Automatic Data Processing Is A Stalwart, But Its Stock Doesn't Come Cheap

Beau Marshall
142 Followers
(37min)

Summary

  • ADP fits Peter Lynch's definition of a Stalwart.
  • The company's market dominance, attractive industry, good management, and growth plans position it well for continued success.
  • Revenue growth, margin expansion, share buybacks and dividends should continue to drive value for shareholders.
  • But the stock trades at a premium multiple, so there is no margin of safety if things don't go according to plan.

American African Holding Paycheck

AndreyPopov

Automatic Data Processing (NASDAQ:ADP) is a company that fits squarely into Peter Lynch's definition of Stalwarts: companies that grow earnings reliably at 10-12% a year and "are good friends in a crisis".

The company has an extraordinary track record

This article was written by

142 Followers
I am a UK-based long-only investor with a strategy which revolves around finding companies which can be multi-baggers over a 5-10 year time horizon, though, as a great man once said, my favourite holding period is forever. I am looking for companies that have a high probability of substantial revenue and earnings growth which is not fully appreciated in current market prices. I rarely take positions in stocks which are GAAP unprofitable, and if I do it will only be a small position. I am sector agnostic, though I prefer to invest in less cyclical and higher growth areas. My geographical bias is towards the United States. I have an Investment Management Certification qualification from the CFA Institute of the United Kingdom. I have found that writing helps me to crystallize my thoughts and to maintain sufficient rigour in my research process. It also helps me to hold myself accountable and to avoid mentally re-writing history. In fact, I recommend this salutary exercise to all active investors whether or not the writings are meant for publication. Seeking Alpha is a great resource with a flourishing community that I am happy to be a part of, so becoming a contributor was a natural step. I hope you enjoy my offerings.

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

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