Efficiency level measures a company’s capability to transform available input into output and is often considered an important parameter for gauging its potential to make profits. A company with a high efficiency level is expected to provide stellar returns as it is believed to be positively correlated with price performance.However, at times, it becomes difficult to measure the efficiency level of a company. This is why one must consider popular efficiency ratios while selecting stocks.To that end, Microva ...

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of efficiency ratios in evaluating a company's potential for profitability and stock performance [1] Efficiency Ratios - **Receivables Turnover**: This ratio measures a company's ability to extend credit and collect debts, with a high ratio indicating effective collection practices and quality customers [2] - **Asset Utilization**: This ratio assesses how well a company converts its assets into sales, with higher values suggesting greater efficiency [3] - **Inventory Turnover**: This ratio indicates a company's ability to manage inventory relative to its cost of goods sold, where a high value reflects efficient inventory management [4] - **Operating Margin**: This ratio measures the efficiency of a company in controlling operating expenses, with higher values indicating better expense management compared to peers [5] Screening Criteria - The screening process identified stocks with efficiency ratios above industry averages, narrowing down from over 7,906 stocks to eight candidates [7] - A favorable Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) was also included in the screening criteria to enhance profitability [6] Selected Stocks - **Quad Graphics (QUAD)**: Specializes in print and multichannel solutions, with an average four-quarter earnings surprise of 71.8% [7] - **ONESPAN (OSPN)**: Develops security software and e-signature solutions, achieving an average four-quarter earnings surprise of 38.6% [8] - **ChampionX (CHX)**: Provides chemistry solutions and technologies for oil and gas production, with an average four-quarter earnings surprise of 9% [9] - **BancFirst (BANF)**: A bank holding company offering commercial banking services, with an average four-quarter earnings surprise of 7% [10]