If you're not sure where to start when looking for the next multi-bagger, there are a few key trends you should keep an eye out for. Firstly, we'd want to identify a growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and then alongside that, an ever-increasing base of capital employed. If you see this, it typically means it's a company with a great business model and plenty of profitable reinvestment opportunities. However, after briefly looking over the numbers, we don't think Aecc Aero-Engine ControlLtd (SZSE:000738) 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. To calculate this metric for Aecc Aero-Engine ControlLtd, this is the formula:

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

0.052 = CN¥665m ÷ (CN¥16b - CN¥3.0b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023).

So, Aecc Aero-Engine ControlLtd has an ROCE of 5.2%. On its own that's a low return on capital but it's in line with the industry's average returns of 5.2%.

Above you can see how the current ROCE for Aecc Aero-Engine ControlLtd 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 Aecc Aero-Engine ControlLtd for free.

What Does the ROCE Trend For Aecc Aero-Engine ControlLtd Tell Us?

There are better returns on capital out there than what we're seeing at Aecc Aero-Engine ControlLtd. The company has employed 114% more capital in the last five years, and the returns on that capital have remained stable at 5.2%. This poor ROCE doesn't inspire confidence right now, and with the increase in capital employed, it's evident that the business isn't deploying the funds into high return investments.

In Conclusion...

As we've seen above, Aecc Aero-Engine ControlLtd's returns on capital haven't increased but it is reinvesting in the business. And with the stock having returned a mere 15% in the last five years to shareholders, you could argue that they're aware of these lackluster trends. As a result, if you're hunting for a multi-bagger, we think you'd have more luck elsewhere.

Like most companies, Aecc Aero-Engine ControlLtd does come with some risks, and we've found 1 warning sign that you should be aware of.

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.