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North Chemical Industries Co., Ltd.'s (SZSE:002246) Popularity With Investors Is Under Threat From Overpricing

北化工業株式会社(SZSE:002246)の投資家への人気は、オーバープライシングの脅威に直面しています

Simply Wall St ·  01/29 01:32

There wouldn't be many who think North Chemical Industries Co., Ltd.'s (SZSE:002246) price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of 1.9x is worth a mention when the median P/S for the Chemicals industry in China is similar at about 2.2x. However, investors might be overlooking a clear opportunity or potential setback if there is no rational basis for the P/S.

View our latest analysis for North Chemical Industries

ps-multiple-vs-industry
SZSE:002246 Price to Sales Ratio vs Industry January 29th 2024

What Does North Chemical Industries' P/S Mean For Shareholders?

For example, consider that North Chemical Industries' financial performance has been poor lately as its revenue has been in decline. Perhaps investors believe the recent revenue performance is enough to keep in line with the industry, which is keeping the P/S from dropping off. If not, then existing shareholders may be a little nervous about the viability of the share price.

We don't have analyst forecasts, but you can see how recent trends are setting up the company for the future by checking out our free report on North Chemical Industries' earnings, revenue and cash flow.

Do Revenue Forecasts Match The P/S Ratio?

The only time you'd be comfortable seeing a P/S like North Chemical Industries' is when the company's growth is tracking the industry closely.

Retrospectively, the last year delivered a frustrating 14% decrease to the company's top line. As a result, revenue from three years ago have also fallen 9.1% overall. Accordingly, shareholders would have felt downbeat about the medium-term rates of revenue growth.

Weighing that medium-term revenue trajectory against the broader industry's one-year forecast for expansion of 27% shows it's an unpleasant look.

With this information, we find it concerning that North Chemical Industries is trading at a fairly similar P/S compared to the industry. Apparently many investors in the company are way less bearish than recent times would indicate and aren't willing to let go of their stock right now. Only the boldest would assume these prices are sustainable as a continuation of recent revenue trends is likely to weigh on the share price eventually.

The Bottom Line On North Chemical Industries' P/S

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

The fact that North Chemical Industries currently trades at a P/S on par with the rest of the industry is surprising to us since its recent revenues have been in decline over the medium-term, all while the industry is set to grow. Even though it matches the industry, we're uncomfortable with the current P/S ratio, as this dismal revenue performance is unlikely to support a more positive sentiment for long. If recent medium-term revenue trends continue, it will place shareholders' investments at risk and potential investors in danger of paying an unnecessary premium.

Before you take the next step, you should know about the 4 warning signs for North Chemical Industries (2 are potentially serious!) that we have uncovered.

If companies with solid past earnings growth is up your alley, you may wish to see this free collection of other companies with strong earnings growth and low P/E ratios.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.
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.

これらの内容は、情報提供及び投資家教育のためのものであり、いかなる個別株や投資方法を推奨するものではありません。 更に詳しい情報
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