We Think You Can Look Beyond LG H&H's (KRX:051900) Lackluster Earnings

Investors were disappointed with the weak earnings posted by LG H&H Co., Ltd. (KRX:051900 ). However, our analysis suggests that the soft headline numbers are getting counterbalanced by some positive underlying factors.

See our latest analysis for LG H&H

How Do Unusual Items Influence Profit?

To properly understand LG H&H's profit results, we need to consider the ₩139b 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, after all, that's exactly what the accounting terminology implies. Assuming those unusual expenses don't come up again, we'd therefore expect LG H&H to produce a higher profit next year, all else being equal.

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 LG H&H's Profit Performance

Because unusual items detracted from LG H&H'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 LG H&H's statutory profit actually understates its earnings potential! On the other hand, its EPS actually shrunk in the last twelve months. 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. With this in mind, we wouldn't consider investing in a stock unless we had a thorough understanding of the risks. Case in point: We've spotted 1 warning sign for LG H&H you should be aware of.

This note has only looked at a single factor that sheds light on the nature of LG H&H's profit. But there are plenty of other ways to inform your opinion of a company. 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.