Xerox Earnings Preview: Analysts Predict Higher Earnings Over Prior Quarter

It's time to get ready for Xerox XRX earnings! Don't be caught off-guard: The company releases its next round of earnings this Friday, July 22, 2011.

Want to know what analysts are expecting to see in Xerox's lastest earnings numbers? We thought so. Here's an advanced look at the company's second quarter earnings report.

Let's Do the Numbers:

Ahead of the company's earnings announcement, analysts are expecting a positive EPS reading of 24 cents per share and revenues of $5.63 billion. We'll know on Friday whether Xerox has managed the estimated increase in EPS and revenue 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	$0.22	$0.28	$0.20	$0.21
EPS Actual	$0.23	$0.29	$0.22	$0.24

Stock Performance:

At last check, shares of Xerox were trading at $9.92. Since January 1st, shares of Xerox have declined 13.1%. For a full 12 months, the return has declined by 10.1%. Given that these returns are generally negative, long-term shareholders are probably a little upset going into this earnings release.

Long-term shareholders are already wary of 12-month losses prior to the announcement

Average Stock Rating:

The average rating by analysts for Xerox is a Moderate Buy. This rating has remained steady over the past ninety days.

Competitors:

Wondering how some of the other information technology companies are doing? Here are a few of Xerox's peers in that sector.

Canon, Inc. (ADR CAJ: Strong Buy with a $0.54 recent quarter EPS
Eastman Kodak Company EK: Moderate Sell with a $-1.13 recent quarter EPS
Hewlett-Packard Company HPQ: Hold with a $1.24 recent quarter EPS
Pitney Bowes (PBI): Hold with a $0.53 recent quarter EPS

Xerox is in the office automation and equipment industry, which has experienced price/earnings growth of 2.2%.

Finally, a description of the main business areas of the company, in case you need a little refresher: Xerox, in the global document market, develops, manufactures, markets, services and finances document equipment, software, solutions and services.

Take Action:

That's your advanced look at Xerox's upcoming earnings numbers -- be ready to take quick action if the company's report contains any surprises. Also, check back in with us after the announcement for a full recap and what-to-do-next guide.