Shareholders in NEBAG AG (VTX:NBEN) Face Losses from Five-Year Investments

“NEBAG AG shareholders who invested five years ago have seen a 38% drop in share price, resulting in a total shareholder return of -21% after dividends; the company reported shrinking revenues and ongoing losses, underperforming the broader market.”

Long-term holders of NEBAG AG, a Swiss-based investment firm focused on small and mid-cap equities, have endured significant setbacks. The stock, listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange under ticker NBEN, closed recently at 5.80 CHF, reflecting a steep decline from levels five years prior. This price erosion translates to a 38% total drop in share value over the period, equating to an annualized loss of about 7%. Such performance highlights challenges in the capital markets sector, where NEBAG operates by holding stakes in undervalued Swiss firms.

Impact of Dividends on Total Returns

While the pure share price has plummeted, dividends have provided some cushion. Over the five-year span, NEBAG distributed cumulative payouts totaling approximately 2.09 CHF per share. These distributions, assuming reinvestment, improve the picture slightly, yielding a total shareholder return (TSR) of -21%. Without dividends, the losses would be even more pronounced. The latest dividend, at 0.29 CHF per share, offers a forward yield of around 5%, but this hasn’t offset the underlying value erosion.

Revenue and Profitability Trends

YearDividend per Share (CHF)Share Price at Year-End (CHF, Approx.)Annual TSR (%)
20210.408.50-5.0
20220.507.20-10.2
20230.586.40-6.5
20240.326.00-3.8
20250.295.80-4.1

NEBAG’s financials reveal underlying issues contributing to the stock’s weakness. Revenues have contracted at an average rate of 2.5% annually over the five years, dropping from higher levels to about 1.28 million CHF in the trailing twelve months. The firm remains unprofitable, with net losses widening to -3.21 million CHF recently, up from prior periods. Earnings per share stand at -0.35 CHF, underscoring operational strains amid volatile markets and limited portfolio gains.

Comparison to Broader Market Benchmarks

Against the Swiss market and global indices, NEBAG’s results lag considerably. While the broader market posted gains of around 18% in the past year alone, NEBAG shareholders absorbed a 5.2% TSR loss over the same timeframe. Over five years, the company’s annualized TSR loss of 4% contrasts with positive returns in major benchmarks like the SMI Index, which advanced modestly despite economic headwinds. This underperformance stems partly from NEBAG’s exposure to niche Swiss segments, which faced pressures from inflation, interest rate hikes, and sector-specific downturns.

Key Financial Metrics at a Glance

Market Capitalization: 52.93 million CHF

Beta (5-Year Monthly): 0.11, indicating low volatility relative to the market

Trailing P/E Ratio: Not applicable due to losses

Debt-to-Equity Ratio: Minimal, with a focus on equity investments

Operating Cash Flow: Negative in recent quarters, reflecting investment outflows

These metrics paint a picture of a firm grappling with value creation, where portfolio holdings have not appreciated sufficiently to drive positive returns for shareholders.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, investment recommendations, or an endorsement of any securities. Readers should conduct their own research and consult qualified professionals before making investment decisions. All data and opinions are based on publicly available information and are subject to change.

Leave a Comment