Advertisement
New Zealand markets closed
  • NZX 50

    11,805.09
    -141.34 (-1.18%)
     
  • NZD/USD

    0.5966
    +0.0017 (+0.28%)
     
  • NZD/EUR

    0.5552
    +0.0012 (+0.21%)
     
  • ALL ORDS

    7,837.40
    -100.10 (-1.26%)
     
  • ASX 200

    7,575.90
    -107.10 (-1.39%)
     
  • OIL

    84.07
    +0.50 (+0.60%)
     
  • GOLD

    2,358.80
    +16.30 (+0.70%)
     
  • NASDAQ

    17,430.50
    -96.30 (-0.55%)
     
  • FTSE

    8,121.73
    +42.87 (+0.53%)
     
  • Dow Jones

    38,085.80
    -375.12 (-0.98%)
     
  • DAX

    18,029.29
    +112.01 (+0.63%)
     
  • Hang Seng

    17,675.82
    +391.28 (+2.26%)
     
  • NIKKEI 225

    37,934.76
    +306.28 (+0.81%)
     
  • NZD/JPY

    93.2270
    +0.7310 (+0.79%)
     

Here's Why We Think ASML Holding (AMS:ASML) Might Deserve Your Attention Today

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. Sometimes these stories can cloud the minds of investors, leading them to invest with their emotions rather than on the merit of good company fundamentals. Loss making companies can act like a sponge for capital - so investors should be cautious that they're not throwing good money after bad.

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 ASML Holding (AMS:ASML). Now this is not to say that the company presents the best investment opportunity around, but profitability is a key component to success in business.

See our latest analysis for ASML Holding

ASML Holding's Earnings Per Share Are Growing

Generally, companies experiencing growth in earnings per share (EPS) should see similar trends in share price. That means EPS growth is considered a real positive by most successful long-term investors. To the delight of shareholders, ASML Holding has achieved impressive annual EPS growth of 41%, compound, over the last three years. That sort of growth rarely ever lasts long, but it is well worth paying attention to when it happens.

ADVERTISEMENT

Top-line growth is a great indicator that growth is sustainable, and combined with a high earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) margin, it's a great way for a company to maintain a competitive advantage in the market. While we note ASML Holding achieved similar EBIT margins to last year, revenue grew by a solid 37% to €24b. That's a real positive.

In the chart below, you can see how the company has grown earnings and revenue, over time. For finer detail, click on the image.

earnings-and-revenue-history
earnings-and-revenue-history

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 ASML Holding's future profits.

Are ASML Holding Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?

Owing to the size of ASML Holding, 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. With a whopping €55m worth of shares as a group, insiders have plenty riding on the company's success. This should keep them focused on creating long term value for shareholders.

Is ASML Holding Worth Keeping An Eye On?

ASML Holding's earnings per share have been soaring, with growth rates sky high. That sort of growth is nothing short of eye-catching, and the large investment held by insiders should certainly brighten the view of the company. The hope is, of course, that the strong growth marks a fundamental improvement in the business economics. So based on this quick analysis, we do think it's worth considering ASML Holding for a spot on your watchlist. However, before you get too excited we've discovered 1 warning sign for ASML Holding that you should be aware of.

Although ASML Holding 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.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.

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.

Join A Paid User Research Session
You’ll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here