Meritage Corporation (MTH)

Return on total capital

Dec 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020
Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) US$ in thousands 1,002,870 1,270,390 1,289,360 973,340 535,743
Long-term debt US$ in thousands
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 5,141,570 4,611,900 3,949,610 3,044,390 2,347,870
Return on total capital 19.51% 27.55% 32.65% 31.97% 22.82%

December 31, 2024 calculation

Return on total capital = EBIT ÷ (Long-term debt + Total stockholders’ equity)
= $1,002,870K ÷ ($—K + $5,141,570K)
= 19.51%

The return on total capital for Meritage Corporation has shown a generally positive trend over the years, starting at 22.82% on December 31, 2020, and increasing to 31.97% on December 31, 2021, further rising to 32.65% by December 31, 2022. However, there was a slight decrease to 27.55% by December 31, 2023, and a more significant decline to 19.51% by December 31, 2024. Despite the fluctuations in the later years, the company has managed to maintain a relatively high return on total capital, indicating efficient utilization of both debt and equity to generate profits. It would be advisable for stakeholders to monitor the trend closely to understand the factors contributing to these fluctuations and assess the company's capital allocation strategies.