While major technology stocks like SEEK Limited (ASX: SEK) get plenty of news and broker coverage, many smaller tech companies fail to garner much attention. As a result, investors might miss out on discovering an exciting growth stock.
Here are two small tech companies which look interesting (in my opinion) but which investors may have missed during the August reporting season frenzy.
GBST Holdings Limited (ASX: GBT)
GBST is a market-leading software company focused on providing solutions to the financial services sector.
The company's full year results weren't particularly exciting with revenue declining by 5%, operating earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) sliding 18% and adjusted net profit after tax sinking 31% to $13.4 million.
Despite the lacklustre results – which management blamed on project deferrals and adverse foreign exchange movements – there are a number of reasons why this is a company worth analysing.
Firstly, the result was a tale of two halves which saw a near 50% improvement in second half earnings after a weak first six months. If GBST's second half momentum can be carried through the current financial year, then an improved full year result could reasonably be expected.
Secondly, there are numerous growth initiatives underway. GBST already has a commanding position in the domestic and UK markets but project opportunities in Asia and the US offer significant growth potential.
Third, with the share price falling 16.5% in the past year, against an 8% rise in the S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO), it's possible the bad news is all priced.
Speedcast International Ltd (ASX: SDA)
Speedcast is a satellite communications and network service provider with a focus on providing solutions to remotely located customers.
As the group's interim results show, Speedcast is enjoying strong momentum in its business.
For the six months ended June 30, revenue lifted 41% to US$101.5 million, EBITDA jumped 34% to US$17 million and underlying profit increased 21% to US$8.2 million.
In the Maritime division, growth was driven by a combination of factors including two significant contract wins which helped grow the number of VSAT vessels by over 100 year-on-year. The combination of contract wins and recent acquisitions are expected to underpin second half growth for this division.
The Energy division, which is the smallest division, held up remarkably well considering the headwinds faced by low oil prices. Recent contract wins and roll-outs are expected to positively impact the second half.
The Enterprise and Emerging Markets division experienced a very strong half with revenue jumping 46%. Management sees strong future growth opportunities for this division including via the Government sector.
At the group level, Speedcast's management has provided full year guidance for EBITDA of between US$41 million and US$43 million which suggests solid second half growth.
