKR 179mn (LPS: PKR 1.29) during SPLY. The company is expected to post earnings
of PKR 442 mn (EPS: PKR 3.2) in 4QFY24, bringing the total earnings for FY24 to PKR 124mn
(EPS: PKR 0.89).
In FY25, we anticipate the company to achieve a significant earnings increase of PKR 1,473
mn (EPS: PKR 10.58). This surge is expected to be driven by improved margins resulting from
the import of raw materials rather than blended finished products, benefiting from reduced
customs duties and thereby enhancing profitability. Additionally, the expansion of fuel stations
is likely to sustain elevated profit levels.
Rising Auto Sales and completion of CPEC to drive Pakistan’s lubricant market
The lubricant market in Pakistan is segmented by product type and end-user industry. Product
types include engine oil, transmission and hydraulic fluid, general industrial oil, gear oils,
grease, and others such as process oil and turbine oil. In terms of end-user industries, the
market serves sectors like power generation, automotive and transportation, heavy equipment,
and food and beverage, along with construction and other industries.
It is pertinent to note that, in Pakistan’s lubricant market is highly concentrated into two
industries, namely automotive and textile industry. As auto sales, which holds the largest share
in Pakistan, are expected to increase, driven by lower auto financing costs and easing inflation,
the demand for lubricants is anticipated to grow. Moreover greases, heat transfer fluids, gear
oils, engine oils, transmission and hydraulic fluids, and anti-static oils are all essential
lubricants used in the textile sector, each engineered to withstand various operational loads.
With global interest rates beginning to decline, the demand for textile products is expected to
rise, leading to an increase in lubricant consumption within the industry, Additionally, the
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a 3,000-kilometer route encompassing road,
railway, energy, and other infrastructure projects, is likely to boost lubricant consumption due
to increased road transport. Hi-Tech Lubricants is well-positioned to capitalize on this
opportunity, leveraging its excess production capacity and strategic locations to meet the rising
demand. Furthermore, installation of IPPs under the CPEC umbrella would elevate the
requirement of lubricants.
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
160,000
250,000
140,000
120,000 200,000
30,041
100,000
150,000
80,000
60,000 100,000
94,776
40,000
50,000
20,000
Automotive oil Industrial oil Marline oil
- -
Auto oil Greaes Others
FY20
FY21
FY22
FY23
Source (s): OCAC, AHL Research Source (s): OCAC, AHL Research
Key risk(s)
• Failure to establish a presence in the mid-tier lubricant market could significantly
impact HTL's profitability
• Insufficient development of storage facilities and outlets across the country could
diminish profitability in the OMC segment and constrain lubricant sales.
• Higher than expected devaluation of PKR against the greenback could deteriorate
the profitability for the company.
• Higher use of electric vehicles could result in lower demand for lubricants.
• Changes in international markets, trade relations, or economic downturns could
influence demand for the company's products and services.
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
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Hi-Tech Lubricants Limited
Oil & Gas Marketing Conapmies
August 27, 2024
Detailed Report
Disclaimer
Analyst Certification: The research analyst(s) is (are) principally responsible for preparation of this report. The views expressed in this research report accurately reflect the
personal views of the analyst(s) about the subject security (ies) or sector (or economy), and no part of the compensation of the research analyst(s) was, is, or will be directly or
indirectly related to the specific recommendations and views expressed by research analyst(s) in this report. In addition, we currently do not have any interest (financial or otherwise)
in the subject security (ies). Furthermore, compensation of the Analyst(s) is not determined nor based on any other service(s) that AHL is offering. Analyst(s) are not subject to the
supervision or control of any employee of AHL’s non-research departments, and no personal engaged in providing non-research services have any influence or control over the
compensatory evaluation of the Analyst(s).
Equity Research Ratings
Arif Habib Limited (AHL) uses three rating categories, depending upon return form current market price, with Target period as Jun’25 for Target Price. In addition, return excludes
all type of taxes. For more details kindly refer the following table;
Rating Description
BUY Upside* of subject security(ies) is more than +15% from last closing of market price(s)
Upside* of subject security(ies) is between -15% and +15% from last closing of market
HOLD
price(s)
SELL Upside* of subject security(ies) is less than -15% from last closing of market price(s)
Risks
The following risks may potentially impact our valuations of subject security (ies);
➢ Market risk
➢ Interest Rate Risk
➢ Exchange Rate (Currency) Risk
This document has been prepared by Research analysts at Arif Habib Limited (AHL). This document does not constitute an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any
security. This publication is intended only for distribution to the clients of the Company who are assumed to be reasonably sophisticated investors that understand the risks involved
in investing in equity securities. The information contained herein is based upon publicly available data and sources believed to be reliable. While every care was taken to ensure
accuracy and objectivity, AHL does not represent that it is accurate or complete and it should not be relied on as such. In particular, the report takes no account of the investment
objectives, financial situation and particular needs of investors. The information given in this document is as of the date of this report and there can be no assurance that future
results or events will be consistent with this information. This information is subject to change without any prior notice. AHL reserves the right to make modifications and alterations
to this statement as may be required from time to time. However, AHL is under no obligation to update or keep the information current. AHL is committed to providing independent
and transparent recommendation to its client and would be happy to provide any information in response to specific client queries. Past performance is not necessarily a guide to
future performance. This document is provided for assistance only and is not intended to be and must not alone be taken as the basis for any investment decision. The user
assumes the entire risk of any use made of this information. Each recipient of this document should make such investigation as it deems necessary to arrive at an independent
evaluation of an investment in the securities of companies referred to in this document (including the merits and risks involved), and should consult his or her own advisors to
determine the merits and risks of such investment. AHL or any of its affiliates shall not be in any way responsible for any loss or damage that may be arise to any person from any
inadvertent error in the information contained in this report.
© 2023 Arif Habib Limited: Corporate Member of the Pakistan Stock Exchanges. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced, stored or disseminated in any form or by
any means without the prior written consent of Arif Habib Limited.
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