There wouldn't be many who think Fujian Nanwang Environment Protection Scien-Tech Co.,Ltd's (SZSE:301355) price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 29.4x is worth a mention when the median P/E in China is similar at about 28x. Although, it's not wise to simply ignore the P/E without explanation as investors may be disregarding a distinct opportunity or a costly mistake.

For example, consider that Fujian Nanwang Environment Protection Scien-TechLtd's financial performance has been poor lately as its earnings have been in decline. It might be that many expect the company to put the disappointing earnings performance behind them over the coming period, which has kept the P/E from falling. If you like the company, you'd at least be hoping this is the case so that you could potentially pick up some stock while it's not quite in favour.

Is There Some Growth For Fujian Nanwang Environment Protection Scien-TechLtd?

The only time you'd be comfortable seeing a P/E like Fujian Nanwang Environment Protection Scien-TechLtd's is when the company's growth is tracking the market closely.

Retrospectively, the last year delivered a frustrating 1.6% decrease to the company's bottom line. As a result, earnings from three years ago have also fallen 8.7% overall. So unfortunately, we have to acknowledge that the company has not done a great job of growing earnings over that time.

Comparing that to the market, which is predicted to deliver 42% growth in the next 12 months, the company's downward momentum based on recent medium-term earnings results is a sobering picture.

With this information, we find it concerning that Fujian Nanwang Environment Protection Scien-TechLtd is trading at a fairly similar P/E to the market. 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. There's a good chance existing shareholders are setting themselves up for future disappointment if the P/E falls to levels more in line with the recent negative growth rates.

The Final Word

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.

We've established that Fujian Nanwang Environment Protection Scien-TechLtd currently trades on a higher than expected P/E since its recent earnings have been in decline over the medium-term. Right now we are uncomfortable with the P/E as this earnings performance is unlikely to support a more positive sentiment for long. If recent medium-term earnings trends continue, it will place shareholders' investments at risk and potential investors in danger of paying an unnecessary premium.

Before you settle on your opinion, we've discovered 1 warning sign for Fujian Nanwang Environment Protection Scien-TechLtd that you should be aware of.

You might be able to find a better investment than Fujian Nanwang Environment Protection Scien-TechLtd. 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.