Milkyway Chemical Supply Chain Service Co.,Ltd's (SHSE:603713) price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 15.2x might make it look like a strong buy right now compared to the market in China, where around half of the companies have P/E ratios above 33x and even P/E's above 64x are quite common. However, the P/E might be quite low for a reason and it requires further investigation to determine if it's justified.

There hasn't been much to differentiate Milkyway Chemical Supply Chain ServiceLtd's and the market's retreating earnings lately. It might be that many expect the company's earnings performance to degrade further, which has repressed the P/E. You'd much rather the company wasn't bleeding earnings if you still believe in the business. At the very least, you'd be hoping that earnings don't fall off a cliff if your plan is to pick up some stock while it's out of favour.

Does Growth Match The Low P/E?

In order to justify its P/E ratio, Milkyway Chemical Supply Chain ServiceLtd would need to produce anemic growth that's substantially trailing the market.

Taking a look back first, the company's earnings per share growth last year wasn't something to get excited about as it posted a disappointing decline of 2.4%. Still, the latest three year period has seen an excellent 36% overall rise in EPS, in spite of its unsatisfying short-term performance. Accordingly, while they would have preferred to keep the run going, shareholders would probably welcome the medium-term rates of earnings growth.

Looking ahead now, EPS is anticipated to climb by 30% during the coming year according to the six analysts following the company. Meanwhile, the rest of the market is forecast to expand by 38%, which is noticeably more attractive.

In light of this, it's understandable that Milkyway Chemical Supply Chain ServiceLtd's P/E sits below the majority of other companies. Apparently many shareholders weren't comfortable holding on while the company is potentially eyeing a less prosperous future.

The Final Word

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 Milkyway Chemical Supply Chain ServiceLtd maintains its low P/E on the weakness of its forecast growth being lower than the wider market, as expected. Right now shareholders are accepting the low P/E as they concede future earnings probably won't provide any pleasant surprises. Unless these conditions improve, they will continue to form a barrier for the share price around these levels.

Don't forget that there may be other risks. For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for Milkyway Chemical Supply Chain ServiceLtd (1 can't be ignored) you should be aware of.

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.