China’s far-flung cities make travel imperative for all but the most local of businesses. Farmers, for instance, tend to stay close to home.
And, like any successful emerging market, a new consumer class is appearing in China. What are they buying? Cell phones, energy, clothes, food, cars, jewelry – and travel services. Each of these industries has contributed at least one superstar name to China’s stock market history.
Ctrip, China’s leading travel-reservation website, already is one such name. It may now be gearing up for a fresh move.
Ctrip came public in December 2003 and reported earnings of 10 cents a share that year. It has since improved its bottom line for six years in a row.
Investors.com states that analysts look for 37% EPS growth this year and 31% next year, which would extend Ctrip’s winning streak to eight straight years.