Earnings Preview: Baxter International Earnings Expected to Increase Over Last Quarter

Baxter International BAX earnings are coming up! Don't miss out: The company unveils its next round of earnings this Thursday, July 21, 2011.

No time to prep before Thursday's announcement? Don't worry. Here is your everything-that-matters guide to Baxter International's second quarter earnings report.

Let's Do the Numbers:

Based on estimates, investors are readying for a positive EPS reading of $1.02 per share and revenues of $3.38 billion. We'll know on Thursday whether Baxter International has managed the estimated 100% increase in EPS and 106% rise 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:

Quarter	Q1	Q4	Q3	Q2
EPS Estimate	$0.93	$1.10	$0.97	$0.92
EPS Actual	$0.98	$1.11	$1.01	$0.93

Stock Performance:

As of July 15, 2011, Baxter International's current share price was $60.80. Shares are up 21.5% year to date. For a full 12 months, the return has risen by 24%. 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 Baxter International is a Moderate Buy. The strength of this rating has declined slightly over the past three months.

Competitors:

Want to check out the performance of Baxter International closest competitors? Take a look at some of the company's peers in the healthcare sector.

• C.R. Bard BCR: Hold with a $1.51 recent quarter EPS
• Becton, Dickinson and BDX: Hold with a $1.38 recent quarter EPS
• CareFusion CFN: Hold with a $0.42 recent quarter EPS

Finally, a description of the main business areas of the company, in case you need a little refresher: Baxter International Inc is a company which develops and manufactures healthcare products that save and sustain the lives of people with chronic, acute illnesses.

Take Action:

Now that you've gotten an advanced peak at Baxter International'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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