It's not a stretch to say that World-Link Logistics (Asia) Holding Limited's (HKG:6083) price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 8.5x right now seems quite "middle-of-the-road" compared to the market in Hong Kong, where the median P/E ratio is around 11x. 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 World-Link Logistics (Asia) Holding'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.
View our latest analysis for World-Link Logistics (Asia) Holding
What Are Growth Metrics Telling Us About The P/E?
The only time you'd be comfortable seeing a P/E like World-Link Logistics (Asia) Holding's is when the company's growth is tracking the market closely.
Retrospectively, the last year delivered a frustrating 5.0% decrease to the company's bottom line. As a result, earnings from three years ago have also fallen 2.9% 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 20% growth in the next 12 months, the company's downward momentum based on recent medium-term earnings results is a sobering picture.
In light of this, it's somewhat alarming that World-Link Logistics (Asia) Holding's P/E sits in line with the majority of other companies. It seems most investors are ignoring the recent poor growth rate and are hoping for a turnaround in the company's business prospects. 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
Using the price-to-earnings ratio alone to determine if you should sell your stock isn't sensible, however it can be a practical guide to the company's future prospects.
We've established that World-Link Logistics (Asia) Holding 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.
You need to take note of risks, for example - World-Link Logistics (Asia) Holding has 3 warning signs (and 1 which is a bit concerning) we think you should know about.
It's important to make sure you look for a great company, not just the first idea you come across. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with strong recent earnings growth (and a low P/E).
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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.