Introduction
Mastek, Persistent Systems, KPIT Technologies, and Mphasis are mid-sized Indian IT companies operating in different niches within the broader IT and digital transformation landscape. While all four cater to global enterprises, they differentiate themselves through their business models, clientele, and growth strategies. In this analysis, we’ll compare these companies based on their business segments, revenue streams, profitability, growth potential, risks, and investment appeal.
1. Business Model & Segments
Mastek
Mastek specializes in enterprise digital transformation, with a focus on government, healthcare, retail, and financial services. The company provides cloud migration, digital commerce, and data analytics solutions. A key differentiator is its strong presence in the UK’s public sector, particularly with the National Health Service (NHS) and other government agencies.
- Core focus: Cloud, ERP (Oracle), digital transformation
- Key clients: NHS, UK government, global financial institutions
- Geographical split: Strong UK presence (~50% revenue), followed by the US and India
Persistent Systems
Persistent Systems is a product engineering and digital services company with a strong focus on software, banking, and healthcare. The company partners with cloud providers (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and software vendors to help enterprises modernize their technology stacks. Persistent’s strength lies in R&D-driven product development and IT services for ISVs (Independent Software Vendors).
- Core focus: Digital transformation, cloud, AI-driven solutions
- Key clients: BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, Insurance), healthcare, software firms
- Geographical split: North America (~75% revenue), followed by Europe and India
KPIT Technologies
KPIT Technologies is a pure-play automotive software and engineering company, specializing in autonomous, electric, and connected vehicles. Unlike the others in this comparison, KPIT focuses entirely on the automobile industry, providing solutions in embedded systems, AI, and vehicle diagnostics.
- Core focus: Automotive software (ADAS, EV solutions, connected vehicles)
- Key clients: Global automakers (BMW, Stellantis, Renault, Toyota)
- Geographical split: Europe (~55% revenue), followed by the US and India
Mphasis
Mphasis focuses on BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance), cloud, AI, and digital transformation. The company is known for its deep partnerships with large financial institutions and enterprises. A major advantage for Mphasis is its strong relationship with Blackstone (its former majority owner), which brings in valuable deal flows.
- Core focus: BFSI, AI-powered digital transformation, cloud solutions
- Key clients: Large banks, insurance firms, and Fortune 500 enterprises
- Geographical split: North America (~80% revenue), followed by Europe and India
2. Financial Performance & Market Position
Company |
Market Cap (₹ Cr.) |
Revenue (₹ Cr.) |
Net Profit (₹ Cr.) |
5-Year CAGR (Revenue) |
P/E Ratio |
ROE (%) |
Mastek |
~7,500 |
~3,000 |
~450 |
~12% |
~25x |
~18% |
Persistent |
~48,000 |
~10,500 |
~1,500 |
~23% |
~40x |
~20% |
KPIT |
~34,000 |
~4,300 |
~650 |
~30% |
~70x |
~24% |
Mphasis |
~38,000 |
~14,000 |
~1,750 |
~12% |
~28x |
~18% |
- Revenue Growth: KPIT has the highest CAGR (30%), driven by the surge in automotive software demand, followed by Persistent’s strong 23% growth.
- Profitability: Mphasis has the highest absolute net profit, but Persistent and KPIT lead in return on equity (ROE).
- Valuation: KPIT trades at a premium (P/E ~70x) due to strong industry tailwinds, while Persistent has a moderate valuation (P/E ~40x).
3. Strengths & Competitive Advantages
Mastek
✅ Strong UK government contracts, providing revenue stability
✅ Expertise in Oracle cloud & ERP transformation
✅ Expanding presence in North America, growing through acquisitions
Persistent Systems
✅ Strong relationships with cloud & SaaS vendors (AWS, Microsoft, Google)
✅ High-growth product engineering & digital transformation focus
✅ Diversified revenue streams across BFSI, healthcare, and software sectors
KPIT Technologies
✅ Niche automotive software specialization, benefiting from EV and autonomous vehicle growth
✅ Long-term partnerships with global automakers
✅ High R&D investment, keeping it ahead in mobility solutions
Mphasis
✅ Strong BFSI focus, securing long-term banking and insurance contracts
✅ Strong Blackstone legacy, giving access to large financial deals
✅ AI and cloud-driven digital transformation solutions
4. Risks & Challenges
Company |
Key Risks |
Mastek |
High UK dependency; competition in ERP/cloud |
Persistent |
High dependence on ISVs; margin pressure from cloud deals |
KPIT |
Dependence on auto industry; cyclical demand risk |
Mphasis |
BFSI sector slowdown; exposure to US banking crises |
5. Future Growth Potential
- Mastek: Expanding aggressively in North America and cloud services; Oracle partnerships could drive growth.
- Persistent: Riding AI and cloud transformation, strong BFSI and software industry tailwinds.
- KPIT: A leader in automotive software, benefiting from EV and ADAS adoption.
- Mphasis: BFSI growth will depend on US banking stability, but cloud & AI offer opportunities.
Conclusion: Which Stock Stands Out?
- KPIT Technologies is the fastest-growing company due to EV and autonomous vehicle trends, but its high P/E (70x) makes it pricey.
- Persistent Systems offers consistent revenue growth (23% CAGR) and a strong digital transformation focus, making it a well-balanced pick.
- Mphasis is a safer bet in the BFSI space, but its growth is slower compared to others.
- Mastek has a strong UK government base, but limited global scale vs. Persistent or Mphasis.
Final Verdict:
- For high growth with valuation risk → KPIT
- For strong digital transformation + balanced growth → Persistent
- For BFSI stability → Mphasis
- For Oracle/cloud ERP focus → Mastek