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. Basically this means that a company has profitable initiatives that it can continue to reinvest in, which is a trait of a compounding machine. However, after briefly looking over the numbers, we don't think Shanghai Laimu ElectronicsLtd (SHSE:603633) has the makings of a multi-bagger going forward, but let's have a look at why that may be.

What Is 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. The formula for this calculation on Shanghai Laimu ElectronicsLtd is:

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

0.047 = CN¥99m ÷ (CN¥3.2b - CN¥1.1b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023).

So, Shanghai Laimu ElectronicsLtd has an ROCE of 4.7%. In absolute terms, that's a low return and it also under-performs the Electrical industry average of 6.3%.

See our latest analysis for Shanghai Laimu ElectronicsLtd

While the past is not representative of the future, it can be helpful to know how a company has performed historically, which is why we have this chart above. If you want to delve into the historical earnings, revenue and cash flow of Shanghai Laimu ElectronicsLtd, check out these free graphs here.

The Trend Of ROCE

On the surface, the trend of ROCE at Shanghai Laimu ElectronicsLtd doesn't inspire confidence. Over the last five years, returns on capital have decreased to 4.7% from 9.0% five years ago. Although, given both revenue and the amount of assets employed in the business have increased, it could suggest the company is investing in growth, and the extra capital has led to a short-term reduction in ROCE. If these investments prove successful, this can bode very well for long term stock performance.

Our Take On Shanghai Laimu ElectronicsLtd's ROCE

While returns have fallen for Shanghai Laimu ElectronicsLtd in recent times, we're encouraged to see that sales are growing and that the business is reinvesting in its operations. Furthermore the stock has climbed 75% over the last five years, it would appear that investors are upbeat about the future. So should these growth trends continue, we'd be optimistic on the stock going forward.

Shanghai Laimu ElectronicsLtd does have some risks, we noticed 2 warning signs (and 1 which can't be ignored) we think you should know about.

While Shanghai Laimu ElectronicsLtd isn't earning the highest return, check out this free list of companies that are earning high returns on equity with solid balance sheets.

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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.