A quality business can usually do things better or more efficiently than the rest. It might have a superior product, a stronger brand, or a cost advantage of some sort.
Healthy and growing profit margins, along with high returns on capital invested are signs of a company with a competitive edge.
Debt isn't a bad thing, but it must be kept in check. Excessive debt can leave a company vulnerable to a downturn, falling earnings or a tightening of financial conditions.
Companies with more stable earnings (such as infrastructure and real estate businesses) can tolerate higher debt levels than those which face higher competition or are more economically sensitive.
Watch debt ratios and look at the maturity profile of borrowings, as well as any covenants.
A sustainable, growing dividend.
Many investors are focused on capital growth, but we shouldn't underestimate the importance of stocks that pay you to own them.
Mark Lister says what we should look for in a stock. Photo / Getty Images
In New Zealand, dividends have accounted for over 60 per cent of returns over the past 25 years. Australia isn't far behind at almost 50 per cent and even worldwide, dividends have accounted for more than 30 per cent of returns.
However, don't simply opt for the highest yield. You're really buying a growing income stream, not just this year's dividend.
There is little point in buying a company that has no growth options beyond its existing business. A good business will have the potential to grow by expanding its product range, gaining new customers or growing its market.
Look for a company that reinvests a portion of its profits in opportunities that lead to higher future earnings (and dividends).
Strong cash flows.
Cash flow is the lifeblood of a business, and most analysts value companies by estimating the future cash flows they will generate in the future.
Keep an eye on the cash flow statement and take note of how these compare with headline profits.
Competent leadership.
It's hard to measure but the quality, experience and integrity of a company's board of directors and management team is very important.
Look for leaders with a clear strategy, who are focused on delivering returns, who treat shareholders (including smaller ones) with respect and who have skin in the game.
Directors should have a range of skills, and it's crucial that a few have relevant industry experience.
A reasonable valuation.
A key driver of your future returns will be the price you've paid, and even the best business can become a poor investment if that starting point is too high.
Valuing shares is an art, as much as a science. Professional investors use discounted cash flow modelling while looking at earnings ratios and comparing them to peers, the broader market, and its own historical average.
This is far from an exhaustive list, although the points made here cover some of the most important attributes investors should look for when identifying quality businesses.
Other factors to consider include the quality of assets, whether the company operates in a sustainable manner, and how it might fit within your overall portfolio.
Identifying stocks to avoid is just as important as picking the winners, and while this is equally challenging there are a few warning signs to keep an eye out for. Falling margins, a poor track record, stagnant earnings or dividends, and high regulatory risk are a few of these.
Mark Lister is Head of Private Wealth Research at Craigs Investment Partners. The information in this article is provided for information only, is intended to be general in nature, and does not take into account your financial situation, objectives, goals, or risk tolerance. Before making any investment decision Craigs Investment Partners recommends you contact an investment adviser.
