We Think You Can Look Beyond NEXON's (TSE:3659) Lackluster Earnings

NEXON Co., Ltd.'s (TSE:3659) earnings announcement last week didn't impress shareholders. Despite the soft profit numbers, our analysis has optimistic about the overall quality of the income statement.

View our latest analysis for NEXON

The Impact Of Unusual Items On Profit

For anyone who wants to understand NEXON's profit beyond the statutory numbers, it's important to note that during the last twelve months statutory profit was reduced by JP¥41b due 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. If NEXON doesn't see those unusual expenses repeat, then all else being equal we'd expect its profit to increase over the coming year.

That might leave you wondering what analysts are forecasting in terms of future profitability. Luckily, you can click here to see an interactive graph depicting future profitability, based on their estimates.

Our Take On NEXON's Profit Performance

Unusual items (expenses) detracted from NEXON's earnings over the last year, but we might see an improvement next year. Based on this observation, we consider it likely that NEXON's statutory profit actually understates its earnings potential! And it's also good to see that its earnings per share have improved a bit over the last three years. Of course, we've only just scratched the surface when it comes to analysing its earnings; one could also consider margins, forecast growth, and return on investment, among other factors. Keep in mind, when it comes to analysing a stock it's worth noting the risks involved. Every company has risks, and we've spotted 3 warning signs for NEXON you should know about.

Today we've zoomed in on a single data point to better understand the nature of NEXON's 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.