The 11% return this week takes Jiangsu Phoenix Property Investment's (SHSE:600716) shareholders five-year gains to 15%

The main point of investing for the long term is to make money. Better yet, you'd like to see the share price move up more than the market average. But Jiangsu Phoenix Property Investment Company Limited (SHSE:600716) has fallen short of that second goal, with a share price rise of 11% over five years, which is below the market return. Over the last twelve months the stock price has risen a very respectable 6.3%.

Since it's been a strong week for Jiangsu Phoenix Property Investment shareholders, let's have a look at trend of the longer term fundamentals.

Check out our latest analysis for Jiangsu Phoenix Property Investment

Jiangsu Phoenix Property Investment wasn't profitable in the last twelve months, it is unlikely we'll see a strong correlation between its share price and its earnings per share (EPS). Arguably revenue is our next best option. Generally speaking, companies without profits are expected to grow revenue every year, and at a good clip. As you can imagine, fast revenue growth, when maintained, often leads to fast profit growth.

In the last 5 years Jiangsu Phoenix Property Investment saw its revenue shrink by 19% per year. The stock is only up 2% for each year during the period. That's pretty decent given the top line decline, and lack of profits. Of course, a closer look at the bottom line - and any available analyst forecasts - could reveal an opportunity (if they point to future growth).

You can see below how earnings and revenue have changed over time (discover the exact values by clicking on the image).

You can see how its balance sheet has strengthened (or weakened) over time in this free interactive graphic.

What About The Total Shareholder Return (TSR)?

We'd be remiss not to mention the difference between Jiangsu Phoenix Property Investment's total shareholder return (TSR) and its share price return. Arguably the TSR is a more complete return calculation because it accounts for the value of dividends (as if they were reinvested), along with the hypothetical value of any discounted capital that have been offered to shareholders. Its history of dividend payouts mean that Jiangsu Phoenix Property Investment's TSR of 15% over the last 5 years is better than the share price return.

A Different Perspective

Jiangsu Phoenix Property Investment shareholders gained a total return of 6.3% during the year. But that was short of the market average. On the bright side, that's still a gain, and it's actually better than the average return of 3% over half a decade It is possible that returns will improve along with the business fundamentals. I find it very interesting to look at share price over the long term as a proxy for business performance. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Take risks, for example - Jiangsu Phoenix Property Investment has 1 warning sign we think you should be aware of.

If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of companies that have proven they can grow earnings.

Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on Chinese exchanges.

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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.