   
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
A trailing PE is a price-earnings ratio based on the most recent 12 months' results. U.S. companies report quarterly, so a trailing PE is computed based on the most recent four quarters. For example, if the stock price is 20, and quarterly earnings were $.50, $.30, $.90, and $.30 - or $2.00 total - the trailing PE is 20/2, or 10. A trailing PE is used instead of fiscal-year earnings because a trailing PE is more current. For example, if the date is December 30, 2XX2, the most recent fiscal-year earnings are likely for the year ended December 31, 2XX1 - nearly one year ago. Notably, the trailing PE is used in stock tables, like those in the Wall Street Journal. But a trailing PE is still an historical number that reflects past performance. In addition to the trailing PE, investors will ordinarily look at prospective (or "forward") PEs as well, which are based on analyst estimates of future earnings.
Rate this trailing PE definition...
|
|
|
|
 |
Where is the market headed? The answer may surprise you. Find out
with the exclusive & Barron's recommended charts of Chart of the Day. |
|
Popular Terms: in escrow, stock split, deferred revenue, implied volatility, cancelled check, FICO score, wholly-owned subsidiary, required rate of return, phantom income, 401a, risk management, average price per share, annual return, margin rate, 144a, ex-dividend, 1031 exchange, ex-dividend date, class C shares, covered put, liquidity ratio, retained earnings, debt service coverage, VIX, current ratio, open position, diluted share, option premium, balance sheet, limit order, deferred tax, inflation, reverse mortgage, 1035 exchange, FTSE, LIBOR, per diem, dividends payable, stock market close, irrevocable trust, Key Rate Duration, APR, real GDP, EBITDA, minority interest, labor relations, Zero Cost Collar, quality assurance, command economy
|
|
| |
