Topic: Growth Stocks

STANTEC INC. $43.25 – Toronto symbol STN

STANTEC INC. $43.25 (Toronto symbol STN; TSINetwork Rating: Extra Risk) (780-917-7288; www.stantec.com; Shares outstanding: 46.0 million; Market cap: $2.0 billion; Dividend yield: 1.5%) sells a range of consulting, project delivery, design and technology services. Stantec’s clients operate in a variety of industries, including transportation, construction and oil and gas.

In the three months ended December 31, 2012, Stantec’s revenue rose 13.3%, to $483.9 million from $432.0 million a year earlier. Acquisitions were one reason for the increase. Stantec is also working on several new projects. Earnings rose 28.0%, to $31.1 million, or $0.67 a share, from $24.3 million, or $0.53.

Stantec continues to grow by acquisition, including purchases of seven companies in 2012. Its most recent addition was Landmark Survey and Mapping, a 24- person firm specializing in surveying and mapping for pipelines. Stantec sees major growth potential in the oil and gas and mining industries.

The company has raised its quarterly dividend by 10.0%, to $0.165 from $0.15. The shares now yield 1.5%.

Stantec cuts its costs by sharing administrative expenses, financing and employee benefits among its divisions. But continually buying and integrating new companies adds risk, including the risk of writedowns.

Stantec is a hold.

Comments

Tell Us What YOU Think

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Please be respectful with your comments and help us keep this an area that everyone can enjoy. If you believe a comment is abusive or otherwise violates our Terms of Use, please click here to report it to the administrator.