Tianjin Troila Information Technology Co.,Ltd.'s (SHSE:600225) price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 29.8x might make it look like a buy right now compared to the market in China, where around half of the companies have P/E ratios above 35x and even P/E's above 64x 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 limited.

For example, consider that Tianjin Troila Information TechnologyLtd's financial performance has been poor lately as its earnings have been in decline. It might be that many expect the disappointing earnings performance to continue or accelerate, which has repressed the P/E. If you like the company, you'd be hoping this isn't the case so that you could potentially pick up some stock while it's out of favour.

View our latest analysis for Tianjin Troila Information TechnologyLtd

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Does Growth Match The Low P/E?

In order to justify its P/E ratio, Tianjin Troila Information TechnologyLtd would need to produce sluggish growth that's trailing the market.

Retrospectively, the last year delivered a frustrating 59% decrease to the company's bottom line. This has erased any of its gains during the last three years, with practically no change in EPS being achieved in total. Therefore, it's fair to say that earnings growth has been inconsistent recently for the company.

This is in contrast to the rest of the market, which is expected to grow by 44% over the next year, materially higher than the company's recent medium-term annualised growth rates.

With this information, we can see why Tianjin Troila Information TechnologyLtd is trading at a P/E lower than the market. Apparently many shareholders weren't comfortable holding on to something they believe will continue to trail the bourse.

The Bottom Line On Tianjin Troila Information TechnologyLtd's P/E

It's argued the price-to-earnings ratio is an inferior measure of value within certain industries, but it can be a powerful business sentiment indicator.

We've established that Tianjin Troila Information TechnologyLtd maintains its low P/E on the weakness of its recent three-year growth being lower than the wider market forecast, as expected. Right now shareholders are accepting the low P/E as they concede future earnings probably won't provide any pleasant surprises. Unless the recent medium-term conditions improve, they will continue to form a barrier for the share price around these levels.

You always need to take note of risks, for example - Tianjin Troila Information TechnologyLtd has 3 warning signs we think you should be aware of.

If these risks are making you reconsider your opinion on Tianjin Troila Information TechnologyLtd, explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there.

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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.