Did you know there are some financial metrics that can provide clues of a potential multi-bagger? Firstly, we'll want to see a proven return on capital employed (ROCE) that is increasing, and secondly, an expanding base of capital employed. Put simply, these types of businesses are compounding machines, meaning they are continually reinvesting their earnings at ever-higher rates of return. Speaking of which, we noticed some great changes in Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group's (SHSE:601177) returns on capital, so let's have a look.

Understanding Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)

For those that aren't sure what ROCE is, it measures the amount of pre-tax profits a company can generate from the capital employed in its business. Analysts use this formula to calculate it for Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) ÷ (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.018 = CN¥57m ÷ (CN¥4.9b - CN¥1.7b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023).

Thus, Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group has an ROCE of 1.8%. In absolute terms, that's a low return and it also under-performs the Machinery industry average of 6.1%.

See our latest analysis for Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group

Historical performance is a great place to start when researching a stock so above you can see the gauge for Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group's ROCE against it's prior returns. If you're interested in investigating Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group's past further, check out this free graph of past earnings, revenue and cash flow.

How Are Returns Trending?

While in absolute terms it isn't a high ROCE, it's promising to see that it has been moving in the right direction. Over the last five years, returns on capital employed have risen substantially to 1.8%. Basically the business is earning more per dollar of capital invested and in addition to that, 44% more capital is being employed now too. The increasing returns on a growing amount of capital is common amongst multi-baggers and that's why we're impressed.

The Bottom Line On Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group's ROCE

A company that is growing its returns on capital and can consistently reinvest in itself is a highly sought after trait, and that's what Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group has. And since the stock has fallen 14% over the last five years, there might be an opportunity here. That being the case, research into the company's current valuation metrics and future prospects seems fitting.

On a final note, we've found 1 warning sign for Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group that we think you should be aware of.

While Hangzhou Advance Gearbox Group may not currently earn the highest returns, we've compiled a list of companies that currently earn more than 25% return on equity. Check out this free list here.

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.