Credit Suisse positive on auto parts makers

Estimates 10-15% medium-term growth for most segments of the industry

new York  June 8, 2012, 13:09 IST

Credit Suisse initiates coverage of India's auto components makers and says the sector offers "a structural positive story and a large higher margin replacement market."

"Given low penetration levels of most vehicle segments and that income levels in India should continue to grow over the next few years, most segments of the auto industry are expected to see a 10-15% CAGR over the medium term," Credit Suisse says in the note.

India's top car makers with high import need are looking to increase locally-sourced parts as a weak rupee increases the cost of overseas components.

Credit Suisse initiates Exide Industries with an 'outperform' rating, with a target price of Rs 159. Sees strong cyclical growth in the next two years in the higher-margin replacement segment. Exide shares last up 0.6% at Rs 128.95.

Initiates coverage on Bosch with 'outperform' and a target price of Rs 10,292. Adds that as the leader in diesel engine components, stands to benefit from the increased volumes of diesel vehicles. Bosch shares last down 0.3% at Rs 8,858.05.

But Credit Suisse starts Apollo Tyres with an "underperform" and a target price of Rs 77 as a shift towards radial tyres, or tube-less tires, would entail the company would need to increase capacity via capital spending. Apollo share fall 1.8% to Rs 81.90.