Which of the following is a key factor in company analysis?  A. GDP growth rate  B. Industry trends  C. Earnings per share (EPS)  D. Inflation rate

In company analysis, several factors can influence the evaluation of a company's performance and potential. Among the options provided:

A. GDP growth rate - This reflects the overall economic health and can impact all companies but is more macroeconomic rather than company-specific.

B. Industry trends - Understanding trends within the specific industry is crucial for assessing how a company is positioned relative to its competitors and the market.

C. Earnings per share (EPS) - This is a direct measure of a company's profitability on a per-share basis and is vital for investor decision-making.

D. Inflation rate - While it can affect purchasing power and costs, it is generally broader in scope and does not directly pertain to company-specific health.

Conclusion

The key factor in company analysis among the given options would be C. Earnings per share (EPS) because it provides a clear indicator of a company’s profitability and performance relative to its share price.