With a median price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of close to 19x in Australia, you could be forgiven for feeling indifferent about Matrix Composites & Engineering Ltd's (ASX:MCE) P/E ratio of 17.8x. While this might not raise any eyebrows, if the P/E ratio is not justified investors could be missing out on a potential opportunity or ignoring looming disappointment.

Matrix Composites & Engineering could be doing better as its earnings have been going backwards lately while most other companies have been seeing positive earnings growth. One possibility is that the P/E is moderate because investors think this poor earnings performance will turn around. If not, then existing shareholders may be a little nervous about the viability of the share price.

See our latest analysis for Matrix Composites & Engineering

Keen to find out how analysts think Matrix Composites & Engineering's future stacks up against the industry? In that case, our free report is a great place to start.

How Is Matrix Composites & Engineering's Growth Trending?

There's an inherent assumption that a company should be matching the market for P/E ratios like Matrix Composites & Engineering's to be considered reasonable.

Taking a look back first, the company's earnings per share growth last year wasn't something to get excited about as it posted a disappointing decline of 68%. This has erased any of its gains during the last three years, with practically no change in EPS being achieved in total. Therefore, it's fair to say that earnings growth has been inconsistent recently for the company.

Looking ahead now, EPS is anticipated to climb by 20% per year during the coming three years according to the dual analysts following the company. With the market predicted to deliver 19% growth per annum, the company is positioned for a comparable earnings result.

In light of this, it's understandable that Matrix Composites & Engineering's P/E sits in line with the majority of other companies. It seems most investors are expecting to see average future growth and are only willing to pay a moderate amount for the stock.

What We Can Learn From Matrix Composites & Engineering's P/E?

Using the price-to-earnings ratio alone to determine if you should sell your stock isn't sensible, however it can be a practical guide to the company's future prospects.

As we suspected, our examination of Matrix Composites & Engineering's analyst forecasts revealed that its market-matching earnings outlook is contributing to its current P/E. At this stage investors feel the potential for an improvement or deterioration in earnings isn't great enough to justify a high or low P/E ratio. Unless these conditions change, they will continue to support the share price at these levels.

Before you take the next step, you should know about the 2 warning signs for Matrix Composites & Engineering that we have uncovered.

Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking at a few good candidates. So take a peek at this free list of companies with a strong growth track record, trading on a low P/E.

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.