Buy this ASX tech stock for a 20%+ return: Goldman Sachs

The broker believes investors could get market-beating returns from this auto listings leader.

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

There could be some big returns on offer in the tech sector still according to analysts at Goldman Sachs.

One such example is ASX tech stock CAR Group Limited (ASX: CAR).

A businessman looking at his digital tablet or strategy planning in hotel conference lobby. He is happy at achieving financial goals.

Image source: Getty Images

What is the broker saying about this ASX tech stock?

According to a note out of the investment bank this morning, its analysts believe the auto listings company is well-placed for strong growth over the coming years despite some foreign exchange and Trader Interactive (TI) headwinds. It commented:

We revisit the near-term earnings outlook for CAR ahead of FY24 results, noting recent investor queries around: (1) US and AU dealer health; (2) FX; and (3) potential M&A. Overall, we remain confident that despite spot FX and TI dealer headwinds, CAR is well-placed to continue delivering 'good' earnings growth (i.e. > 10% EBITDA) & remains our preferred classified into earnings.

Goldman also highlights that the ASX tech stock's Australian business is performing strongly despite a challenging ad-market. It said:

AU trends remain robust, particularly in used, with volumes (> 95% of total) remaining solid (Ex 4-7); pricing power continues (i.e. 5-6% price increase in private, we expect 4-5% dealer increase in Sept, as used dealer margins remain strong & CAR didn't increase materially through covid), while media revenues are supported by healthy new car volumes despite the challenging ad-market. With elevated CAR domestic opex growth in 1H24 (13.4%), there is also scope to slow investment and maintain double digit EBITDA growth.

Big returns

In light of the above, the broker has reaffirmed its buy rating on the ASX tech stock with an improved price target of $41.40. Based on its current share price of $34.76, this implies potential upside of 19.1% for investors over the next 12 months.

In addition, Goldman Sachs is forecasting partially franked dividend yields of 2.1% in FY 2024 and 2.3% in FY 2025. This brings the total potential 12-month return beyond 21%, which is more than double the historical return of the share market.

Goldman then concludes by summarising its buy thesis. It said:

Carsales is the largest Auto classified domestically, in addition to having strong international operations in Korea, US (Non-auto) and LATAM. We are Buy rated on CAR as we are increasingly confident in the company's earnings momentum (both locally & globally) – forecasting +11% EPS CAGR across FY24-27E. Downside risks include: (1) Global macro trends; (2) dealer relationships; (3) FX exposure.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Car Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Technology Shares

Smiling couple looking at a phone at a bargain opportunity.
Technology Shares

3 bargain ASX tech shares I'd buy right now

Tech shares have sold off, but that could be creating opportunities.

Read more »

defence personnel operating and discussing defence technology
Technology Shares

Why EOS shares are tumbling 11% today as investors weigh a key defence catalyst

EOS shares fall 11% as investors await a key contract update.

Read more »

Buy and sell written on a white cube.
Technology Shares

Why this top fundie is tipping Life360 shares for outsized gains

A leading fund manager believes Life360’s beaten-down shares could be set for a large rebound.

Read more »

Robot humanoid using artificial intelligence on a laptop.
Technology Shares

Xero shares push higher on deal with AI giant Anthropic

This tech stock is avoiding the market selloff on Friday.

Read more »

A man sits in despair at his computer with his hands either side of his head, staring into the screen with a pained and anguished look on his face, in a home office setting.
Technology Shares

Why are Weebit Nano shares crashing 15% today?

Let's see why this tech stock is sinking on Friday.

Read more »

A woman scratches her head, thinking is this a no-brainer?
Technology Shares

Down 65%: Are Pro Medicus shares in the buy zone yet?

Pro Medicus has had one of its toughest periods yet...

Read more »

Red arrow going down, symbolising a falling share price.
Technology Shares

Why is this battered ASX tech stock losing big today?

Analysts remain bullish and see 110% upside for the growth share.

Read more »

A dollar sign embedded in ice, indicating a share price freeze or trading halt
Technology Shares

This ASX tech stock is frozen today. Here's what's going on

ASX tech stock enters halt as a capital raising looms.

Read more »