Despite an already strong run, Hengxin Technology Ltd. (HKG:1085) shares have been powering on, with a gain of 27% in the last thirty days. Not all shareholders will be feeling jubilant, since the share price is still down a very disappointing 26% in the last twelve months.
In spite of the firm bounce in price, you could still be forgiven for feeling indifferent about Hengxin Technology's P/E ratio of 9.9x, since the median price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio in Hong Kong is also close to 10x. 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.
Earnings have risen firmly for Hengxin Technology recently, which is pleasing to see. One possibility is that the P/E is moderate because investors think this respectable earnings growth might not be enough to outperform the broader market in the near future. If that doesn't eventuate, then existing shareholders probably aren't too pessimistic about the future direction of the share price.
See our latest analysis for Hengxin Technology
Is There Some Growth For Hengxin Technology?
Hengxin Technology's 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, we see that the company managed to grow earnings per share by a handy 9.6% last year. Still, lamentably EPS has fallen 5.2% in aggregate from three years ago, which is disappointing. So unfortunately, we have to acknowledge that the company has not done a great job of growing earnings over that time.
Weighing that medium-term earnings trajectory against the broader market's one-year forecast for expansion of 20% shows it's an unpleasant look.
In light of this, it's somewhat alarming that Hengxin Technology's P/E sits in line with the majority of other companies. 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 earnings trends is likely to weigh on the share price eventually.
The Final Word
Its shares have lifted substantially and now Hengxin Technology's P/E is also back up to the market median. Generally, our preference is to limit the use of the price-to-earnings ratio to establishing what the market thinks about the overall health of a company.
We've established that Hengxin Technology 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. Unless the recent medium-term conditions improve, it's challenging to accept these prices as being reasonable.
It's always necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 3 warning signs with Hengxin Technology (at least 1 which shouldn't be ignored), and understanding these should be part of your investment process.
You might be able to find a better investment than Hengxin Technology. 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.