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Motley Fool Interview With Karooooo CEO Zak Calisto
The Motley Foolยท 2025-08-22 21:33
Company Overview - Karooooo, founded by Zak Calisto, operates in the connected vehicle industry, providing a software platform for fleet management, logistics, and safety [4][5]. - The company started with a focus on vehicle tracking and has evolved into a comprehensive telematics solution [7]. Business Model and Revenue - Approximately 50% of Karooooo's business in South Africa is commercial, while the other 50% is consumer-based [7]. - South Africa accounts for 70% of the company's subscription revenue, with the remaining 30% generated from international markets [7]. Financial Performance - Karooooo has a strong financial profile, with a return on unlevered net tangible assets (RONTA) of about 35%, exceeding Warren Buffett's preferred threshold of 25% [9]. - The company aims for a "rule of 60," combining growth and EBITDA margins, indicating a healthy and profitable business model [10][11]. Leadership and Management Style - Zak Calisto emphasizes the importance of building strong teams and maintaining a culture that supports sustainable growth [12]. - The leadership style focuses on high-level vision while ensuring that critical details affecting business health are monitored [12]. Technological Integration - The company utilizes AI for predictive analysis and risk mitigation, particularly in banking and fraud prevention [14]. - Karooooo is adapting to advancements in autonomous driving, recognizing the need for management systems even as driver roles evolve [16]. Market Position and Growth Potential - The company sees significant growth opportunities in both existing and new markets, with a potential for rapid expansion if execution aligns with market demand [13]. - Karooooo's approach to capital allocation is disciplined, with a focus on sustainable growth rather than aggressive expansion without sufficient cash flow [13].