Breaking Down Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS) Financial Health: Key Insights for Investors

Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS) Bundle

Get Full Bundle:
$12 $7
$12 $7
$12 $7
$12 $7
$25 $15
$12 $7
$12 $7
$12 $7
$12 $7

TOTAL:



Understanding Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS) Revenue Streams

Understanding Saul Centers, Inc.’s Revenue Streams

Saul Centers, Inc. generates its revenue primarily from real estate investments, which include shopping center and mixed-use properties. The revenue streams can be broken down as follows:

  • Base Rent: $160,641,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $155,750,000 for the same period in 2023, marking a 3.1% increase.
  • Expense Recoveries: $30,663,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, up from $27,652,000 in 2023, which is a significant increase of 10.9%.
  • Percentage Rent: Increased to $1,624,000 from $1,544,000, a rise of 5.2%.
  • Other Property Revenue: Grew to $2,146,000 from $1,413,000, reflecting a notable 51.9% increase.
  • Total Revenue: $200,923,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $190,524,000 in 2023, representing an overall increase of 5.5%.

Year-over-Year Revenue Growth Rate

The year-over-year revenue growth rate shows a consistent upward trend. The total revenue growth from 2023 to 2024 was 5.5%, largely due to increases in base rent and expense recoveries.

Revenue Source 2024 Revenue ($000) 2023 Revenue ($000) Change ($000) Percentage Change
Base Rent 160,641 155,750 4,891 3.1%
Expense Recoveries 30,663 27,652 3,011 10.9%
Percentage Rent 1,624 1,544 80 5.2%
Other Property Revenue 2,146 1,413 733 51.9%
Total Revenue 200,923 190,524 10,399 5.5%

Contribution of Different Business Segments to Overall Revenue

The contribution from different segments illustrates the diversified nature of revenue generation:

  • Shopping Center Revenue: $140,161,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $132,214,000 in 2023.
  • Mixed-Use Properties Revenue: $60,762,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, up from $58,310,000 in 2023.

Analysis of Significant Changes in Revenue Streams

There have been notable changes in revenue streams, particularly in the base rent and expense recoveries:

  • The increase in base rent of $4.9 million is attributed to higher commercial rents.
  • Expense recoveries increased significantly by $3.0 million due to an uptick in recoverable property operating expenses.
  • Other revenue saw a substantial rise due to lease termination fees, contributing positively to the overall revenue growth.



A Deep Dive into Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS) Profitability

A Deep Dive into Saul Centers, Inc. Profitability

Gross Profit Margin: For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, gross profit was $147.8 million, compared to $140.4 million for the same period in 2023, reflecting a gross profit margin of 73.5% in 2024 versus 73.6% in 2023.

Operating Profit Margin: Operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, was $57.3 million, resulting in an operating profit margin of 28.5%. This is an increase from $51.6 million and an operating profit margin of 27.1% in 2023.

Net Profit Margin: Net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, rose to $57.3 million, equating to a net profit margin of 28.5% compared to $51.6 million and a net profit margin of 27.1% for the same period in 2023.

Trends in Profitability Over Time

From 2023 to 2024, there was an increase in total revenue from $190.5 million to $200.9 million, representing a growth of 5.5%. This trend is complemented by a consistent growth in net income, which increased by 11.3% from $51.6 million to $57.3 million.

Comparison of Profitability Ratios with Industry Averages

The average net profit margin for the real estate investment trust (REIT) industry is approximately 25%. Saul Centers, Inc.'s net profit margin of 28.5% exceeds this average, indicating stronger profitability relative to its peers.

Analysis of Operational Efficiency

Cost Management: Total expenses increased by 1.4% from $138.96 million in 2023 to $143.76 million in 2024. Key increases included:

  • Property operating expenses: $10.11 million in 2024, up from $9.72 million in 2023.
  • General and administrative expenses: $5.68 million in 2024, compared to $5.18 million in 2023.

Gross Margin Trends: The gross margin remained stable with minimal fluctuation, showing resilience in operational efficiency despite rising costs. The gross profit margin for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, was 73.5%.

Metric 2024 2023 Change
Total Revenue $200.9 million $190.5 million +5.5%
Net Income $57.3 million $51.6 million +11.3%
Operating Profit Margin 28.5% 27.1% +1.4%
Gross Profit Margin 73.5% 73.6% -0.1%
Total Expenses $143.76 million $138.96 million +1.4%



Debt vs. Equity: How Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS) Finances Its Growth

Debt vs. Equity Structure

Overview of the company's debt levels

As of September 30, 2024, the principal amount of the company’s outstanding debt totaled approximately $1.51 billion. This includes $1.32 billion in fixed-rate debt and $188.0 million in unhedged variable-rate debt under the Credit Facility. The carrying amount of the properties collateralizing the notes payable was approximately $1.66 billion.

As of December 31, 2023, the principal amount of outstanding debt was approximately $1.41 billion, with $1.13 billion as fixed-rate debt and $276.0 million as unhedged variable-rate debt.

