Things are going from bad to worse for Tesco (LSE: TSCO) (NASDAQOTH: TSCDY.US). Not only has it overestimated forecast profit to the tune of 250 million, it has now suspended a further three executives (which brings the total to eight) as it investigates how a FTSE 100 company can be so far out with its investor guidance.
Indeed, the three executives in question are rumoured to be category heads and so it is yet another blow for the companys UK operation after UK Managing Director Chris Bush was previously suspended. Furthermore, if todays other rumours surrounding Tesco are to be believed, it is considering the replacement of its Chairman, Sir Richard Broadbent, as it apparently seeks a new direction in the post-Philip Clarke era.
Market Sentiment
So, what does this mean for market sentiment? Clearly, investor sentiment in Tesco could get worse before it gets better. Thats because there could be more negative news flow to come, with the companys own internal investigation due to report on 23 October. Furthermore, the FCA intends to launch its own investigation into the company, which could prove to be rather long-winded and, as a result, keep investor sentiment pushed back.
Bad News Priced In
However, it could also be argued that most of the bad news is now already priced in to Tescos share price. In other words, it would take a majorly negative piece of news flow (such as another 250 million overstatement) to hit shares hard again. After all, Tescos share price has fallen by a whopping 21% in the last month alone and the company trades on a price to earnings (P/E) ratio of just 9.9 using next years lower earnings numbers.
Future Potential
In addition, Tesco remains a financially sound and highly profitable business that can easily afford its current yield of 3.3%. Certainly, it faces the dual threat of a hugely challenging marketplace, with no-frills operators such as Aldi and Lidl eating away at its market share while, at the same time, it must deal with internal complications resulting from the overstatement of profit guidance.
However, for investors with a long term view, this is a chance to buy shares in a high-quality company thatcontinues to have a bright long-term future for a very low price. Indeed, even after more executives have been suspended, Tesco remains a highly attractive long-term play that could boost your bottom line.
Of course, it’s not the only company that could do so. In fact, we’ve written a free and without obligation guide to 5 Stocks That Could Blitz The FTSE 100!
These 5 companies offer a potent mix of dependable dividends, stunning growth prospects and hugely enticing valuations. As a result, they could make a positive contribution to your portfolio and help you retire rich, pay off the mortgage, or simply increase your net worth!
Click here to obtain your free and without obligation copy of the guide. It’s well-worth a read.
Peter Stephens owns shares of Tesco. The Motley Fool UK owns shares of Tesco. We Fools don’t all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.