Stock Analysis

Pulmonx Corporation (NASDAQ:LUNG) Stock's 26% Dive Might Signal An Opportunity But It Requires Some Scrutiny

NasdaqGS:LUNG
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Unfortunately for some shareholders, the Pulmonx Corporation (NASDAQ:LUNG) share price has dived 26% in the last thirty days, prolonging recent pain. The drop over the last 30 days has capped off a tough year for shareholders, with the share price down 46% in that time.

Although its price has dipped substantially, it's still not a stretch to say that Pulmonx's price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of 2.9x right now seems quite "middle-of-the-road" compared to the Medical Equipment industry in the United States, seeing as it matches the P/S ratio of the wider industry. While this might not raise any eyebrows, if the P/S ratio is not justified investors could be missing out on a potential opportunity or ignoring looming disappointment.

See our latest analysis for Pulmonx

ps-multiple-vs-industry
NasdaqGS:LUNG Price to Sales Ratio vs Industry August 15th 2024

How Has Pulmonx Performed Recently?

With revenue growth that's superior to most other companies of late, Pulmonx has been doing relatively well. It might be that many expect the strong revenue performance to wane, which has kept the P/S ratio from rising. If the company manages to stay the course, then investors should be rewarded with a share price that matches its revenue figures.

Keen to find out how analysts think Pulmonx's future stacks up against the industry? In that case, our free report is a great place to start.

How Is Pulmonx's Revenue Growth Trending?

Pulmonx's P/S ratio would be typical for a company that's only expected to deliver moderate growth, and importantly, perform in line with the industry.

Taking a look back first, we see that the company grew revenue by an impressive 26% last year. The latest three year period has also seen an excellent 83% overall rise in revenue, aided by its short-term performance. So we can start by confirming that the company has done a great job of growing revenue over that time.

Shifting to the future, estimates from the six analysts covering the company suggest revenue should grow by 20% per annum over the next three years. With the industry only predicted to deliver 9.6% per annum, the company is positioned for a stronger revenue result.

In light of this, it's curious that Pulmonx's P/S sits in line with the majority of other companies. Apparently some shareholders are skeptical of the forecasts and have been accepting lower selling prices.

The Bottom Line On Pulmonx's P/S

Following Pulmonx's share price tumble, its P/S is just clinging on to the industry median P/S. Generally, our preference is to limit the use of the price-to-sales ratio to establishing what the market thinks about the overall health of a company.

We've established that Pulmonx 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. However, if you agree with the analysts' forecasts, you may be able to pick up the stock at an attractive price.

Plus, you should also learn about these 3 warning signs we've spotted with Pulmonx.

If companies with solid past earnings growth is up your alley, 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.