China Environmental Technology and Bioenergy Holdings Limited's (HKG:1237) robust earnings report didn't manage to move the market for its stock. Our analysis suggests that this might be because shareholders have noticed some concerning underlying factors.

Check out our latest analysis for China Environmental Technology and Bioenergy Holdings

An Unusual Tax Situation

China Environmental Technology and Bioenergy Holdings reported a tax benefit of CN¥12m, which is well worth noting. It's always a bit noteworthy when a company is paid by the tax man, rather than paying the tax man. Of course, prima facie it's great to receive a tax benefit. And since it previously lost money, it may well simply indicate the realisation of past tax losses. However, our data indicates that tax benefits can temporarily boost statutory profit in the year it is booked, but subsequently profit may fall back. In the likely event the tax benefit is not repeated, we'd expect to see its statutory profit levels drop, at least in the absence of strong growth.

Note: we always recommend investors check balance sheet strength. Click here to be taken to our balance sheet analysis of China Environmental Technology and Bioenergy Holdings.

Our Take On China Environmental Technology and Bioenergy Holdings' Profit Performance

As we have already discussed China Environmental Technology and Bioenergy Holdings reported that it received a tax benefit, rather than paying tax, in the last year. As a result we don't think its profit result, which includes that tax-boost, is a good guide to its sustainable profit levels. Because of this, we think that it may be that China Environmental Technology and Bioenergy Holdings' statutory profits are better than its underlying earnings power. On the bright side, the company showed enough improvement to book a profit this year, after losing money last year. The goal of this article has been to assess how well we can rely on the statutory earnings to reflect the company's potential, but there is plenty more to consider. So while earnings quality is important, it's equally important to consider the risks facing China Environmental Technology and Bioenergy Holdings at this point in time. In terms of investment risks, we've identified 2 warning signs with China Environmental Technology and Bioenergy Holdings, and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

This note has only looked at a single factor that sheds light on the nature of China Environmental Technology and Bioenergy Holdings' profit. But there is always more to discover if you are capable of focussing your mind on minutiae. For example, many people consider a high return on equity as an indication of favorable business economics, while others like to 'follow the money' and search out stocks that insiders are buying. While it might take a little research on your behalf, you may find this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks that insiders are buying to be useful.

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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.