The stock was sluggish on the back of GreenTree Hospitality Group Ltd.'s (NYSE:GHG) recent earnings report. We have done some analysis, and found some encouraging factors that we believe the shareholders should consider.

View our latest analysis for GreenTree Hospitality Group

How Do Unusual Items Influence Profit?

To properly understand GreenTree Hospitality Group's profit results, we need to consider the CN¥129m expense attributed to unusual items. It's never great to see unusual items costing the company profits, but on the upside, things might improve sooner rather than later. When we analysed the vast majority of listed companies worldwide, we found that significant unusual items are often not repeated. And, after all, that's exactly what the accounting terminology implies. If GreenTree Hospitality Group doesn't see those unusual expenses repeat, then all else being equal we'd expect its profit to increase over the coming year.

That might leave you wondering what analysts are forecasting in terms of future profitability. Luckily, you can click here to see an interactive graph depicting future profitability, based on their estimates.

Our Take On GreenTree Hospitality Group's Profit Performance

Unusual items (expenses) detracted from GreenTree Hospitality Group's earnings over the last year, but we might see an improvement next year. Based on this observation, we consider it likely that GreenTree Hospitality Group's statutory profit actually understates its earnings potential! And it's also positive that the company showed enough improvement to book a profit this year, after losing money last year. Of course, we've only just scratched the surface when it comes to analysing its earnings; one could also consider margins, forecast growth, and return on investment, among other factors. In light of this, if you'd like to do more analysis on the company, it's vital to be informed of the risks involved. For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for GreenTree Hospitality Group (1 is a bit unpleasant) you should be familiar with.

This note has only looked at a single factor that sheds light on the nature of GreenTree Hospitality Group's profit. But there is always more to discover if you are capable of focussing your mind on minutiae. For example, many people consider a high return on equity as an indication of favorable business economics, while others like to 'follow the money' and search out stocks that insiders are buying. While it might take a little research on your behalf, you may find this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks that insiders are buying to be useful.

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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.