There's Reason For Concern Over Sichuan Dawn Precision Technology Co.,Ltd.'s (SZSE:300780) Price

Sichuan Dawn Precision Technology Co.,Ltd.'s (SZSE:300780) price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of 3.9x may not look like an appealing investment opportunity when you consider close to half the companies in the Machinery industry in China have P/S ratios below 2.2x. However, the P/S might be high for a reason and it requires further investigation to determine if it's justified.

Check out our latest analysis for Sichuan Dawn Precision TechnologyLtd

What Does Sichuan Dawn Precision TechnologyLtd's Recent Performance Look Like?

As an illustration, revenue has deteriorated at Sichuan Dawn Precision TechnologyLtd over the last year, which is not ideal at all. It might be that many expect the company to still outplay most other companies over the coming period, which has kept the P/S from collapsing. You'd really hope so, otherwise you're paying a pretty hefty price for no particular reason.

Although there are no analyst estimates available for Sichuan Dawn Precision TechnologyLtd, take a look at this free data-rich visualisation to see how the company stacks up on earnings, revenue and cash flow.

What Are Revenue Growth Metrics Telling Us About The High P/S?

Sichuan Dawn Precision TechnologyLtd's P/S ratio would be typical for a company that's expected to deliver solid growth, and importantly, perform better than the industry.

In reviewing the last year of financials, we were disheartened to see the company's revenues fell to the tune of 13%. Regardless, revenue has managed to lift by a handy 6.8% in aggregate from three years ago, thanks to the earlier period of growth. Accordingly, while they would have preferred to keep the run going, shareholders would be roughly satisfied with the medium-term rates of revenue growth.

Comparing that to the industry, which is predicted to deliver 24% growth in the next 12 months, the company's momentum is weaker, based on recent medium-term annualised revenue results.

In light of this, it's alarming that Sichuan Dawn Precision TechnologyLtd's P/S sits above the majority of other companies. Apparently many investors in the company are way more bullish than recent times would indicate and aren't willing to let go of their stock at any price. There's a good chance existing shareholders are setting themselves up for future disappointment if the P/S falls to levels more in line with recent growth rates.

The Bottom Line On Sichuan Dawn Precision TechnologyLtd's P/S

While the price-to-sales ratio shouldn't be the defining factor in whether you buy a stock or not, it's quite a capable barometer of revenue expectations.

The fact that Sichuan Dawn Precision TechnologyLtd currently trades on a higher P/S relative to the industry is an oddity, since its recent three-year growth is lower than the wider industry forecast. When we see slower than industry revenue growth but an elevated P/S, there's considerable risk of the share price declining, sending the P/S lower. If recent medium-term revenue trends continue, it will place shareholders' investments at significant risk and potential investors in danger of paying an excessive premium.

You need to take note of risks, for example - Sichuan Dawn Precision TechnologyLtd has 4 warning signs (and 3 which are a bit unpleasant) we think you should know about.

If companies with solid past earnings growth is up your alley, you may wish to see this free collection of other companies with strong earnings growth and low P/E ratios.

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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.