What trends should we look for it we want to identify stocks that can multiply in value over the long term? 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. Having said that, from a first glance at Hangzhou Electronic Soul Network Technology (SHSE:603258) we aren't jumping out of our chairs at how returns are trending, but let's have a deeper look.

What Is Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)?

Just to clarify if you're unsure, ROCE is a metric for evaluating how much pre-tax income (in percentage terms) a company earns on the capital invested in its business. The formula for this calculation on Hangzhou Electronic Soul Network Technology is:

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

0.053 = CN¥125m ÷ (CN¥2.7b - CN¥391m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023).

So, Hangzhou Electronic Soul Network Technology has an ROCE of 5.3%. In absolute terms, that's a low return, but it's much better than the Entertainment industry average of 3.8%.

Above you can see how the current ROCE for Hangzhou Electronic Soul Network Technology compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you'd like, you can check out the forecasts from the analysts covering Hangzhou Electronic Soul Network Technology for free.

What Does the ROCE Trend For Hangzhou Electronic Soul Network Technology Tell Us?

The returns on capital haven't changed much for Hangzhou Electronic Soul Network Technology in recent years. The company has employed 42% more capital in the last five years, and the returns on that capital have remained stable at 5.3%. Given the company has increased the amount of capital employed, it appears the investments that have been made simply don't provide a high return on capital.

The Bottom Line

As we've seen above, Hangzhou Electronic Soul Network Technology's returns on capital haven't increased but it is reinvesting in the business. And investors may be recognizing these trends since the stock has only returned a total of 20% to shareholders over the last five years. Therefore, if you're looking for a multi-bagger, we'd propose looking at other options.

One more thing: We've identified 3 warning signs with Hangzhou Electronic Soul Network Technology (at least 1 which shouldn't be ignored) , and understanding these would certainly be useful.

For those who like to invest in solid companies, check out this free list of companies with solid balance sheets and high returns on equity.

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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.