The S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) delivered investors with a return of over 15% in 2013 – its best yearly return since 2009 – which, if maintained, would mean investors doubling their money in less than five years.
While doubling your investment in under five years would be an incredible achievement, a number of companies actually managed to achieve that task over the course of just 12 months. Here are 10 companies that more than doubled in value over 2013 (not including dividends):
- Nearmap (ASX: NEA): This company provides overhead photos of most of Australia's cities and towns. It saw its shares climb a massive 793.4%, taking its market capitalisation to $182 million.
- JB Hi-Fi (ASX: JBH): The retailer defied volatile consumer confidence and soared 107.7%, as did Kathmandu (ASX: KMD) which rose 111.9%.
- Xero (ASX: XRO): The New Zealand small business accounting company saw its price climb an incredible 418.8%.
- Slater & Gordon (ASX: SGH): Having delivered record results last August, including a 67.6% increase in net profit, shares rose an impressive 113.2% for the 12 months.
- Select Harvests (ASX: SHV): The almond grower harvested a 304.4% gain of its own for 2013, climbing from $1.36 per share to $5.50.
- Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory Company (ASX: WCB): Shares have benefitted greatly from the recent bidding war for its acquisition. They increased by 162.1% in 2013. Bega Cheese (ASX: BGA), which was involved in that bidding war, also saw its shares rise 139.6% with the major gains coming since August.
- REA Group (ASX: REA): The digital advertising business gained 109.7%.
- TPG Telecom (ASX: TPM): 2012 was a fantastic year for the telecommunications company and 2013 followed strongly, gaining another 103.8%.
Foolish takeaway
There is no way of knowing how the stock market will perform in 2014, or if results will be as strong as 2013. However, by investing in strong companies trading at attractive prices, you will recognise good returns over time.
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