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Stock Analysis & ValuationFirst-corporation Inc. (1430.T)

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¥1,061.00
Sector Valuation Confidence Level
Moderate
Valuation methodValue, ¥Upside, %
Artificial intelligence (AI)1299.4222
Intrinsic value (DCF)29208.492653
Graham-Dodd Method1043.75-2
Graham Formula8033.48657

Strategic Investment Analysis

Company Overview

First-corporation Inc. (1430.T) is a Tokyo-based general construction company specializing in residential construction, particularly condominiums and apartments. Founded in 2011, the company operates in Japan's competitive consumer cyclical sector, catering to the demand for urban housing solutions. With a market capitalization of approximately ¥11.3 billion, First-corporation Inc. focuses on delivering quality residential projects in a market characterized by high land prices and stringent building regulations. The company's financials reflect its niche positioning, with revenues of ¥28.5 billion and net income of ¥944.9 million in the latest fiscal year. Despite operating in a capital-intensive industry, First-corporation maintains a solid cash position of ¥4.1 billion, though its operating cash flow was negative at ¥1.57 billion, indicating potential liquidity challenges. The company's strategic focus on Japan's urban residential market positions it to benefit from long-term housing demand, though it faces stiff competition from larger construction firms.

Investment Summary

First-corporation Inc. presents a mixed investment profile. On the positive side, the company operates in Japan's stable residential construction sector, with a focus on urban condominiums and apartments—a segment with consistent demand. The company's net income of ¥944.9 million and EPS of ¥79.11 indicate profitability, while its dividend per share of ¥31 offers modest income potential. However, negative operating cash flow (-¥1.57 billion) raises concerns about short-term liquidity, despite a healthy cash position. The company's beta of -0.003 suggests low correlation with broader market movements, which could appeal to risk-averse investors. Given its small market cap and niche focus, First-corporation may appeal to investors seeking exposure to Japan's residential construction sector, but its competitive positioning against larger firms and cash flow challenges warrant caution.

Competitive Analysis

First-corporation Inc. operates in Japan's highly competitive residential construction sector, where it competes with both large conglomerates and regional players. The company's competitive advantage lies in its specialized focus on urban condominiums and apartments, allowing it to target specific market segments efficiently. However, its relatively small scale (¥28.5 billion revenue) limits its ability to compete on large-scale projects or benefit from economies of scale like larger rivals. The company's negative operating cash flow suggests potential inefficiencies in working capital management compared to more established competitors. Its ¥4.1 billion cash reserve provides some financial flexibility, but its ¥5.09 billion debt load indicates moderate leverage. In Japan's construction industry, where relationships with suppliers and land developers are critical, First-corporation's 13-year operating history may put it at a disadvantage against older firms with deeper industry ties. The company's ability to maintain profitability (¥944.9 million net income) in this environment demonstrates some operational effectiveness, but its long-term competitiveness will depend on securing prime urban projects and improving cash flow generation.

Major Competitors

  • Obayashi Corporation (1801.T): Obayashi is one of Japan's 'Big Five' construction firms, with significantly larger scale (¥1.8 trillion revenue) and diversified operations including infrastructure. Its strengths include strong government contracts and international presence, but its size may make it less agile in niche residential markets compared to First-corporation.
  • Kajima Corporation (1812.T): Another 'Big Five' firm, Kajima has strong capabilities in high-rise residential projects, directly competing with First-corporation's condo focus. Kajima's technical expertise and financial resources are superior, but its broader project portfolio may dilute focus on mid-market residential segments where First-corporation operates.
  • Toda Corporation (1860.T): Toda specializes in urban redevelopment and high-end condominiums, overlapping with First-corporation's market. Its stronger balance sheet and established brand give it an edge in premium projects, but First-corporation may compete more effectively in mid-priced developments.
  • NIPPO Corporation (1881.T): NIPPO focuses on civil engineering but has growing residential operations. Its infrastructure expertise provides diversification benefits that First-corporation lacks, though NIPPO's residential segment is less specialized.
  • Tokyu Construction Co., Ltd. (3289.T): A mid-sized competitor with strong regional presence in Greater Tokyo, Tokyu Construction's ties to Tokyu Group provide land access advantages. Its similar scale makes it a direct competitor, though First-corporation's independent structure may allow for more flexible project selection.
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