Unpleasant Surprises Could Be In Store For Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics Co., Ltd's (SHSE:688699) Shares

There wouldn't be many who think Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics Co., Ltd's (SHSE:688699) price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of 4.6x is worth a mention when the median P/S for the Semiconductor industry in China is similar at about 5.1x. While this might not raise any eyebrows, if the P/S ratio is not justified investors could be missing out on a potential opportunity or ignoring looming disappointment.

Check out our latest analysis for Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics

What Does Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics' P/S Mean For Shareholders?

The recent revenue growth at Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics would have to be considered satisfactory if not spectacular. One possibility is that the P/S is moderate because investors think this good revenue growth might only be parallel to the broader industry in the near future. If you like the company, you'd be hoping this isn't the case so that you could potentially pick up some stock while it's not quite in favour.

We don't have analyst forecasts, but you can see how recent trends are setting up the company for the future by checking out our free report on Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics' earnings, revenue and cash flow.

How Is Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics' Revenue Growth Trending?

In order to justify its P/S ratio, Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics would need to produce growth that's similar to the industry.

If we review the last year of revenue growth, the company posted a worthy increase of 4.0%. Ultimately though, it couldn't turn around the poor performance of the prior period, with revenue shrinking 35% in total over the last three years. Accordingly, shareholders would have felt downbeat about the medium-term rates of revenue growth.

Comparing that to the industry, which is predicted to deliver 36% growth in the next 12 months, the company's downward momentum based on recent medium-term revenue results is a sobering picture.

In light of this, it's somewhat alarming that Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics' P/S sits in line with the majority of other companies. Apparently many investors in the company are way less bearish than recent times would indicate and aren't willing to let go of their stock right now. 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 the recent negative growth rates.

What Does Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics' P/S Mean For Investors?

It's argued the price-to-sales ratio is an inferior measure of value within certain industries, but it can be a powerful business sentiment indicator.

We find it unexpected that Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics trades at a P/S ratio that is comparable to the rest of the industry, despite experiencing declining revenues during the medium-term, while the industry as a whole is expected to grow. When we see revenue heading backwards in the context of growing industry forecasts, it'd make sense to expect a possible share price decline on the horizon, sending the moderate P/S lower. If recent medium-term revenue 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 - Shenzhen Sunmoon Microelectronics has 2 warning signs (and 1 which is a bit unpleasant) we think you should know about.

Of course, profitable companies with a history of great earnings growth are generally safer bets. So you may wish to see this free collection of other companies that have reasonable P/E ratios and have grown earnings strongly.

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.