It's not a stretch to say that Apple Flavor & Fragrance Group Co.,Ltd.'s (SHSE:603020) price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 28x right now seems quite "middle-of-the-road" compared to the market in China, where the median P/E ratio is around 28x. However, investors might be overlooking a clear opportunity or potential setback if there is no rational basis for the P/E.

As an illustration, earnings have deteriorated at Apple Flavor & Fragrance GroupLtd over the last year, which is not ideal at all. It might be that many expect the company to put the disappointing earnings performance behind them over the coming period, which has kept the P/E from falling. If you like the company, you'd at least be hoping this is the case so that you could potentially pick up some stock while it's not quite in favour.

Is There Some Growth For Apple Flavor & Fragrance GroupLtd?

The only time you'd be comfortable seeing a P/E like Apple Flavor & Fragrance GroupLtd's is when the company's growth is tracking the market closely.

Retrospectively, the last year delivered a frustrating 44% decrease to the company's bottom line. The last three years don't look nice either as the company has shrunk EPS by 56% in aggregate. So unfortunately, we have to acknowledge that the company has not done a great job of growing earnings over that time.

Weighing that medium-term earnings trajectory against the broader market's one-year forecast for expansion of 41% shows it's an unpleasant look.

In light of this, it's somewhat alarming that Apple Flavor & Fragrance GroupLtd's P/E sits in line with the majority of other companies. Apparently many investors in the company are way less bearish than recent times would indicate and aren't willing to let go of their stock right now. Only the boldest would assume these prices are sustainable as a continuation of recent earnings trends is likely to weigh on the share price eventually.

What We Can Learn From Apple Flavor & Fragrance GroupLtd's P/E?

We'd say the price-to-earnings ratio's power isn't primarily as a valuation instrument but rather to gauge current investor sentiment and future expectations.

We've established that Apple Flavor & Fragrance GroupLtd currently trades on a higher than expected P/E since its recent earnings have been in decline over the medium-term. Right now we are uncomfortable with the P/E as this earnings performance is unlikely to support a more positive sentiment for long. If recent medium-term earnings trends continue, it will place shareholders' investments at risk and potential investors in danger of paying an unnecessary premium.

You need to take note of risks, for example - Apple Flavor & Fragrance GroupLtd has 3 warning signs (and 1 which is concerning) we think you should know about.

It's important to make sure you look for a great company, not just the first idea you come across. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with strong recent earnings growth (and a low P/E).

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.