CSL's (ASX:CSL) Problems Go Beyond Weak Profit

CSL Limited's (ASX:CSL) recent weak earnings report didn't cause a big stock movement. However, we believe that investors should be aware of some underlying factors which may be of concern.

View our latest analysis for CSL

One essential aspect of assessing earnings quality is to look at how much a company is diluting shareholders. As it happens, CSL issued 5.9% more new shares over the last year. As a result, its net income is now split between a greater number of shares. Per share metrics like EPS help us understand how much actual shareholders are benefitting from the company's profits, while the net income level gives us a better view of the company's absolute size. You can see a chart of CSL's EPS by clicking here.

How Is Dilution Impacting CSL's Earnings Per Share? (EPS)

CSL has improved its profit over the last three years, with an annualized gain of 29% in that time. Net profit actually dropped by 13% in the last year. But the EPS result was even worth, with the company recording a decline of 13%. So you can see that the dilution has had a bit of an impact on shareholders.

In the long term, if CSL's earnings per share can increase, then the share price should too. But on the other hand, we'd be far less excited to learn profit (but not EPS) was improving. For that reason, you could say that EPS is more important that net income in the long run, assuming the goal is to assess whether a company's share price might grow.

That might leave you wondering what analysts are forecasting in terms of future profitability. Luckily, you can click here to see an interactive graph depicting future profitability, based on their estimates.

Our Take On CSL's Profit Performance

CSL issued shares during the year, and that means its EPS performance lags its net income growth. Therefore, it seems possible to us that CSL's true underlying earnings power is actually less than its statutory profit. Nonetheless, it's still worth noting that its earnings per share have grown at 28% over the last three years. Of course, we've only just scratched the surface when it comes to analysing its earnings; one could also consider margins, forecast growth, and return on investment, among other factors. Keep in mind, when it comes to analysing a stock it's worth noting the risks involved. You'd be interested to know, that we found 1 warning sign for CSL and you'll want to know about this.

Today we've zoomed in on a single data point to better understand the nature of CSL's profit. But there is always more to discover if you are capable of focussing your mind on minutiae. For example, many people consider a high return on equity as an indication of favorable business economics, while others like to 'follow the money' and search out stocks that insiders are buying. So you may wish to see this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks that insiders are buying.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.

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.