Our opinion on the current state of MASTDRILL(MDI)Master Drilling (MDI) is a South African company that specialises in drilling exploration and other holes for the mining industry. It has diversified into drilling for hydro-electrical projects and construction. The company has moved away from the South African mining industry and now provides services in North and South America, Europe, and elsewhere.
Master Drilling has developed a new horizontal drilling technology, or tunnel boring machine, which could revolutionise the mining industry worldwide. This technology enables the drilling of horizontal tunnels or tunnels inclined up or down by 12 degrees. It is much quicker and cheaper than the traditional blast-and-clear methods currently in use. At the moment, it requires three operators, but the company is working on a completely automated, remote-controlled version.
In its results for the six months to 30th June 2024, the company reported revenue up 17.3% and headline earnings per share (HEPS) down 3.2% (in US dollars). The company's net asset value (NAV) increased 8% to 135c per share. The company said, "...operating profit decreased by 67.6% to USD6.9 million due to impairment losses recognised on reverse circulation and mobile tunnel-boring equipment."
In a trading statement for the year to 31st December 2024, the company estimated that HEPS would increase by between 16.4% and 26.4%. It is now trading at about 62% of its net asset value (NAV) and on a price:earnings (P:E) multiple of 5.25 - which looks like good value.
We regard the company's horizontal drilling technology as a potentially disruptive technology in the mining industry. It extends the life of some mines and makes others viable again. While this is a risky share due to its link to the commodities markets, it has the potential to offer strong growth because of its new technologies. These innovations could revolutionise the mining industry.
In our view, this is an interesting company with the potential to perform well as its new horizontal boring machine gains traction.