| Valuation method | Value, ¥ | Upside, % |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | 296.51 | -27 |
| Intrinsic value (DCF) | 185.20 | -54 |
| Graham-Dodd Method | n/a | |
| Graham Formula | 99.62 | -75 |
Asterisk Inc. is a Japanese technology company specializing in sensors, barcode readers, RFID reader-writers, and related solutions. Headquartered in Osaka, the company provides a range of products including infrared sensors, wireless communication devices, image recognition systems, and mobile POS (Point of Sale) solutions. Asterisk serves industries such as logistics, retail, and inspection systems, leveraging its expertise in automation and data capture technologies. Founded in 2006, the company operates in the competitive communication equipment sector, focusing on innovation and efficiency-enhancing tools. Despite its niche focus, Asterisk faces challenges in profitability, as reflected in recent financial performance. The company's product portfolio positions it as a key player in Japan's industrial automation and IoT (Internet of Things) ecosystem, though global competition and technological advancements present ongoing hurdles.
Asterisk Inc. presents a high-risk investment opportunity due to its negative net income and operating cash flow in the latest fiscal year. The company's beta of 1.307 indicates higher volatility compared to the broader market, which may deter risk-averse investors. However, its focus on RFID, barcode, and sensor technologies aligns with growing demand for automation and IoT solutions in logistics and retail. The lack of dividends and negative EPS (-54.81 JPY) suggest limited near-term returns, but potential upside exists if the company can improve operational efficiency and capitalize on Japan's industrial digitization trends. Investors should monitor cash reserves (467.29M JPY) against total debt (756.67M JPY) for liquidity risks.
Asterisk Inc. competes in the specialized niche of sensor and RFID-based automation solutions, primarily serving the Japanese market. Its competitive advantage lies in its integrated product offerings, combining hardware (barcode/RFID readers) with software (logistics and POS systems). However, the company faces intense competition from larger global players with stronger R&D budgets and broader distribution networks. Asterisk's smaller scale limits its ability to compete on price, forcing it to differentiate through customization and local service support. The negative profitability suggests inefficiencies in scaling operations or pricing pressures. The company's focus on mobile POS and logistics systems aligns with Japan's push for retail and supply chain automation, but it must innovate continuously to fend off rivals offering cloud-based and AI-enhanced solutions. Its domestic presence provides an edge in serving Japanese clients with tailored solutions, though international competitors are gaining traction in the market.