We are now over halfway through reporting season and there have been a lot of reports that have met expectations, but there are a few that I thought were disappointing.
Disappointing results
Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP) reported that underlying earnings per share (EPS) grew by 5.8% and revenue grew 5.2%.
This was a big slowdown compared to previous years and sadly justifies the fall in share price from $80 to the $40s. Domino's has a good long-term plan but this rapid slowdown wasn't expected.
Domino's is still trading at an expensive earnings multiple, so it will have to deliver in the second half to avoid further falls.
Healthscope Ltd (ASX: HSO) reported a further fall in profit for various reasons. The private hospital operator may have a long-term tailwind but shareholders also want to see short-term results too.
Management point to revenue growth as progress, which it is. Revenue growth should help profit growth, profit growth is what shareholders need and want to see. Ultimately, everything a business does should aim to help the earnings per share and the strength of the balance sheet.
Healthscope will need to turn profit decline into profit growth quickly.
Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH) is one of Australia's leading businesses and has done excellently over the past few years.
However, no business is worth any price. I thought it was quite disappointing that statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) declined by 1%, yet the business is trading at almost 40x FY18's estimated earnings.
Cochlear will have to generate good earnings growth over the next year to justify its high price tag.
Foolish takeaway
All three businesses could improve profit soon, which is why I was disappointed with the reports this time. They could turn into good buys, but I wouldn't want to make that bet at the current prices.
