As the leader in printing and personal computer sales globally, HP Inc. (HPQ, Financial)’s key challenge is declining revenues. Partly due to the stronger U.S. dollar, consensus estimates have the company’s sales declining approximately 10% in 2016. Many investors believe a shrinking market for hardware and ink may be too difficult to overcome; we believe this view of the company’s prospects is too pessimistic. HP’s management is aggressively cutting costs and has plans to introduce more new products. For example, HP has portions of its printing business (e.g., high-end graphics production) that are currently growing and may increase share in the established copier market and in the more nascent 3D print market. Moreover, the company generates robust free cash flow. Trading at seven times forward estimated earnings, HP remains an attractive investment opportunity with strong business prospects given its large valuation discount to the overall market.
From Dodge & Cox Stock Fund annual commentary for 2015.
