IPO valuation is a crucial component of the IPO process, determining the initial price at which a company's shares will be offered to the public. This task is complex and requires a deep understanding of financial principles and the broader market landscape. Merchant bankers play a key role in assisting companies with this intricate process.
Understanding IPO Valuation
What is IPO Valuation?
IPO valuation is essentially the process of establishing a fair market value for a company, which helps in setting the IPO price. Various factors impact this valuation, and a merchant banker is tasked with thoroughly analyzing these elements. The findings are then submitted to SEBI as part of the draft IPO prospectus, outlining the rationale behind the pricing. SEBI reviews this to safeguard investors' interests.
Correctly pricing a stock is vital, an overpriced stock may deter investors, while an underpriced one could raise skepticism.
Key Factors Influencing IPO Valuation
IPO valuation hinges on a company's health and performance. In addition, industry trends and market conditions also play significant roles. Here are the primary factors that influence an IPO's valuation:
1. Demand
High demand generally leads to a higher price, as investors are willing to pay more to own a part of the company. However, demand alone isn't a foolproof indicator of success. For instance, the Paytm and LIC IPOs were highly anticipated but debuted at a discount, causing investor losses.
2. Past Financial Performance
A company's financial history is a cornerstone of its valuation. Essential financial metrics include:
- Assets
- Liabilities
- Revenue-generating capacity
- Earnings per share (EPS)
- Price-to-earnings ratio (PE ratio)
- Return on net worth (RoNW)
- Net asset value per share (NAV per share)
3. Peer Comparison
IPO valuations often align with industry peers. Companies assess competitor valuations and market prices to ensure their offering is competitive. Significant discrepancies can deter investors.
4. Potential Growth Rate
Companies with promising future prospects attract more investors. For example, a firm raising funds for expansion may have a higher valuation than one seeking to clear debts.
5. IPO Timing and Market Trend
Market conditions and timing also affect valuation. In downturns, high valuations may fail to attract investors.
6. Products and Services
A company's offerings can influence its valuation. Products that enhance everyday life or are deemed essential may command higher prices.
7. Company Management and Values
Experienced leadership, reputable promoters, and a solid corporate history can lead to a higher valuation.
The IPO Valuation Process
The IPO valuation process is intricate, requiring skilled merchant bankers to analyze numerous factors. These professionals leverage their expertise to navigate this complex landscape.
To determine a company's valuation, a merchant banker must:
- Collect historical data and financial details.
- Analyze the gathered information.
- Conduct an audit of the data.
- Benchmark against competitors' valuations.
- Evaluate all influencing factors.
- Employ suitable valuation techniques.
- Document findings in the draft offer.
- Submit the data to SEBI for approval.
Methods for Valuing an IPO
Various methods are available for calculating IPO valuation. Merchant bankers may use one or a combination of techniques. Some are purely mathematical, while others rely on relative comparisons and assumptions. Here are some popular methods:
1. Relative Valuation Method
Also known as the comparable valuation method, this approach involves comparing key ratios of similar publicly traded companies. These ratios include:
- Revenue
- Earnings
- Market capitalization
Based on these comparisons, a valuation for the issuing company is determined.
Steps in Relative Valuation Method
This 4-step process requires analytical skills and market knowledge:
- Identify similar industry companies.
- Select IPO valuation multiples, such as PE ratio and EPS.
- Compare these values across similar firms.
- Adjust for unique strengths, risks, and growth potential.
Example of Relative Valuation
Consider valuing an IT sector business. Suppose the IT sector's PE ratio is 24%, and your business's EBIT is Rs 15.75 crores. Using a PE range of 15-20%, the valuation might be:
PE Multiple Valuation = PE Multiple * EBIT
Relative Valuation Method Example
Industry PE Range | Valuation (Rs Cr) 15 | 236.25 20 | 315.00
This method estimates a valuation range of approximately Rs. 240 crores to Rs. 315 crores.
2. Absolute Valuation Method
This standalone method focuses on future cash flows to determine a company's current value, ignoring industry comparisons. It relies on the time value of money and is challenging due to long-term forecasts.
Steps in Absolute Valuation
- Project cash flows for a defined period.
- Calculate weighted average cost of capital (WACC) as the discount rate.
- Determine present values of cash flows.
- Sum up projected cash flows.
- Calculate the terminal value.
- Add terminal value to discounted cash flows for the present business value.
Absolute Valuation Example
Particulars | Actuals | Projected Figures (in Rs Cr) Financial Year | Current FY | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 Revenue (A) | 20.25 | 24.30 | 29.16 | 34.99 | 41.99 | 50.39
Valuation = Sum of all discounted cash flows + Terminal Value | Rs 255.35 Cr
3. Economic Valuation Method
A formula-based approach, this method calculates enterprise value using:
Enterprise value = Market capitalization + Cash - Debt and liabilities
Unlike other methods, this approach avoids comparisons and assumptions.
Each method has strengths and weaknesses. The merchant banker selects the best approach based on experience, goals, and market conditions. In some situations, they may involve third-party valuers.
Additionally, companies may use past fundraising rounds for self-assessment. If Rs 5 lakhs were raised for 10% equity, the valuation is Rs 50 lakhs. This free assessment offers insights into company valuation.
IPO Valuation in India
In India, IPO valuation is conducted by qualified merchant bankers. They meticulously analyze company details, market conditions, and peer data to choose the best approach. The merchant banker ensures transparency in pricing, documented in the "Basis for Offer Price/Issue Price" section.
SEBI reviews the information and may provide feedback or approval.
Distinction Between IPO Pricing and Valuation
While often used interchangeably, IPO pricing and valuation are distinct. Valuation is a factor in pricing, as detailed in our IPO pricing section.
Page Glossary
1. Terminal Value
Terminal value estimates business worth beyond the forecast period, using either sale multiples or perpetual growth rates.
2. Intrinsic Value
Intrinsic value represents a stock's true worth, based on analysis of its fundamentals, distinct from market value.
3. Weighted Average Cost of Capital
WACC, the cost of capital from debt or equity, reflects expected returns for raising funds.
4. Undervalued Stock
An undervalued stock trades below its true worth, presenting long-term investment opportunities after thorough analysis.
5. Overvalued Stock
An overvalued stock trades above its true worth, requiring strategic exits to avoid losses.