With a median price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of close to 0.4x in the Electronic industry in Hong Kong, you could be forgiven for feeling indifferent about FIH Mobile Limited's (HKG:2038) P/S ratio of 0.1x. While this might not raise any eyebrows, if the P/S ratio is not justified investors could be missing out on a potential opportunity or ignoring looming disappointment.
See our latest analysis for FIH Mobile
What Does FIH Mobile's Recent Performance Look Like?
For instance, FIH Mobile's receding revenue in recent times would have to be some food for thought. 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 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.
Although there are no analyst estimates available for FIH Mobile, take a look at this free data-rich visualisation to see how the company stacks up on earnings, revenue and cash flow.How Is FIH Mobile's Revenue Growth Trending?
FIH Mobile's P/S ratio would be typical for a company that's only expected to deliver moderate growth, and importantly, perform in line with the industry.
Retrospectively, the last year delivered a frustrating 31% decrease to the company's top line. This means it has also seen a slide in revenue over the longer-term as revenue is down 28% in total over the last three years. Therefore, it's fair to say the revenue growth recently has been undesirable for the company.
Comparing that to the industry, which is predicted to deliver 20% growth in the next 12 months, the company's downward momentum based on recent medium-term revenue results is a sobering picture.
In light of this, it's somewhat alarming that FIH Mobile's P/S 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 revenue trends is likely to weigh on the share price eventually.
What We Can Learn From FIH Mobile's P/S?
We'd say the price-to-sales ratio's power isn't primarily as a valuation instrument but rather to gauge current investor sentiment and future expectations.
We find it unexpected that FIH Mobile trades at a P/S ratio that is comparable to the rest of the industry, despite experiencing declining revenues during the medium-term, while the industry as a whole is expected 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. Unless the recent medium-term conditions improve markedly, investors will have a hard time accepting the share price as fair value.
The company's balance sheet is another key area for risk analysis. Our free balance sheet analysis for FIH Mobile with six simple checks will allow you to discover any risks that could be an issue.
If you're unsure about the strength of FIH Mobile's business, why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals for some other companies you may have missed.
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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.