Unpleasant Surprises Could Be In Store For JD.com, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:JD) Shares

NASDAQ:JD) price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 32.8x might make it look like a strong sell right now compared to the market in the United States, where around half of the companies have P/E ratios below 19x and even P/E’s below 10x 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.” data-reactid=”28″>JD.com, Inc.’s (NASDAQ:JD) price-to-earnings (or “P/E”) ratio of 32.8x might make it look like a strong sell right now compared to the market in the United States, where around half of the companies have P/E ratios below 19x and even P/E’s below 10x 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.

JD.com certainly has been doing a good job lately as its earnings growth has been positive while most other companies have been seeing their earnings go backwards. The P/E is probably high because investors think the company will continue to navigate the broader market headwinds better than most. If not, then existing shareholders might be a little nervous about the viability of the share price.

See our latest analysis for JD.com ” data-reactid=”30″> See our latest analysis for JD.com

free report on JD.com will help you uncover what’s on the horizon.” data-reactid=”47″>Want the full picture on analyst estimates for the company? Then our free report on JD.com will help you uncover what’s on the horizon.

How Is JD.com’s Growth Trending?

In order to justify its P/E ratio, JD.com would need to produce outstanding growth well in excess of the market.

Taking a look back first, we see that the company grew earnings per share by an impressive 252% last year. Although, its longer-term performance hasn’t been as strong with three-year EPS growth being relatively non-existent overall. Therefore, it’s fair to say that earnings growth has been inconsistent recently for the company.

Shifting to the future, estimates from the analysts covering the company suggest earnings should grow by 4.7% each year over the next three years. That’s shaping up to be materially lower than the 13% per year growth forecast for the broader market.

With this information, we find it concerning that JD.com is trading at a P/E higher than the market. Apparently many investors in the company are way more bullish than analysts indicate and aren’t willing to let go of their stock at any price. Only the boldest would assume these prices are sustainable as this level of earnings growth is likely to weigh heavily on the share price eventually.

What We Can Learn From JD.com’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.

Our examination of JD.com’s analyst forecasts revealed that its inferior earnings outlook isn’t impacting its high P/E anywhere near as much as we would have predicted. Right now we are increasingly uncomfortable with the high P/E as the predicted future earnings aren’t likely to support such positive sentiment for long. Unless these conditions improve markedly, it’s very challenging to accept these prices as being reasonable.

3 warning signs for JD.com that you should be aware of.” data-reactid=”56″>Don’t forget that there may be other risks. For instance, we’ve identified 3 warning signs for JD.com that you should be aware of.

list of interesting companies that trade on a P/E below 20x (but have proven they can grow earnings).” data-reactid=”57″>You might be able to find a better investment than JD.com. If you want a selection of possible candidates, check out this free list of interesting companies that trade on a P/E below 20x (but have proven they can grow earnings).

Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email [email protected].” data-reactid=”58″>This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. 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.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email [email protected].