The market for Nanjing Inform Storage Equipment (Group) Co., Ltd.'s (SHSE:603066) shares didn't move much after it posted weak earnings recently. We think that the softer headline numbers might be getting counterbalanced by some positive underlying factors.

How Do Unusual Items Influence Profit?

For anyone who wants to understand Nanjing Inform Storage Equipment (Group)'s profit beyond the statutory numbers, it's important to note that during the last twelve months statutory profit was reduced by CN¥23m due 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 that's hardly a surprise given these line items are considered unusual. If Nanjing Inform Storage Equipment (Group) doesn't see those unusual expenses repeat, then all else being equal we'd expect its profit to increase over the coming year.

Note: we always recommend investors check balance sheet strength. Click here to be taken to our balance sheet analysis of Nanjing Inform Storage Equipment (Group).

Our Take On Nanjing Inform Storage Equipment (Group)'s Profit Performance

Unusual items (expenses) detracted from Nanjing Inform Storage Equipment (Group)'s earnings over the last year, but we might see an improvement next year. Based on this observation, we consider it likely that Nanjing Inform Storage Equipment (Group)'s statutory profit actually understates its earnings potential! And the EPS is up 36% annually, over the last three years. At the end of the day, it's essential to consider more than just the factors above, if you want to understand the company properly. Keep in mind, when it comes to analysing a stock it's worth noting the risks involved. While conducting our analysis, we found that Nanjing Inform Storage Equipment (Group) has 1 warning sign and it would be unwise to ignore it.

Today we've zoomed in on a single data point to better understand the nature of Nanjing Inform Storage Equipment (Group)'s profit. But there are plenty of other ways to inform your opinion of a company. 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. 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.