Here’s Why We Think Perseus Mining (ASX:PRU) Is Well Worth Watching

The excitement of investing in a company that can reverse its fortunes is a big draw for some speculators, so even companies that have no revenue, no profit, and a record of falling short, can manage to find investors. 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. A loss-making company is yet to prove itself with profit, and eventually the inflow of external capital may dry up.

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 Perseus Mining (ASX:PRU). While this doesn’t necessarily speak to whether it’s undervalued, the profitability of the business is enough to warrant some appreciation – especially if its growing.

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How Quickly Is Perseus Mining Increasing Earnings Per Share?

If you believe that markets are even vaguely efficient, then over the long term you’d expect a company’s share price to follow its earnings per share (EPS) outcomes. That means EPS growth is considered a real positive by most successful long-term investors. It certainly is nice to see that Perseus Mining has managed to grow EPS by 28% per year over three years. As a general rule, we’d say that if a company can keep up that sort of growth, shareholders will be beaming.

It’s often helpful to take a look at earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) margins, as well as revenue growth, to get another take on the quality of the company’s growth. EBIT margins for Perseus Mining remained fairly unchanged over the last year, however the company should be pleased to report its revenue growth for the period of 22% to US$1.2b. That’s encouraging news for the company!

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

View our latest analysis for Perseus Mining

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 Perseus Mining’s future profits.

Are Perseus Mining Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?

It’s pleasing to see company leaders with putting their money on the line, so to speak, because it increases alignment of incentives between the people running the business, and its true owners. Shareholders will be pleased by the fact that insiders own Perseus Mining shares worth a considerable sum. As a matter of fact, their holding is valued at US$26m. This considerable investment should help drive long-term value in the business. Even though that’s only about 0.4% of the company, it’s enough money to indicate alignment between the leaders of the business and ordinary shareholders.

Is Perseus Mining Worth Keeping An Eye On?

For growth investors, Perseus Mining’s raw rate of earnings growth is a beacon in the night. With EPS growth rates like that, it’s hardly surprising to see company higher-ups place confidence in the company through continuing to hold a significant investment. On the balance of its merits, solid EPS growth and company insiders who are aligned with the shareholders would indicate a business that is worthy of further research. What about risks? Every company has them, and we’ve spotted 1 warning sign for Perseus Mining you should know about.

Although Perseus Mining certainly looks good, it may appeal to more investors if insiders were buying up shares. If you like to see companies with more skin in the game, then check out this handpicked selection of Australian companies that not only boast of strong growth but have strong insider backing.

Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction.

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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.