With a median price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of close to 0.5x in the Electrical industry in Hong Kong, you could be forgiven for feeling indifferent about Kingbo Strike Limited's (HKG:1421) P/S ratio, which comes in at about the same. 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.
View our latest analysis for Kingbo Strike
How Has Kingbo Strike Performed Recently?
For example, consider that Kingbo Strike's financial performance has been poor lately as its revenue has been in decline. Perhaps investors believe the recent revenue performance is enough to keep in line with the industry, which is keeping the P/S from dropping off. If you like the company, you'd at least be hoping this is the case so that you could potentially pick up some stock while it's not quite in favour.
Want the full picture on earnings, revenue and cash flow for the company? Then our free report on Kingbo Strike will help you shine a light on its historical performance.Do Revenue Forecasts Match The P/S Ratio?
In order to justify its P/S ratio, Kingbo Strike would need to produce growth that's similar to the industry.
Retrospectively, the last year delivered a frustrating 61% decrease to the company's top line. As a result, revenue from three years ago have also fallen 73% overall. Therefore, it's fair to say the revenue growth recently has been undesirable for the company.
In contrast to the company, the rest of the industry is expected to grow by 25% over the next year, which really puts the company's recent medium-term revenue decline into perspective.
With this in mind, we find it worrying that Kingbo Strike's P/S exceeds that of its industry peers. It seems most investors are ignoring the recent poor growth rate and are hoping for a turnaround in the company's business prospects. 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 We Can Learn From Kingbo Strike's P/S?
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.
Our look at Kingbo Strike revealed its shrinking revenues over the medium-term haven't impacted the P/S as much as we anticipated, given the industry is set to grow. Even though it matches the industry, we're uncomfortable with the current P/S ratio, as this dismal revenue performance is unlikely to support a more positive sentiment for long. If recent medium-term revenue trends continue, it will place shareholders' investments at risk and potential investors in danger of paying an unnecessary premium.
There are also other vital risk factors to consider and we've discovered 4 warning signs for Kingbo Strike (3 are concerning!) that you should be aware of before investing here.
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.
About SEHK:1421
Kingbo Strike
An investment holding company, engages in the supply and installation of solar photovoltaic parts and equipment in the People's Republic of China.
Excellent balance sheet low.