Benchmark Reports Big Lots Expects Slight Upside in 4Q10 Earnings

According to Benchmark, Big Lots BIG expects a slight upside in its 4Q10 Earnings. Benchmark reported that Big Lots is expected to report Q4 earnings on Thursday, March 3, before the market open. “We believe there could be slight upside potential to ours and the consensus estimate of $1.38, through a mix shift to higher margin goods, and management's ability to leverage SG&A. While there is speculation in the media that Big Lots may be the target of an acquisition, we do not expect management to comment on the topic. Our price target of $49 is based on 8x our 2011 EBITDA estimate.” Big Lots closed yesterday at $40.63.