Google Earnings Preview: Revenue, Earnings Expected to Fall from Previous Quarter

Comprehensive Earnings Preview for Google for Thursday, July 14, 2011. Now's the time to start prepping for Google GOOG! Don't be caught off-guard: The company releases its next round of earnings this Thursday, July 14, 2011. Want to get caught up before Thursday's earnings release? We have just what you need. Here is your everything-that-matters guide to Google's second quarter earnings report. The Numbers: Analysts are predicting a positive EPS reading of $6.78 per share and revenues of $6.54 billion. We'll have to wait for Thursday to see if Google has accomplished the estimated 118% rise in EPS and a 128% increase in revenues on a year-over-year basis. Here's how the company's reported EPS has stacked up against analyst estimates in the past:
Q1 EPS $7.04 vs. $7.14 Estimate
Q4 EPS $7.81 vs. $7.16 Estimate
Q3 EPS $6.72 vs. $5.92 Estimate
Q2 EPS $5.71 vs. $5.78 Estimate Stock Performance: As of July 8, 2011, Google's current share price was $531.99. Shares are down 10.4% year to date. For a full 12 months, the return has declined by 1.8%. Given that these returns are generally negative, long-term shareholders are probably a little upset going into this earnings release. Average Stock Rating: The average rating by analysts for Google is a Moderate Buy. Over the past three months this rating's strength has declined slightly. Competitors: Wondering how some of the other Information Technology companies are doing? Here are a few of Google's peers in that sector.

• Apple AAPL: Moderate Buy with a $6.40 recent quarter EPS
• Adobe Systems ADBE: Hold with a $0.40 recent quarter EPS
• Amazon.com AMZN: Moderate Buy with a $0.44 recent quarter EPS
• America Online AOL: Hold with a $0.22 recent quarter EPS

The internet services company's industry has seen price/earnings growth of 1.8% during the current fiscal year. Finally, a description of the main business areas of the company, in case you need a little refresher: Google provides search and advertising services and makes this information freely available to anyone with an Internet connection. Take Action: Now that you've gotten an advanced peak at Google'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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