Should You Buy Mastercard at Current Valuation or Hold Off for Now?

Payments-processing giant Mastercard Incorporated (MA) is currently trading at a premium valuation. Its forward earnings multiple of 31.07X significantly exceeds the financial transaction industry average of 24.01X. In comparison, competitors like Visa Inc. (V) and American Express Company (AXP) trade at more modest forward P/E ratios of 26.55X and 19.61X, respectively. This premium reflects the market's confidence in Mastercard's growth potential. Image Source: Zacks Investment ResearchHowever, such a high ...