Old Dominion Freight Line Inc (ODFL)

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 1,544,000 1,640,670 1,840,630 1,391,600 906,882
Long-term debt US$ in thousands 56,500 75,400 92,600 104,500 105,400
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 4,244,590 4,257,810 3,652,920 3,679,810 3,326,290
Return on total capital 35.90% 37.86% 49.14% 36.77% 26.43%

December 31, 2024 calculation

Return on total capital = EBIT ÷ (Long-term debt + Total stockholders’ equity)
= $1,544,000K ÷ ($56,500K + $4,244,590K)
= 35.90%

Old Dominion Freight Line Inc's return on total capital has shown a positive trend over the past five years. The ratio increased from 26.43% in December 2020 to 36.77% in December 2021, indicating improved efficiency in generating returns from the total capital employed in the business. Subsequently, there was a significant spike to 49.14% by December 2022, reflecting strong performance in utilizing the company's capital effectively.

Although there was a slight decrease in return on total capital to 37.86% by December 2023, the ratio remained at a relatively high level, signifying the company's ability to generate profits relative to the total capital invested. In the most recent year, December 2024, Old Dominion Freight Line Inc maintained a solid return on total capital of 35.90%.

Overall, the company's consistent track record of achieving returns above 30% indicates efficient capital allocation and operational management, which is favorable for shareholders and indicates a robust financial performance.