IDT Corporation's (NYSE:IDT) stock was strong despite it releasing a soft earnings report last week. Our analysis suggests that investors may have noticed some promising signs beyond the statutory profit figures.

Check out our latest analysis for IDT

How Do Unusual Items Influence Profit?

Importantly, our data indicates that IDT's profit was reduced by US$9.3m, 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. 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 IDT 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 IDT.

Our Take On IDT's Profit Performance

Because unusual items detracted from IDT's earnings over the last year, you could argue that we can expect an improved result in the current quarter. Based on this observation, we consider it likely that IDT's statutory profit actually understates its earnings potential! And on top of that, its earnings per share have grown at 22% per year over the last three years. 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. While it's very important to consider the profit and loss statement, you can also learn a lot about a company by looking at its balance sheet. You can see our latest analysis on IDT's balance sheet health here.

This note has only looked at a single factor that sheds light on the nature of IDT'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.