Yahoo Finance If EPS Growth Is Important To You, Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW) Presents An Opportunity
For beginners, it can seem like a good idea (and an exciting prospect) to buy a company that tells a good story to investors, even if it currently lacks a track record of revenue and profit. But the reality is that when a company loses money each year, for long enough, its investors will usually take their share of those losses. A loss-making company is yet to prove itself with profit, and eventually the inflow of external capital may dry up.
If this kind of company isn't your style, you like companies that generate revenue, and even earn profits, then you may well be interested in Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW). Even if this company is fairly valued by the market, investors would agree that generating consistent profits will continue to provide Edwards Lifesciences with the means to add long-term value to shareholders.
See our latest analysis for Edwards Lifesciences
How Fast Is Edwards Lifesciences Growing?
If a company can keep growing earnings per share (EPS) long enough, its share price should eventually follow. So it makes sense that experienced investors pay close attention to company EPS when undertaking investment research. Impressively, Edwards Lifesciences has grown EPS by 27% per year, compound, in the last three years. If growth like this continues on into the future, then shareholders will have plenty to smile about.
It's often helpful to take a look at earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) margins, as well as revenue growth, to get another take on the quality of the company's growth. While we note Edwards Lifesciences achieved similar EBIT margins to last year, revenue grew by a solid 20% to US$5.4b. That's a real positive.
The chart below shows how the company's bottom and top lines have progressed over time. Click on the chart to see the exact numbers.
You don't drive with your eyes on the rear-view mirror, so you might be more interested in this free report showing analyst forecasts for Edwards Lifesciences' future profits.
Are Edwards Lifesciences Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?
Owing to the size of Edwards Lifesciences, we wouldn't expect insiders to hold a significant proportion of the company. But we are reassured by the fact they have invested in the company. Notably, they have an enviable stake in the company, worth US$467m. While that is a lot of skin in the game, we note this holding only totals to 0.8% of the business, which is a result of the company being so large. This should still be a great incentive for management to maximise shareholder value.
Should You Add Edwards Lifesciences To Your Watchlist?
For growth investors, Edwards Lifesciences' raw rate of earnings growth is a beacon in the night. Further, the high level of insider ownership is impressive and suggests that the management appreciates the EPS growth and has faith in Edwards Lifesciences' continuing strength. The growth and insider confidence is looked upon well and so it's worthwhile to investigate further with a view to discern the stock's true value. You should always think about risks though. Case in point, we've spotted 2 warning signs for Edwards Lifesciences you should be aware of.
Although Edwards Lifesciences certainly looks good, it may appeal to more investors if insiders were buying up shares. If you like to see insider buying, then this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying, could be exactly what you're looking for.
Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction.
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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.