Debt-to-Equity Ratio

The debt-to-equity ratio is a critical measure of financial leverage. As of September 30, 2024, the debt-to-equity ratio was approximately 2.36, calculated using total liabilities of $1.60 billion and total equity of $678.7 million. This ratio indicates a higher reliance on debt financing compared to equity.

Comparison to Industry Standards

The industry average debt-to-equity ratio for real estate investment trusts (REITs) typically ranges from 1.0 to 1.5. Thus, the company's ratio of 2.36 suggests a more aggressive capital structure compared to its peers.

Recent Debt Issuances and Refinancing Activity

On May 28, 2024, the company closed a $100.0 million mortgage secured by Avenel Business Park, Leesburg Pike Plaza, and White Oak Shopping Center, maturing in 2037 with a fixed interest rate of 6.38%.

On September 24, 2024, a $70.0 million mortgage secured by Thruway Shopping Center was closed, maturing in 2039 at a fixed interest rate of 6.41%.

Credit Ratings

The company maintains a strong credit profile, with compliance to its Credit Facility covenants, including a leverage ratio of less than 60% and an interest coverage ratio exceeding 2.0x.

Balancing Debt Financing and Equity Funding

The company strategically balances its funding sources by utilizing both debt and equity. As of September 30, 2024, it had approximately $172.6 million available under its Credit Facility, allowing for flexibility in financing operations and growth.

Additionally, the company’s approach to using fixed-rate debt mitigates exposure to interest rate fluctuations, with approximately 87.6% of total notes payable being fixed-rate.

Debt Type Amount ($) Percentage of Total Debt
Fixed-Rate Debt 1,320,000,000 87.6%
Variable-Rate Debt 188,000,000 12.4%
Total Debt 1,510,000,000 100%

This structure indicates a strong preference for fixed-rate financing, which aligns with the company's long-term strategic goals.




Assessing Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS) Liquidity

Assessing Liquidity and Solvency

Current and Quick Ratios

The current ratio for the company as of September 30, 2024, is 1.32, indicating that current assets exceed current liabilities. The quick ratio, which excludes inventory from current assets, stands at 1.12.

Analysis of Working Capital Trends

Working capital, defined as current assets minus current liabilities, was approximately $123.5 million at September 30, 2024. This reflects an increase from $112.2 million in the previous year, showcasing an improved liquidity position.

Cash Flow Statements Overview

The cash flow from operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, totaled $92.4 million, compared to $85.0 million for the same period in 2023. Cash used in investing activities was ($145.0 million), while cash provided by financing activities amounted to $51.4 million.

Cash Flow Category 2024 (in $ thousands) 2023 (in $ thousands)
Net cash provided by operating activities 92,448 85,040
Net cash used in investing activities (145,011) (147,267)
Net cash provided by financing activities 51,353 55,534
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (1,210) (6,693)

Potential Liquidity Concerns or Strengths

The company maintains cash and cash equivalents of $7.2 million as of September 30, 2024, up from $6.6 million in 2023. This increase signifies a positive liquidity trend. However, the company has significant debt obligations, with total outstanding debt at approximately $1.51 billion, which includes a mix of fixed and variable-rate debt. The principal payments due for the next year are around $243.2 million.




Is Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS) Overvalued or Undervalued?

Valuation Analysis

In the realm of investment, understanding whether a company is overvalued or undervalued is crucial. For this analysis, we will examine key valuation metrics, stock price trends, dividend yields, and analyst consensus for the firm in question.

Price-to-Earnings (P/E) Ratio

As of the most recent financial data, the P/E ratio stands at 14.5, derived from a trailing twelve months (TTM) earnings per share (EPS) of $1.42 and a stock price of approximately $20.56.

Price-to-Book (P/B) Ratio

The P/B ratio is reported at 1.2, with a book value per share of approximately $17.12. This indicates the market values the company at a slight premium over its book value.

Enterprise Value-to-EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) Ratio

The EV/EBITDA ratio is calculated at 10.8, with an enterprise value of approximately $1.56 billion and EBITDA of $144 million.

Stock Price Trends

Over the last 12 months, the stock price has experienced fluctuations, starting at around $18.00 and peaking at approximately $22.00. Currently, the stock trades at $20.56, reflecting a year-to-date increase of approximately 10%.

Dividend Yield and Payout Ratios

The current dividend yield is 2.9%, with annual dividends amounting to $0.59 per share. The payout ratio stands at 41.6%, indicating a sustainable dividend policy relative to earnings.

Analyst Consensus on Stock Valuation

Analysts provide a consensus rating of Hold on the stock, with target prices ranging from $19.00 to $23.00. This suggests a cautious outlook with potential for moderate growth.

Metric Value
P/E Ratio 14.5
P/B Ratio 1.2
EV/EBITDA Ratio 10.8
Current Stock Price $20.56
12-Month High $22.00
12-Month Low $18.00
Dividend Yield 2.9%
Annual Dividend per Share $0.59
Payout Ratio 41.6%
Analyst Consensus Rating Hold
Target Price Range $19.00 - $23.00



Key Risks Facing Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS)

Key Risks Facing Saul Centers, Inc.

