Stock Analysis

The Market Lifts Spire Global, Inc. (NYSE:SPIR) Shares 33% But It Can Do More

NYSE:SPIR
Source: Shutterstock

Those holding Spire Global, Inc. (NYSE:SPIR) shares would be relieved that the share price has rebounded 33% in the last thirty days, but it needs to keep going to repair the recent damage it has caused to investor portfolios. Still, the 30-day jump doesn't change the fact that longer term shareholders have seen their stock decimated by the 57% share price drop in the last twelve months.

Although its price has surged higher, there still wouldn't be many who think Spire Global's price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of 1x is worth a mention when the median P/S in the United States' Professional Services industry is similar at about 1.2x. However, investors might be overlooking a clear opportunity or potential setback if there is no rational basis for the P/S.

See our latest analysis for Spire Global

ps-multiple-vs-industry
NYSE:SPIR Price to Sales Ratio vs Industry November 16th 2023

How Spire Global Has Been Performing

With revenue growth that's superior to most other companies of late, Spire Global has been doing relatively well. Perhaps the market is expecting this level of performance to taper off, keeping the P/S from soaring. If not, then existing shareholders have reason to be feeling optimistic about the future direction of the share price.

Want the full picture on analyst estimates for the company? Then our free report on Spire Global will help you uncover what's on the horizon.

Do Revenue Forecasts Match The P/S Ratio?

There's an inherent assumption that a company should be matching the industry for P/S ratios like Spire Global's to be considered reasonable.

If we review the last year of revenue growth, the company posted a terrific increase of 38%. The strong recent performance means it was also able to grow revenue by 252% in total over the last three years. Therefore, it's fair to say the revenue growth recently has been superb for the company.

Looking ahead now, revenue is anticipated to climb by 33% during the coming year according to the five analysts following the company. That's shaping up to be materially higher than the 6.9% growth forecast for the broader industry.

With this in consideration, we find it intriguing that Spire Global's P/S is closely matching its industry peers. It may be that most investors aren't convinced the company can achieve future growth expectations.

The Final Word

Spire Global appears to be back in favour with a solid price jump bringing its P/S back in line with other companies in the industry Typically, we'd caution against reading too much into price-to-sales ratios when settling on investment decisions, though it can reveal plenty about what other market participants think about the company.

We've established that Spire Global currently trades on a lower than expected P/S since its forecasted revenue growth is higher than the wider industry. Perhaps uncertainty in the revenue forecasts are what's keeping the P/S ratio consistent with the rest of the industry. This uncertainty seems to be reflected in the share price which, while stable, could be higher given the revenue forecasts.

It is also worth noting that we have found 3 warning signs for Spire Global that you need to take into consideration.

If strong companies turning a profit tickle your fancy, then you'll want to check out this free list of interesting companies that trade on a low P/E (but have proven they can grow earnings).

New: Manage All Your Stock Portfolios in One Place

We've created the ultimate portfolio companion for stock investors, and it's free.

• Connect an unlimited number of Portfolios and see your total in one currency
• Be alerted to new Warning Signs or Risks via email or mobile
• Track the Fair Value of your stocks

Try a Demo Portfolio for Free

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

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.