We Think You Can Look Beyond Chen Hsong Holdings' (HKG:57) Lackluster Earnings

The market for Chen Hsong Holdings Limited's (HKG:57) shares didn't move much after it posted weak earnings recently. We think that the softer headline numbers might be getting counterbalanced by some positive underlying factors.

See our latest analysis for Chen Hsong Holdings

The Impact Of Unusual Items On Profit

To properly understand Chen Hsong Holdings' profit results, we need to consider the HK$11m expense attributed to unusual items. While deductions due to unusual items are disappointing in the first instance, there is a silver lining. When we analysed the vast majority of listed companies worldwide, we found that significant unusual items are often not repeated. And that's hardly a surprise given these line items are considered unusual. In the twelve months to March 2024, Chen Hsong Holdings had a big unusual items expense. As a result, we can surmise that the unusual items made its statutory profit significantly weaker than it would otherwise be.

Note: we always recommend investors check balance sheet strength. Click here to be taken to our balance sheet analysis of Chen Hsong Holdings.

Our Take On Chen Hsong Holdings' Profit Performance

As we discussed above, we think the significant unusual expense will make Chen Hsong Holdings' statutory profit lower than it would otherwise have been. Based on this observation, we consider it possible that Chen Hsong Holdings' statutory profit actually understates its earnings potential! Unfortunately, though, its earnings per share actually fell back over the last year. The goal of this article has been to assess how well we can rely on the statutory earnings to reflect the company's potential, but there is plenty more to consider. Keep in mind, when it comes to analysing a stock it's worth noting the risks involved. While conducting our analysis, we found that Chen Hsong Holdings has 1 warning sign and it would be unwise to ignore it.

Today we've zoomed in on a single data point to better understand the nature of Chen Hsong Holdings' profit. But there is always more to discover if you are capable of focussing your mind on minutiae. Some people consider a high return on equity to be a good sign of a quality business. So you may wish to see this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks with high insider ownership.

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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.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com