Finding a great growth stock can be a tough task. Not only are there a wide range of choices, but the space can be extremely volatile and fraught with risk as well. But thanks to our new style score systemwe have been able to identify a few growth stocks which have incredible potential in the near term.
One such company that stands out in this regard is undoubtedly China Lodging Group, Limited HTHT.Not only does this company have a favorable growth score, but it is ranked as a buy too. And while there are numerous reasons why HTHT is so attractive right now, we have highlighted three of the most important—and pertinent to growth investors—below:
Earnings Growth for HTHT
Arguably nothing is more important than earnings growth as surging profit levels is what most investors are after. And for growth investors, earnings growth in the double digits is definitely necessary and it is often an indication of strong prospects (and stock price gains) ahead for the company in question.
While HTHT has put up a historical EPS growth rate of 70.59%, investors should really focus on the projected growth. Here, HTHT is looking to grow at a rate of 65.71%, thoroughly crushing the industry average which calls for EPS growth of just 19.0%in comparison.
Cash Flow Growth for HTHT
Cash is the lifeblood of any business, but especially so for growth oriented companies. A positive figure here indicates that cash is flowing into the business (obviously a good thing), while a negative reading here means that net cash is exiting the company.
Right now, HTHT’s current cash flow growth is an impressive 19.8%, a level that is far higher than many of its peers, and the industry average. In fact, the industry average sees cash flow growth of just 4.3% in comparison, suggesting that HTHT is a better pick from a cash flow look.
HTHT Earnings Estimate Revisions Moving in the Right Direction
If the metrics outlined above weren’t enough investors should also consider the positive trends that we are seeing on the analyst estimate revision front. Analysts have been raising their estimates for China Lodging lately, and now the earnings picture is looking a bit more favorable for the company.
Over the past 60 days, 2 EPS estimates have been revised higher compared to none lower, at least for the current year time frame. And the magnitude of these revisions has also been impressive, as the consensus estimate for the full year has surged from $1.48 per share to $1.74 per share today.
Bottom Line
For the reasons outlined above, investors shouldn’t be surprised to note that China Lodging has earned itself a growth score of ‘B’ as well as a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
This means that we believe China Lodging stock is a potential outperformer that is an impressive choice for growth investors, making it a security that you need to keep on your radar in the near term.
Confidential from Zacks
Beyond this Tale of the Tape, would you like to see Zacks' best recommendations that are not available to the public? Our Executive VP, Steve Reitmeister, knows when key trades are about to be triggered and which of our experts has the hottest hand. Click to see them now>>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
Be the first to comment