With a median price-to-sales (or “P/S”) ratio of close to 1.5x in the Chemicals industry in India, you could be forgiven for feeling indifferent about Alkali Metals Limited’s (NSE:ALKALI) P/S ratio, which comes in at about the same. 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.

Check out our latest analysis for Alkali Metals

How Has Alkali Metals Performed Recently?

For example, consider that Alkali Metals’ financial performance has been poor lately as its revenue has been in decline. Perhaps investors believe the recent revenue performance is enough to keep in line with the industry, which is keeping the P/S from dropping off. If you like the company, you’d at least be hoping this is the case so that you could potentially pick up some stock while it’s not quite in favour.

We don’t have analyst forecasts, but you can see how recent trends are setting up the company for the future by checking out our free report on Alkali Metals’ earnings, revenue and cash flow.

Is There Some Revenue Growth Forecasted For Alkali Metals?

There’s an inherent assumption that a company should be matching the industry for P/S ratios like Alkali Metals’ to be considered reasonable.

In reviewing the last year of financials, we were disheartened to see the company’s revenues fell to the tune of 5.0%. Even so, admirably revenue has lifted 51% in aggregate from three years ago, notwithstanding the last 12 months. Accordingly, while they would have preferred to keep the run going, shareholders would definitely welcome the medium-term rates of revenue growth.

Weighing that recent medium-term revenue trajectory against the broader industry’s one-year forecast for expansion of 14% shows it’s about the same on an annualised basis.

With this information, we can see why Alkali Metals is trading at a fairly similar P/S to the industry. 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.

The Key Takeaway

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 Alkali Metals maintains its moderate P/S off the back of its recent three-year growth being in line with the wider industry forecast. With previous revenue trends that keep up with the current industry outlook, it’s hard to justify the company’s P/S ratio deviating much from it’s current point. If recent medium-term revenue trends continue, it’s hard to see the share price moving strongly in either direction in the near future under these circumstances.

You always need to take note of risks, for example – Alkali Metals has 4 warning signs we think you should be aware of.

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.