Unveiling Paycom Software (PAYC)'s Value: Is It Really Priced Right? A Comprehensive Guide

An In-Depth Analysis of Paycom Software's Current Market Valuation

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Recent fluctuations in the stock market have shown Paycom Software Inc (PAYC, Financial) experiencing a daily loss of 3.04%, contributing to a three-month decline of 8.13%. Despite these setbacks, the company boasts an Earnings Per Share (EPS) of 8.21. This raises a critical question: is Paycom Software significantly undervalued? This article delves into a detailed valuation analysis to explore this query.

Company Overview

Established in 1998, Paycom Software is a leading provider of payroll and human capital management software, focusing on businesses with 50 to 10,000 employees across the United States. As of 2023, Paycom services approximately 19,500 clients. The company not only specializes in payroll solutions but also offers a suite of complementary HCM modules such as talent management, time and attendance, and benefits administration. With a market cap of $9.80 billion and sales reaching $1.70 billion, Paycom Software stands out in its sector for its robust operating margin of 33.11% and a solid Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) of 12.56%.

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Understanding GF Value

The GF Value is a proprietary measure used to determine the fair value of a stock. It incorporates historical trading multiples, a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on past returns and growth, and projected future business performance. According to our analysis, Paycom Software (PAYC, Financial) appears significantly undervalued with a GF Value of $450.56, suggesting a potential undervaluation at its current price of $168.77.

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Financial Strength and Stability

Investing in companies with robust financial health reduces the risk of permanent capital loss. Paycom Software showcases a strong financial foundation with a cash-to-debt ratio of 12.8, surpassing 70.49% of its peers in the software industry. This is a testament to its financial prudence and strategic debt management. The company's overall financial strength has earned a GuruFocus rating of 8 out of 10.

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Profitability and Growth Prospects

Paycom Software has not only been profitable over the past decade but has also maintained high profit margins, a key indicator of investment safety. The company's impressive operating margin of 33.11% ranks higher than 96.06% of its industry counterparts. Furthermore, Paycom has demonstrated strong growth metrics, with a three-year average annual revenue growth rate of 26.5%, positioning it well above 82.31% of companies in the software sector.

ROIC vs. WACC

An effective way to gauge a company's profitability is to compare its Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) against its Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC). Paycom Software's ROIC stands at 12.56, outperforming its WACC of 10.48. This indicates that the company efficiently generates value as it grows, reaffirming its strong market position and investment potential.

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Conclusion

Considering the substantial gap between its current market price and the GF Value, along with its robust financial health, profitability, and growth prospects, Paycom Software (PAYC, Financial) is significantly undervalued. This analysis suggests a promising outlook for long-term investment returns. For a deeper understanding of Paycom Software's financials, explore its 30-Year Financials here.

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This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.

Disclosures

I/We may personally own shares in some of the companies mentioned above. However, those positions are not material to either the company or to my/our portfolios.