Spectra Energy Earnings Preview: Higher Revenue, Earnings Expected

Spectra Energy SE releases its next round of earnings this Wednesday, August 3, 2011. Here's Benzinga's advanced look at Spectra Energy's second quarter earnings report.

Earnings and Revenue:

Wall Street expects an EPS of 40 cents per share and revenues of $1.22 billion. Wall Street will be looking to see how this quarter's numbers compare to the year-ago quarter's positive EPS of 27 cents per share on revenues of $1.06 billion. Can Spectra Energy manage the estimated 48.1% rise in EPS and 15.1% increase in revenues from the year-ago quarter as analysts are predicting? We'll have to wait until Wednesday to find out.

Here's how the company's reported EPS has stacked up against analyst estimates in the past:

Stock Performance:

As of July 28, 2011, Spectra Energy's current share price was $27.07. Since January 1st, shares of Spectra Energy have given investors a return of 10.4%.

Average Stock Rating:

The average rating by analysts for Spectra Energy is a Moderate Buy. The strength of this rating has crept upwards over the past three months.

Competitors:

Looking for a sympathy stock to trade or interested in the performance of other companies in the same sector? Take a look at some of Spectra Energy's peers.

• Copano Energy, L.L.C CPNO: Hold with a -$0.07 recent quarter EPS
• DCP Midstream Partners DPM: Hold with a $0.54 recent quarter EPS
• El Paso EP: Moderate Buy with a $0.30 recent quarter EPS
• Duncan Energy Partners L.P (DEP): Hold with a $0.39 recent quarter EPS

Spectra Energy is in the oil production/pipelines industry, which has experienced price/earnings growth of 21.7%.

Finally, a description of the company's main areas of operation: Spectra Energy, through its subsidiaries and equity affiliates, owns and operates natural gas-related energy assets.

Take Action:

Now that you're fully prepared, get ready to take quick action if the company reports any numbers significantly different from those listed above. Also, check back in with us after the announcement for a full recap and what-to-do-next guide.

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