Detailed Narrative
FY23 Financial Performance and Order Book
Avantel delivered a strong financial performance in FY23, with revenue growing by 48.1% YoY to ₹154 crores from ₹104 crores. Profit also saw a significant increase of 50% YoY, reaching approximately ₹27 crores from ₹18 crores. The Net Profit After Tax margin improved to 23% from around 20%. The company currently holds an order book of ₹188 crores, with ₹68 crores already executed in the current quarter, indicating a healthy pipeline for future revenue recognition.
Strategic Focus on SDR Development and Market Opportunity
Avantel is heavily investing in the development of SCA compliant Software Defined Radios (SDRs) across various frequency bands (VHF, UHF, L, and S band) for both terrestrial and aerospace applications. The company aims to complete the development of all SDR flavors by 2025, positioning itself to capture a significant share of the Indian defense SDR market, estimated at ₹2500 crores annually. Indigenous content in SDRs has improved to 35% from 100% import previously, enhancing self-reliance and competitiveness.
Capacity Expansion and New Facilities
To support its growth and diversification plans, Avantel is expanding its infrastructure. A new 70,000 square feet facility in Vizag Electronic City, dedicated to SDRs, radars, and other electronics equipment, is expected to be operational by May-June 2024. Additionally, a two-acre facility in AMTZ Visakhapatnam for medical equipment manufacturing is planned, with construction starting in August-September and completion targeted by May 2024.
Entry into Medical Devices (IMAX) Segment
Avantel is venturing into the medical equipment sector, focusing on import substitution products like non-invasive ventilators, CPAP, BIPAP, patient monitors, and syringe pumps. These products are expected to be commercialized in FY25, with the segment projected to break even in FY25, though some losses may occur in FY24 due to the long certification process. The strategy aims to make healthcare more affordable and accessible with indigenous solutions.
Future Growth Outlook and NSE Listing
The company projects a turnover of ₹200 crores for FY24 and aims for ₹550 crores over the next two years (FY25-FY26), with ₹250 crores in FY25 and ₹300 crores in FY26. Management anticipates a healthy growth rate of 20-25% for the next three years while maintaining PAT margins of 20-23%. To enhance liquidity and broaden investor participation, Avantel plans to apply for NSE listing in June-July 2024, following the audited results.
Key Orders and Pipeline
Avantel is executing a significant order for 6300 loco terminals for the real-time train information system, expected to be completed by August 2023. A repeat order for 10,000-12,000 loco devices is anticipated by the end of FY24. The company has also secured a 50-crore order from the Indian Coast Guard for MSS systems and expects a tender for 5kW HF systems from the Indian Navy in the coming months, further strengthening its defense portfolio.