Returns On Capital At Saga Communications (NASDAQ:SGA) Paint A Concerning Picture

Saga Communications (NASDAQ: SGA), a media company specializing in broadcast properties, has seen its Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) decline over the past three years, raising concerns among investors. This article delves into the factors contributing to SGA's declining ROCE and its implications for the company's future.

Saga Communications' ROCE has dropped from 6.88% in 2021 to 3.22% in 2024, a significant decrease that signals potential issues within the company. This decline can be attributed to several factors, including sluggish earnings growth, decreasing profit margins, and inefficient asset utilization.

Firstly, SGA's earnings growth has slowed significantly, with a 5-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of -20.15%. This sluggish earnings growth, coupled with a decrease in profit margins from 5.2% in 2021 to 4.2% in 2024, has negatively impacted ROCE. Additionally, SGA's asset turnover has decreased, indicating that the company is not efficiently utilizing its assets to generate revenue.



Moreover, SGA's return on equity (ROE) has also declined, from 3.5% in 2021 to 2.8% in 2024. This suggests that the company is not effectively transforming shareholder equity into returns. These factors combined have contributed to SGA's declining ROCE, painting a concerning picture for investors.

Saga Communications' dividend history and yield also raise concerns. While SGA's dividend yield of 8.56% is significantly higher than the US Broadcasting industry average of 1.5% and the S&P 500's 1.8%, the company's dividend history shows volatility. A -46.67% decrease in 2024 compared to 2023 indicates potential risks for SGA investors.

To improve its ROCE, SGA should focus on increasing its earnings growth and profit margins. The company could explore strategic partnerships or acquisitions to expand its market reach and generate synergies. Additionally, SGA should consider increasing its capital expenditure (CapEx) to maintain and upgrade its assets, or leverage external resources to enhance its competitive position.

In conclusion, Saga Communications' declining ROCE paints a concerning picture for investors. The company's sluggish earnings growth, decreasing profit margins, and inefficient asset utilization are contributing factors to this trend. To reverse this decline, SGA must take proactive measures to improve its earnings growth, profit margins, and asset utilization. Investors should closely monitor SGA's performance and consider the risks associated with its volatile dividend history.