
Demystifying ROE: A Comprehensive Guide to Evaluating Corporate Profitability for Savvy Investors
IntroductionReturn on Equity (ROE) is a cornerstone metric for assessing a company’s profitability and operational efficiency. While its formula—Net Income ÷ Shareholders’ Equity—appears simple, nuanced interpretations and adjustments are critical for accurate analysis. This guide breaks down traditional and refined ROE calculations, explores their implications, and reveals how to avoid common pitfalls when using ROE in investment decisions. I. Traditional ROE Calculations 1. Basic ROE Formula ROE = Net Income ÷ Shareholders’ Equity Key Insights: Warren Buffett’s criterion—20%+ sustainable ROE—highlights the importance of consistency. Avoid firms with sub-10% ROE over 5–10 years. 2. ROE via Earnings Per Share (EPS) & Book Value Per Share (BVPS) ROE = (EPS ÷ BVPS)Five Pathways to Boost ROE: Takeaway: High ROE alone is insufficient;...