We Think You Can Look Beyond NSW's (TSE:9739) Lackluster Earnings

NSW Inc.'s (TSE:9739) 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.

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How Do Unusual Items Influence Profit?

To properly understand NSW's profit results, we need to consider the JP¥739m expense attributed to unusual items. It's never great to see unusual items costing the company profits, but on the upside, things might improve sooner rather than later. When we analysed the vast majority of listed companies worldwide, we found that significant unusual items are often not repeated. And, after all, that's exactly what the accounting terminology implies. If NSW doesn't see those unusual expenses repeat, then all else being equal we'd expect its profit to increase over the coming year.

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

Our Take On NSW's Profit Performance

Because unusual items detracted from NSW's earnings over the last year, you could argue that we can expect an improved result in the current quarter. Based on this observation, we consider it likely that NSW's statutory profit actually understates its earnings potential! And on top of that, its earnings per share have grown at 5.6% per year over the last three years. At the end of the day, it's essential to consider more than just the factors above, if you want to understand the company properly. Just as investors must consider earnings, it is also important to take into account the strength of a company's balance sheet. If you're interested we have a graphic representation of NSW's balance sheet.

Today we've zoomed in on a single data point to better understand the nature of NSW's profit. But there are plenty of other ways to inform your opinion of a company. For example, many people consider a high return on equity as an indication of favorable business economics, while others like to 'follow the money' and search out stocks that insiders are buying. While it might take a little research on your behalf, you may find this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks with significant insider holdings to be useful.

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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.