The auto components maker is currently defending against a hostile takeover attempt by competitor Minda Corp.
On 13 June 2023, after the market closed, Pricol disclosed in a regulatory filing that promoter group companies Pricol Engineering Industries and Pricol Logistics acquired 210,000 and 500,000 shares, respectively, from the open market on 12 June 2023. These purchases represent a 0.17% and 0.41% stake in Pricol. As of March 2023, the promoters held a 36.53% stake in the Coimbatore-based firm.
In a surprising move, Minda Corp, an auto-ancillary manufacturer, acquired a 15.7% stake in Pricol for approximately Rs 400 crore in February. This led Pricol's promoters, including chairman Vanitha Mohan and managing director Vikram Mohan, to clarify that they had no intention of reducing their stake.
In May, Minda Corp sought approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to increase its stake in Pricol to 24.5%. However, Pricol has filed a preliminary objection against the application.
Pricol is one of India's leading dashboard manufacturers. The company carries out its business and operations in driver information systems and sensors, pumps and allied products, telematics and wiping systems catering to leading automotive OEMs in two / three-wheeler, passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, farm equipment and offroad vehicles across India and in international markets.
Pricol reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 29.80 crore in Q4 FY23, which is higher by 126.87% as compared with a PAT of Rs 13.14 crore in Q4 FY22. Revenue from operations increased by 26.26% YoY to Rs 509.69 crore during the quarter.
|