Shin-Etsu Chemical Leading Its Peers For Good Reasons

Large chemical companies with mid-teens operating margins aren't very common, but Japan's Shin-Etsu (OTCPK:SHECY) has managed it for some time and that has helped the stock outperform both the Nikkei and the S&P 500 over the last five years. With leading positions in PVC, silicones, and multiple markets serving the semiconductor space, I believe Shin-Etsu is looking at a relatively favorable revenue and margin outlook for at least the next few years.

With both the Tokyo-traded shares and the ADRs up around 70% over the last year, a lot of the positives about this company are in the stock. That said, the shares don't look particularly expensive on a DCF basis and improving conditions in the wafer market could drive some near-term upside. I'd rather see a better entry price, but Shin-Etsu's all-around quality argues for a spot on a watch list, and I wouldn't be in a rush to sell if I owned the shares.

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Shin-Etsu Chemical Leading Its Peers For Good Reasons