We Think That There Are More Issues For GL-Carlink Technology Holding (HKG:2531) Than Just Sluggish Earnings

Investors were disappointed by GL-Carlink Technology Holding Limited's (HKG:2531 ) latest earnings release. We did some further digging and think they have a few more reasons to be concerned beyond the statutory profit.

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An Unusual Tax Situation

GL-Carlink Technology Holding reported a tax benefit of CN¥5.5m, which is well worth noting. This is meaningful because companies usually pay tax rather than receive tax benefits. Of course, prima facie it's great to receive a tax benefit. However, our data indicates that tax benefits can temporarily boost statutory profit in the year it is booked, but subsequently profit may fall back. In the likely event the tax benefit is not repeated, we'd expect to see its statutory profit levels drop, at least in the absence of strong growth. While we think it's good that the company has booked a tax benefit, it does mean that there's every chance the statutory profit will come in a lot higher than it would be if the income was adjusted for one-off factors.

Note: we always recommend investors check balance sheet strength. Click here to be taken to our balance sheet analysis of GL-Carlink Technology Holding.

Our Take On GL-Carlink Technology Holding's Profit Performance

GL-Carlink Technology Holding reported that it received a tax benefit, rather than paid tax, in its last report. Given that sort of benefit is not recurring, a focus on the statutory profit might make the company seem better than it really is. Therefore, it seems possible to us that GL-Carlink Technology Holding's true underlying earnings power is actually less than its statutory profit. But at least holders can take some solace from the 20% per annum growth in EPS for the last three. Of course, we've only just scratched the surface when it comes to analysing its earnings; one could also consider margins, forecast growth, and return on investment, among other factors. In light of this, if you'd like to do more analysis on the company, it's vital to be informed of the risks involved. When we did our research, we found 2 warning signs for GL-Carlink Technology Holding (1 is a bit unpleasant!) that we believe deserve your full attention.

This note has only looked at a single factor that sheds light on the nature of GL-Carlink Technology Holding's profit. But there are plenty of other ways to inform your opinion of a company. For example, many people consider a high return on equity as an indication of favorable business economics, while others like to 'follow the money' and search out stocks that insiders are buying. So you may wish to see this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks with high insider ownership.

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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.