Market Might Still Lack Some Conviction On Pentanet Limited (ASX:5GG) Even After 25% Share Price Boost
The Pentanet Limited (ASX:5GG) share price has done very well over the last month, posting an excellent gain of 25%. Not all shareholders will be feeling jubilant, since the share price is still down a very disappointing 33% in the last twelve months.
Although its price has surged higher, there still wouldn't be many who think Pentanet's price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of 1.6x is worth a mention when the median P/S in Australia's Telecom industry is similar at about 1.3x. Although, it's not wise to simply ignore the P/S without explanation as investors may be disregarding a distinct opportunity or a costly mistake.
Check out our latest analysis for Pentanet
What Does Pentanet's Recent Performance Look Like?
With revenue growth that's superior to most other companies of late, Pentanet has been doing relatively well. One possibility is that the P/S ratio is moderate because investors think this strong revenue performance might be about to tail off. If not, then existing shareholders have reason to be feeling optimistic about the future direction of the share price.
Keen to find out how analysts think Pentanet's future stacks up against the industry? In that case, our free report is a great place to start.Do Revenue Forecasts Match The P/S Ratio?
Pentanet'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 decent 9.8% gain to the company's revenues. Pleasingly, revenue has also lifted 157% in aggregate from three years ago, partly thanks to the last 12 months of growth. Accordingly, shareholders would have definitely welcomed those medium-term rates of revenue growth.
Looking ahead now, revenue is anticipated to climb by 36% during the coming year according to the dual analysts following the company. Meanwhile, the rest of the industry is forecast to only expand by 6.4%, which is noticeably less attractive.
In light of this, it's curious that Pentanet's P/S sits in line with the majority of other companies. It may be that most investors aren't convinced the company can achieve future growth expectations.
What Does Pentanet's P/S Mean For Investors?
Pentanet appears to be back in favour with a solid price jump bringing its P/S back in line with other companies in the industry Using the price-to-sales 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.
Looking at Pentanet's analyst forecasts revealed that its superior revenue outlook isn't giving the boost to its P/S that we would've expected. Perhaps uncertainty in the revenue forecasts are what's keeping the P/S ratio consistent with the rest of the industry. It appears some are indeed anticipating revenue instability, because these conditions should normally provide a boost to the share price.
Having said that, be aware Pentanet is showing 4 warning signs in our investment analysis, and 1 of those shouldn't be ignored.
If strong companies turning a profit tickle your fancy, then you'll want to 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.
About ASX:5GG
Pentanet
Engages in the provision of Internet and associated telecommunications products and services in Australia.
Slight with imperfect balance sheet.