For beginners, it can seem like a good idea (and an exciting prospect) to buy a company that tells a good story to investors, even if it currently lacks a track record of revenue and profit. But as Peter Lynch said in One Up On Wall Street, 'Long shots almost never pay off.' A loss-making company is yet to prove itself with profit, and eventually the inflow of external capital may dry up.

So if this idea of high risk and high reward doesn't suit, you might be more interested in profitable, growing companies, like Graphic Packaging Holding (NYSE:GPK). Even if this company is fairly valued by the market, investors would agree that generating consistent profits will continue to provide Graphic Packaging Holding with the means to add long-term value to shareholders.

View our latest analysis for Graphic Packaging Holding

How Fast Is Graphic Packaging Holding Growing Its Earnings Per Share?

Over the last three years, Graphic Packaging Holding has grown earnings per share (EPS) at as impressive rate from a relatively low point, resulting in a three year percentage growth rate that isn't particularly indicative of expected future performance. Thus, it makes sense to focus on more recent growth rates, instead. Outstandingly, Graphic Packaging Holding's EPS shot from US$1.31 to US$2.23, over the last year. It's a rarity to see 70% year-on-year growth like that.

One way to double-check a company's growth is to look at how its revenue, and earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) margins are changing. The music to the ears of Graphic Packaging Holding shareholders is that EBIT margins have grown from 10% to 13% in the last 12 months and revenues are on an upwards trend as well. Both of which are great metrics to check off for potential growth.

In the chart below, you can see how the company has grown earnings and revenue, over time. To see the actual numbers, click on the chart.

Fortunately, we've got access to analyst forecasts of Graphic Packaging Holding's future profits. You can do your own forecasts without looking, or you can take a peek at what the professionals are predicting.

Are Graphic Packaging Holding Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?

Owing to the size of Graphic Packaging Holding, we wouldn't expect insiders to hold a significant proportion of the company. But we do take comfort from the fact that they are investors in the company. With a whopping US$83m worth of shares as a group, insiders have plenty riding on the company's success. This would indicate that the goals of shareholders and management are one and the same.

Does Graphic Packaging Holding Deserve A Spot On Your Watchlist?

Graphic Packaging Holding's earnings per share growth have been climbing higher at an appreciable rate. That sort of growth is nothing short of eye-catching, and the large investment held by insiders should certainly brighten the view of the company. The hope is, of course, that the strong growth marks a fundamental improvement in the business economics. So based on this quick analysis, we do think it's worth considering Graphic Packaging Holding for a spot on your watchlist. However, before you get too excited we've discovered 2 warning signs for Graphic Packaging Holding that you should be aware of.

The beauty of investing is that you can invest in almost any company you want. But if you prefer to focus on stocks that have demonstrated insider buying, here is a list of companies with insider buying in the last three months.

Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction.

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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.