It's not a stretch to say that Xinyi Glass Holdings Limited's (HKG:868) price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 8.9x right now seems quite "middle-of-the-road" compared to the market in Hong Kong, where the median P/E ratio is around 9x.  However, investors might be overlooking a clear opportunity or potential setback if there is no rational basis for the P/E.  

Recent times haven't been advantageous for Xinyi Glass Holdings as its earnings have been falling quicker than most other companies.   It might be that many expect the dismal earnings performance to revert back to market averages soon, which has kept the P/E from falling.  You'd much rather the company wasn't bleeding earnings if you still believe in the business.  If not, then existing shareholders may be a little nervous about the viability of the share price.    

View our latest analysis for Xinyi Glass Holdings

SEHK:868 Price to Earnings Ratio vs Industry December 25th 2023

Want the full picture on analyst estimates for the company? Then our free report on Xinyi Glass Holdings will help you uncover what's on the horizon.  

How Is Xinyi Glass Holdings' Growth Trending?  

Xinyi Glass Holdings' P/E ratio would be typical for a company that's only expected to deliver moderate growth, and importantly, perform in line with the market.  

Taking a look back first, the company's earnings per share growth last year wasn't something to get excited about as it posted a disappointing decline of 59%.   At least EPS has managed not to go completely backwards from three years ago in aggregate, thanks to the earlier period of growth.  So it appears to us that the company has had a mixed result in terms of growing earnings over that time.  

Shifting to the future, estimates from the eleven analysts covering the company suggest earnings should grow by 23% per year over the next three years.  With the market only predicted to deliver 16% per year, the company is positioned for a stronger earnings result.

In light of this, it's curious that Xinyi Glass Holdings' P/E sits in line with the majority of other companies.  Apparently some shareholders are skeptical of the forecasts and have been accepting lower selling prices.  

The Key Takeaway

It's argued the price-to-earnings ratio is an inferior measure of value within certain industries, but it can be a powerful business sentiment indicator.

Our examination of Xinyi Glass Holdings' analyst forecasts revealed that its superior earnings outlook isn't contributing to its P/E as much as we would have predicted.  When we see a strong earnings outlook with faster-than-market growth, we assume potential risks are what might be placing pressure on the P/E ratio.  It appears some are indeed anticipating earnings instability, because these conditions should normally provide a boost to the share price.    

We don't want to rain on the parade too much, but we did also find 3 warning signs for Xinyi Glass Holdings that you need to be mindful of.  

You might be able to find a better investment than Xinyi Glass Holdings. If you want a selection of possible candidates, check out this free list of interesting companies that trade on a low P/E (but have proven they can grow earnings).

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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.