CSG Systems International, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:CSGS) strong earnings report was rewarded with a positive stock price move. We have done some analysis, and we found several positive factors beyond the profit numbers.

How Do Unusual Items Influence Profit?

Importantly, our data indicates that CSG Systems International's profit was reduced by US$16m, due to unusual items, over the last year. While deductions due to unusual items are disappointing in the first instance, there is a silver lining. We looked at thousands of listed companies and found that unusual items are very often one-off in nature. And that's hardly a surprise given these line items are considered unusual. If CSG Systems International 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 CSG Systems International's Profit Performance

Unusual items (expenses) detracted from CSG Systems International's earnings over the last year, but we might see an improvement next year. Based on this observation, we consider it likely that CSG Systems International's statutory profit actually understates its earnings potential! And the EPS is up 21% annually, over the last three years. The goal of this article has been to assess how well we can rely on the statutory earnings to reflect the company's potential, but there is plenty more to consider. If you want to do dive deeper into CSG Systems International, you'd also look into what risks it is currently facing. For example - CSG Systems International has 1 warning sign we think you should be aware of.

This note has only looked at a single factor that sheds light on the nature of CSG Systems International's profit. But there is always more to discover if you are capable of focussing your mind on minutiae. Some people consider a high return on equity to be a good sign of a quality business. So you may wish to see this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks that insiders are buying.

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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.