Danaos Corporation (DAC): A Bull Case Theory

Core Thesis - Danaos Corporation (DAC) is viewed positively due to its strong financial performance and resilience, trading at a deeply discounted valuation despite improved fundamentals [1][5]. Financial Performance - DAC's share price increased from around $18 in 2020 to approximately $92, with earnings per share rising from $6.50 to about $26, showcasing a significant turnaround from a loss of $46 per share in 2016 [2]. - The company has a trailing P/E ratio of 4.00, indicating a low valuation compared to its earnings [1]. Balance Sheet Strength - Danaos has reduced total liabilities from $2.4 billion in 2016 to $644 million by the end of 2024, with long-term debt now at only $382 million [3]. - Equity has expanded from $558 million to $3.4 billion during the same period, transitioning the company from a highly leveraged position to a net cash position [3]. Cash Reserves and Shareholder Returns - Cash reserves increased from $70 million in 2017 to $453 million as of December 2024, providing financial flexibility for share buybacks and maintaining a dividend yield of approximately 3.7% [4]. - The company's disciplined capital management and cash-rich profile position it favorably to navigate macroeconomic challenges [4]. Market Sentiment - Despite strong profitability, DAC trades at a low price-to-earnings ratio of roughly 3.5 and only 0.49 times its book value, reflecting market skepticism [3]. - The stock has appreciated about 15.70% since a previous bullish thesis, indicating growing recognition of its value [5]. Hedge Fund Interest - DAC is not among the 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds, with 17 hedge fund portfolios holding DAC at the end of the second quarter, up from 16 in the previous quarter [6].