Procter & Gamble Earnings Preview: Analysts Expect Rising Revenue

Procter & Gamble PG announces its next round of earnings this Friday, August 5, 2011. Here's Benzinga's advanced look at Procter & Gamble's fourth quarter earnings report.

Earnings and Revenue:

Based on estimates, investors are readying for a positive EPS reading of 82 cents/share and revenues of $20.63 billion. Procter & Gamble's latest numbers will no doubt be compared with the company's year-ago quarter, when it reported a profit of 71 cents/share on revenues of $18.93 billion. Can Procter & Gamble manage the estimated 15.5% rise in EPS and 9% increase in revenues from the year-ago quarter as analysts are predicting? We'll have to wait until Friday to find out.

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

Stock Performance:

As of August 1, 2011, Procter & Gamble's current share price was $61.43. Shares are down 2.2% year to date. For a full 12 months, the return has risen by 2.2%. Given that these returns are generally positive, long-term shareholders are probably satisfied going into this earnings release.

• Long-term shareholders are already enjoying 12-month gains prior to the announcement

Average Stock Rating:

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

Competitors:

Wondering how some of the other consumer staples companies are doing? Here are a few of Procter & Gamble's peers in that sector.

• Church & Dwight CHD: Hold with a $0.57 recent quarter EPS
• Colgate-Palmolive Company CL: Hold with a $1.26 recent quarter EPS
• Clorox Company CLX: Hold with a $1.05 recent quarter EPS

The soap and cleaning products company's industry has seen price/earnings growth of 1.8% during the current fiscal year.

Finally, a description of the company's main areas of operation: Procter & Gamble sells and markets consumer products such as pharmaceuticals, cleaning supplies, personal care, and pet supplies in more than 180 countries.

Take Action:

Now that you've gotten an advanced peak at Procter & Gamble's upcoming earnings numbers, keep an eye out for any surprises in the report and be ready to take action. Also, check back in with us after the announcement for a full recap and a guide to your next steps.

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