S.C. Tusnad S.A.'s (BVB:TSND) price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 21.8x might make it look like a strong sell right now compared to the market in Romania, where around half of the companies have P/E ratios below 12x and even P/E's below 7x are quite common. Although, it's not wise to just take the P/E at face value as there may be an explanation why it's so lofty.
The earnings growth achieved at S.C. Tusnad over the last year would be more than acceptable for most companies. One possibility is that the P/E is high because investors think this respectable earnings growth will be enough to outperform the broader market in the near future. If not, then existing shareholders may be a little nervous about the viability of the share price.
Check out our latest analysis for S.C. Tusnad
Although there are no analyst estimates available for S.C. Tusnad, take a look at this free data-rich visualisation to see how the company stacks up on earnings, revenue and cash flow.Is There Enough Growth For S.C. Tusnad?
There's an inherent assumption that a company should far outperform the market for P/E ratios like S.C. Tusnad's to be considered reasonable.
Retrospectively, the last year delivered an exceptional 23% gain to the company's bottom line. Still, EPS has barely risen at all from three years ago in total, which is not ideal. So it appears to us that the company has had a mixed result in terms of growing earnings over that time.
Weighing the recent medium-term upward earnings trajectory against the broader market's one-year forecast for contraction of 5.1% shows it's a great look while it lasts.
With this information, we can see why S.C. Tusnad is trading at a high P/E compared to the market. Investors are willing to pay more for a stock they hope will buck the trend of the broader market going backwards. Nonetheless, with most other businesses facing an uphill battle, staying on its current earnings path is no certainty.
The Bottom Line On S.C. Tusnad's P/E
Using the price-to-earnings ratio alone to determine if you should sell your stock isn't sensible, however it can be a practical guide to the company's future prospects.
We've established that S.C. Tusnad maintains its high P/E on the strength of its recentthree-year growth beating forecasts for a struggling market, as expected. Right now shareholders are comfortable with the P/E as they are quite confident earnings aren't under threat. We still remain cautious about the company's ability to stay its recent course and swim against the current of the broader market turmoil. Although, if the company's relative performance doesn't change it will continue to provide strong support to the share price.
You always need to take note of risks, for example - S.C. Tusnad has 2 warning signs we think you should be aware of.
If P/E ratios interest you, 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 BVB:TSND
S.C. Tusnad
Provides accommodation services in hotels and other related facilities.
Flawless balance sheet slight.