Our opinion on the current state of ENXGROUP(ENX)The enX Group (ENX) is a diversified industrial group in South Africa, offering products and services in petrochemicals, fleet management, logistics, and industrial sectors. The group includes Austro, which distributes woodworking equipment and tools, and New Way Power, which manufactures, installs, and maintains diesel generators. Its fleet division provides fleet management, logistics, and vehicle tracking, while ENX Petrochemicals markets oil lubricants, plastics polymers, rubber, and specialty chemicals across Southern Africa.
Since 2019, enX has been strategically divesting non-core assets to focus on growth opportunities and reduce debt. Key disposals include Eqstra, its fleet management company, sold to Bidvest for R3.1 billion, and its British fork-lift and container business sold for GBP31 million. The proceeds from these sales have supported debt reduction and funded special dividends, such as the 200c per share dividend following the sale of the EIE group in April 2022 and a 150c dividend in August 2022.
In its results for the year to 31st August 2024, enX reported a 3% drop in revenue, with headline earnings per share (HEPS) from continuing operations down by 11%. While volumes in toll blending for lubricants and polyethylene in chemicals increased, lower base oil and chemical prices impacted average selling prices.
With an average daily trading volume of nearly R180,000, enX remains relatively practical for private investors. The company’s focus on essential industries, along with selective acquisitions and divestments, positions it to benefit from economic improvements in South Africa and overseas markets.
