Investors signalled that they were pleased with Chart Industries, Inc.'s (NYSE:GTLS) most recent earnings report. This reaction by the market reaction is understandable when looking at headline profits and we have found some further encouraging factors.

How Do Unusual Items Influence Profit?

Importantly, our data indicates that Chart Industries' profit was reduced by US$82m, due to unusual items, over the last year. While deductions due to unusual items are disappointing in the first instance, there is a silver lining. When we analysed the vast majority of listed companies worldwide, we found that significant unusual items are often not repeated. And, after all, that's exactly what the accounting terminology implies. If Chart Industries doesn't see those unusual expenses repeat, then all else being equal we'd expect its profit to increase over the coming year.

That might leave you wondering what analysts are forecasting in terms of future profitability. Luckily, you can click here to see an interactive graph depicting future profitability, based on their estimates.

Our Take On Chart Industries' Profit Performance

Unusual items (expenses) detracted from Chart Industries' earnings over the last year, but we might see an improvement next year. Because of this, we think Chart Industries' earnings potential is at least as good as it seems, and maybe even better! On the other hand, its EPS actually shrunk in the last twelve months. 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. If you'd like to know more about Chart Industries as a business, it's important to be aware of any risks it's facing. For instance, we've identified 3 warning signs for Chart Industries (1 is significant) you should be familiar with.

Today we've zoomed in on a single data point to better understand the nature of Chart Industries' profit. But there is always more to discover if you are capable of focussing your mind on minutiae. Some people consider a high return on equity to be a good sign of a quality business. So you may wish to see this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks that insiders are buying.

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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.