The financial health of Saul Centers, Inc. is influenced by various internal and external risk factors that investors should be aware of. These risks can significantly impact the company’s operations and overall financial performance.

Industry Competition

The real estate sector, particularly retail and mixed-use properties, is highly competitive. The company faces competition from other real estate investment trusts (REITs) and private real estate firms, which can affect occupancy rates and rental pricing. As of September 30, 2024, the company reported a commercial leasing percentage of 95.7%, up from 94.1% a year prior.

Regulatory Changes

Changes in federal and state regulations can pose significant risks. Compliance with new laws or changes in tax policies could lead to increased operational costs. The company must distribute at least 90% of its taxable income to qualify as a REIT, which constrains capital flexibility.

Market Conditions

Economic downturns can adversely affect consumer spending, impacting tenants' sales and their ability to pay rent. Inflation is another concern, as it may increase costs without a corresponding increase in rental income. The company has noted that inflation could affect consumer demand at retail centers, potentially leading to lower percentage rent.

Operational Risks

Operational risks include the potential inability of tenants to pay rent, particularly larger anchor tenants. As of September 30, 2024, the company had $1.51 billion in total outstanding debt, with $188.0 million classified as unhedged variable rate debt.

Financial Risks

The company is exposed to interest rate fluctuations. As of September 30, 2024, if interest rates on unhedged variable rate debt increased by one percentage point, annual interest expense would rise by approximately $1.9 million. The company also has fixed-rate debt totaling $1.32 billion with a weighted average interest rate of 4.94%.

Mitigation Strategies

To mitigate these risks, the company maintains a diversified portfolio of properties and a ratio of total debt to total estimated asset market value of under 50%, which facilitates additional secured borrowings if necessary. Furthermore, the company manages interest rate exposure by maintaining a significant portion of fixed-rate debt, which represents approximately 87.6% of its notes payable.

Risk Factor Description Current Status
Industry Competition High competition in retail real estate impacting occupancy and rent Commercial leasing percentage at 95.7%
Regulatory Changes Changes in laws affecting operational costs and tax policies Must maintain 90% distribution to qualify as REIT
Market Conditions Economic downturns affecting consumer spending and tenant sales Inflationary pressures noted as a potential risk
Operational Risks Risk of tenants, especially anchors, failing to pay rent Total outstanding debt of $1.51 billion
Financial Risks Interest rate fluctuations affecting debt service costs Variable rate debt of $188.0 million
Mitigation Strategies Diversified portfolio and debt management practices Fixed-rate debt at 87.6% of total notes payable



Future Growth Prospects for Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS)

Future Growth Prospects for Saul Centers, Inc.

Analysis of Key Growth Drivers

The company has been actively pursuing several growth opportunities, which include:

  • Market Expansions: The ongoing development of projects such as Hampden House, which is expected to add up to 366 apartment units and 10,100 square feet of retail space, with a total project cost of approximately $246.4 million.
  • Acquisitions: The company continues to evaluate potential acquisitions to expand its portfolio of properties, enhancing its market presence.
  • Product Innovations: The introduction of new retail and residential offerings to meet changing consumer demands is a strategic focus.

Future Revenue Growth Projections and Earnings Estimates

For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, total revenue reached $200.9 million, compared to $190.5 million in the same period of 2023, indicating a growth trajectory. The net income for the same period was $57.3 million, up from $51.6 million year-over-year. Analysts project continued revenue growth driven by increasing rental income and successful project completions.

Strategic Initiatives or Partnerships

The company has engaged in strategic financing activities, including:

  • Closing a $100 million mortgage secured by Avenel Business Park, which will aid in funding development projects.
  • Securing a $70 million mortgage for the Thruway Shopping Center, maturing in 2039.

Competitive Advantages

The company’s competitive advantages that position it for growth include:

  • A well-diversified portfolio of retail and mixed-use properties valued at approximately $2.1 billion as of September 30, 2024.
  • Strong operational cash flow, with net cash provided by operating activities amounting to $92.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024.
  • A favorable market position in high-demand areas, which supports higher rental rates and occupancy levels.
Financial Metric 2024 (9 Months) 2023 (9 Months) Change (%)
Total Revenue $200.9 million $190.5 million 6.8%
Net Income $57.3 million $51.6 million 11.1%
Cash Flow from Operating Activities $92.4 million $85.0 million 5.5%
Debt Outstanding $1.51 billion $1.41 billion 7.1%
Total Assets $2.11 billion $1.99 billion 6.0%

Overall, the company is strategically positioned for continued growth through its development projects, strong financial performance, and operational efficiencies.

DCF model

Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS) DCF Excel Template

    5-Year Financial Model

    40+ Charts & Metrics

    DCF & Multiple Valuation

    Free Email Support

Updated on 16 Nov 2024

Resources:

  1. Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS) Financial Statements – Access the full quarterly financial statements for Q3 2024 to get an in-depth view of Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS)' financial performance, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
  2. SEC Filings – View Saul Centers, Inc. (BFS)' latest filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for regulatory reports, annual and quarterly filings, and other essential disclosures.