With a median price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of close to 0.6x in the Professional Services industry in Hong Kong, you could be forgiven for feeling indifferent about King Of Catering (Global) Holdings Ltd.'s (HKG:8619) P/S ratio of 0.5x. 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 King Of Catering (Global) Holdings
The revenue growth achieved at King Of Catering (Global) Holdings over the last year would be more than acceptable for most companies. It might be that many expect the respectable revenue performance to wane, which has kept the P/S from rising. Those who are bullish on King Of Catering (Global) Holdings will be hoping that this isn't the case, so that they can pick up the stock at a lower valuation.
Want the full picture on earnings, revenue and cash flow for the company? Then our free report on King Of Catering (Global) Holdings will help you shine a light on its historical performance.The only time you'd be comfortable seeing a P/S like King Of Catering (Global) Holdings' is when the company's growth is tracking the industry closely.
If we review the last year of revenue growth, the company posted a terrific increase of 17%. The strong recent performance means it was also able to grow revenue by 41% in total over the last three years. Therefore, it's fair to say the revenue growth recently has been superb for the company.
Weighing that recent medium-term revenue trajectory against the broader industry's one-year forecast for expansion of 11% shows it's about the same on an annualised basis.
In light of this, it's understandable that King Of Catering (Global) Holdings' P/S sits in line with the majority of other companies. It seems most investors are expecting to see average growth rates continue into the future and are only willing to pay a moderate amount for the stock.
We'd say the price-to-sales ratio's power isn't primarily as a valuation instrument but rather to gauge current investor sentiment and future expectations.
It appears to us that King Of Catering (Global) Holdings maintains its moderate P/S off the back of its recent three-year growth being in line with the wider industry forecast. Currently, with a past revenue trend that aligns closely wit the industry outlook, shareholders are confident the company's future revenue outlook won't contain any major surprises. Unless the recent medium-term conditions change, they will continue to support the share price at these levels.
Plus, you should also learn about these 3 warning signs we've spotted with King Of Catering (Global) Holdings (including 2 which can't be ignored).
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).
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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.
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