With a median price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of close to 0.6x in the Media industry in Australia, you could be forgiven for feeling indifferent about Aspermont Limited's (ASX:ASP) P/S ratio of 0.8x. However, investors might be overlooking a clear opportunity or potential setback if there is no rational basis for the P/S.

See our latest analysis for Aspermont

How Aspermont Has Been Performing

Aspermont has been struggling lately as its revenue has declined faster than most other companies. It might be that many expect the dismal revenue performance to revert back to industry averages soon, which has kept the P/S from falling. You'd much rather the company improve its revenue if you still believe in the business. Or at the very least, you'd be hoping it doesn't keep underperforming if your plan is to pick up some stock while it's not in favour.

Want the full picture on analyst estimates for the company? Then our free report on Aspermont will help you uncover what's on the horizon.

Is There Some Revenue Growth Forecasted For Aspermont?

Aspermont's P/S ratio would be typical for a company that's only expected to deliver moderate growth, and importantly, perform in line with the industry.

In reviewing the last year of financials, we were disheartened to see the company's revenues fell to the tune of 9.2%. This has soured the latest three-year period, which nevertheless managed to deliver a decent 8.9% overall rise in revenue. Although it's been a bumpy ride, it's still fair to say the revenue growth recently has been mostly respectable for the company.

Shifting to the future, estimates from the one analyst covering the company suggest revenue should grow by 12% each year over the next three years. Meanwhile, the rest of the industry is forecast to only expand by 2.5% per year, which is noticeably less attractive.

With this in consideration, we find it intriguing that Aspermont's P/S is closely matching its industry peers. It may be that most investors aren't convinced the company can achieve future growth expectations.

The Final Word

While the price-to-sales ratio shouldn't be the defining factor in whether you buy a stock or not, it's quite a capable barometer of revenue expectations.

Looking at Aspermont's analyst forecasts revealed that its superior revenue outlook isn't giving the boost to its P/S that we would've expected. When we see a strong revenue outlook, with growth outpacing the industry, we can only assume potential uncertainty around these figures are what might be placing slight pressure on the P/S ratio. This uncertainty seems to be reflected in the share price which, while stable, could be higher given the revenue forecasts.

And what about other risks? Every company has them, and we've spotted 2 warning signs for Aspermont (of which 1 can't be ignored!) you should know about.

Of course, profitable companies with a history of great earnings growth are generally safer bets. So you may wish to see this free collection of other companies that have reasonable P/E ratios and have grown earnings strongly.

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.