Why this ASX infrastructure company could help protect your portfolio in a downturn

It may not be lighting up the market now, but essential network services business Service Stream Limited (ASX: SSM) could be one of the best defensive shares to own in a downturn.

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Shares in ASX essential network services business Service Stream Limited (ASX: SSM) look set to end the week down more than 6% despite the company's attempts to reassure the market that it hasn't been experiencing any overly negative financial impacts from COVID-19.

Service Stream designs, constructs, operates and maintains essential telecommunications and utilities infrastructure, including water and gas distribution networks. With large portions of the Australian population still more or less confined to their homes, people are relying on this infrastructure now more than ever.

In a business update released to the market on Thursday, Service Stream stated that demand for its services had remained strong throughout the pandemic. However, it did note that the costs of delivering those services had increased, and some "minor" projects had been delayed or paused.

Service Stream had originally forecast operational earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation expenses (EBITDA) for the second half of FY20 to be in line with the first half result of $58.1 million. Due to the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic, the company now expects full year operational EBITDA to be $108 million, which would imply a second half operational EBITDA in the range of $49.9 million, or a decline of a little over 7% versus the first half.

The market reacted negatively to the news, with the Service Stream share price dropping almost 6% on Thursday. However, while it's disappointing that the company is now forecasting a drop in EBITDA, Service Stream does point out that operational EBITDA of $108 million for the year would still be a record result for a growing company.

Should you invest?

Service Stream doesn't provide the exciting growth narratives of coronavirus market darlings like Kogan.com Ltd (AS:KGN), Appen Limited (ASX:APX) or NextDC Limited (ASX:NXT). But the fact that it is flying under the radar for many investors works in its favour.

Shares in many of those sexier tech companies are now trading higher than they were pre-coronavirus, which seems unsustainable as the country heads into a potential economic recession. For example, despite its soaring share price, Kogan relies on strong consumer sentiment, which may not exist once the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic are fully realised.

Service Stream, on the other hand, should have a much more reliable source of revenue. Even in periods of economic stress and uncertainty, people will continue to depend on the infrastructure that supports necessities like water, gas and telecommunications.

Service Stream could make a good defensive option for investors looking to safeguard their portfolio against a severe downturn. Plus, at its current price of around $2.00 it is still well short of the 52-week high price of $3.06 it reached back in August – meaning it could represent great value.

Motley Fool contributor Rhys Brock owns shares of Kogan.com ltd. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Kogan.com ltd. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of Appen Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Service Stream Limited. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Share Market News

A happy young couple lie on a wooden deck using a skateboard for a pillow.
Share Gainers

These were the best-performing ASX 200 shares in March

These shares made their shareholders smile in March thanks to some very big gains.

Read more »

Businessman using a digital tablet with a graphical chart, symbolising the stock market.
Opinions

2 ASX shares I have been buying in 2024!

I’m a believer in the long-term outlook of these stocks.

Read more »

Stock market chart in green with a rising arrow symbolising a rising share price.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a massive day for the ASX 200, with a new all-time high recorded.

Read more »

A man sits thoughtfully on the couch with a laptop on his lap.
Technology Shares

This ASX tech stock rocketed 60% in March! Can it keep on delivering?

After soaring in March, the ASX tech stock is now up 169% since this time last year.

Read more »

Broker Notes

Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy now

Here's why brokers are feeling bullish about these three shares this week.

Read more »

A young man clasps his hand to his head with his eyes closed and a pained expression on his face as he clasps a laptop computer in front of him, seemingly learning of bad news or a poor investment.
Share Fallers

Why Burgundy Diamond Mines, Clarity Pharmaceuticals, EML, and Zip are sinking today

These ASX shares are ending the week in the red. But why?

Read more »

A young women pumps her fists in excitement after seeing some good news on her laptop.
Share Gainers

Why Mesoblast, Newmont, Pilbara Minerals, and Platinum shares are jumping

These ASX shares are ending the week strongly. But why?

Read more »

a young boy dressed up in a business suit and tie has a cute grin and holds two fingers up.
Opinions

2 of my top ASX 200 shares to consider buying before April

I would happily exchange dollars for these two shares right now.

Read more »