Using some modifications on Magic Formula of Joel Greenblatt, my thoughts on investment are based on the below 5 yardsticks:
1. Return on equity: at least the return is higher than the prevailing market bank interest rate. 2. Cash flows: company may be making profits but I would set an expectation that at least the cash flows from operating activities should be positive. Alternatively I would be happy that the company has extra monies to distribute dividend or invest and expand its business strategy. 3. Growth: keep an eye on its quality growth where the it's earnings are increasing and compliment the ROE as in point 1. 4. PE ratio: setting price not more than 20 times earnings; a good business does not necessarily measured by a super high PE ratio 5. Dividend yield: as long it is comparable to FD interest rate but have to take note to avoid dividend trap companies