The Beijing Gas Blue Sky Holdings Limited (HKG:6828) share price has fared very poorly over the last month, falling by a substantial 28%. The recent drop completes a disastrous twelve months for shareholders, who are sitting on a 65% loss during that time.
Although its price has dipped substantially, there still wouldn't be many who think Beijing Gas Blue Sky Holdings' price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 7.2x is worth a mention when the median P/E in Hong Kong is similar at about 9x. However, investors might be overlooking a clear opportunity or potential setback if there is no rational basis for the P/E.
With earnings growth that's exceedingly strong of late, Beijing Gas Blue Sky Holdings has been doing very well. The P/E is probably moderate because investors think this strong earnings growth might not be enough to outperform the broader market in the near future. If that doesn't eventuate, then existing shareholders have reason to be feeling optimistic about the future direction of the share price.
See our latest analysis for Beijing Gas Blue Sky Holdings
How Is Beijing Gas Blue Sky Holdings' Growth Trending?
The only time you'd be comfortable seeing a P/E like Beijing Gas Blue Sky Holdings' is when the company's growth is tracking the market closely.
Taking a look back first, we see that the company grew earnings per share by an impressive 181% last year. Although, its longer-term performance hasn't been as strong with three-year EPS growth being relatively non-existent overall. Accordingly, shareholders probably wouldn't have been overly satisfied with the unstable medium-term growth rates.
Comparing that to the market, which is predicted to deliver 19% growth in the next 12 months, the company's momentum is weaker based on recent medium-term annualised earnings results.
With this information, we find it interesting that Beijing Gas Blue Sky Holdings is trading at a fairly similar P/E to the market. It seems most investors are ignoring the fairly limited recent growth rates and are willing to pay up for exposure to the stock. They may be setting themselves up for future disappointment if the P/E falls to levels more in line with recent growth rates.
What We Can Learn From Beijing Gas Blue Sky Holdings' P/E?
Following Beijing Gas Blue Sky Holdings' share price tumble, its P/E is now hanging on to the median market P/E. While the price-to-earnings ratio shouldn't be the defining factor in whether you buy a stock or not, it's quite a capable barometer of earnings expectations.
Our examination of Beijing Gas Blue Sky Holdings revealed its three-year earnings trends aren't impacting its P/E as much as we would have predicted, given they look worse than current market expectations. Right now we are uncomfortable with the P/E as this earnings performance isn't likely 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.
Before you settle on your opinion, we've discovered 3 warning signs for Beijing Gas Blue Sky Holdings (1 is concerning!) that you should be aware of.
You might be able to find a better investment than Beijing Gas Blue Sky 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.
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