The Anshan Hifichem Co., Ltd. (SZSE:300758) share price has done very well over the last month, posting an excellent gain of 27%. The last 30 days bring the annual gain to a very sharp 34%.
After such a large jump in price, you could be forgiven for thinking Anshan Hifichem is a stock not worth researching with a price-to-sales ratios (or "P/S") of 3.8x, considering almost half the companies in China's Chemicals industry have P/S ratios below 2x. Nonetheless, we'd need to dig a little deeper to determine if there is a rational basis for the elevated P/S.
How Has Anshan Hifichem Performed Recently?
With revenue growth that's superior to most other companies of late, Anshan Hifichem has been doing relatively well. It seems the market expects this form will continue into the future, hence the elevated P/S ratio. However, if this isn't the case, investors might get caught out paying too much for the stock.
If you'd like to see what analysts are forecasting going forward, you should check out our free report on Anshan Hifichem.
What Are Revenue Growth Metrics Telling Us About The High P/S?
In order to justify its P/S ratio, Anshan Hifichem would need to produce impressive growth in excess of the industry.
If we review the last year of revenue growth, the company posted a terrific increase of 21%. Revenue has also lifted 16% in aggregate from three years ago, mostly thanks to the last 12 months of growth. Therefore, it's fair to say the revenue growth recently has been respectable for the company.
Turning to the outlook, the next year should generate growth of 37% as estimated by the lone analyst watching the company. With the industry only predicted to deliver 23%, the company is positioned for a stronger revenue result.
With this in mind, it's not hard to understand why Anshan Hifichem's P/S is high relative to its industry peers. Apparently shareholders aren't keen to offload something that is potentially eyeing a more prosperous future.
The Bottom Line On Anshan Hifichem's P/S
Anshan Hifichem shares have taken a big step in a northerly direction, but its P/S is elevated as a result. Using the price-to-sales ratio alone to determine if you should sell your stock isn't sensible, however it can be a practical guide to the company's future prospects.
Our look into Anshan Hifichem shows that its P/S ratio remains high on the merit of its strong future revenues. Right now shareholders are comfortable with the P/S as they are quite confident future revenues aren't under threat. Unless these conditions change, they will continue to provide strong support to the share price.
You always need to take note of risks, for example - Anshan Hifichem has 2 warning signs we think you should be aware of.
If companies with solid past earnings growth is up your alley, you may wish to see this free collection of other companies with strong earnings growth and low P/E ratios.
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