We didn't see Sinolink Worldwide Holdings Limited's (HKG:1168) stock surge when it reported robust earnings recently. We think that investors might be worried about the foundations the earnings are built on.

Check out our latest analysis for Sinolink Worldwide Holdings

Operating Revenue Or Not?

Companies will classify their revenue streams as either operating revenue or other revenue. Where possible, we prefer rely on operating revenue to get a better understanding of how the business is functioning. Importantly, the non-operating revenue often comes without associated ongoing costs, so it can boost profit by letting it fall straight to the bottom line, making the operating business seem better than it really is. It's worth noting that Sinolink Worldwide Holdings saw a big increase in non-operating revenue over the last year. Indeed, its non-operating revenue rose from HK$26.3m last year to HK$104.2m this year. If that non-operating revenue fails to manifest in the current year, then there's a real risk the bottom line profit result will be impacted negatively. Sometimes, you can get a better idea of the underlying earnings potential of a company by excluding unusual boosts to non-operating revenue.

Note: we always recommend investors check balance sheet strength. Click here to be taken to our balance sheet analysis of Sinolink Worldwide Holdings.

The Impact Of Unusual Items On Profit

As well as that spike in non-operating revenue, we should also consider the HK$549m boost to profit coming from unusual items, over the last year. We can't deny that higher profits generally leave us optimistic, but we'd prefer it if the profit were to be sustainable. When we analysed the vast majority of listed companies worldwide, we found that significant unusual items are often not repeated. Which is hardly surprising, given the name. We can see that Sinolink Worldwide Holdings' positive unusual items were quite significant relative to its profit in the year to June 2022. As a result, we can surmise that the unusual items are making its statutory profit significantly stronger than it would otherwise be.

Our Take On Sinolink Worldwide Holdings' Profit Performance

In the last year Sinolink Worldwide Holdings' non-operating revenue really gave it a boost, but not in a way that is necessarily going to be sustained. Furthermore, unusual items also made a nice positive contribution to its profit, which may well drop next year (all else being equal) if these phenomena are not repeated. For all the reasons mentioned above, we think that, at a glance, Sinolink Worldwide Holdings' statutory profits could be considered to be low quality, because they are likely to give investors an overly positive impression of the company. Keep in mind, when it comes to analysing a stock it's worth noting the risks involved. For example - Sinolink Worldwide Holdings has 1 warning sign we think you should be aware of.

Our examination of Sinolink Worldwide Holdings has focussed on certain factors that can make its earnings look better than they are. And, on that basis, we are somewhat skeptical. 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. 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.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.
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.