Loews Earnings Preview: EPS Expected to Fall

Loews L releases its next round of earnings this Monday, August 1, 2011. Here's Benzinga's advanced look at Loews' second quarter earnings report.

Earnings and Revenue:

Analysts are expecting an EPS of $.075/share this quarter, a 14% decline from the company's  year-ago quarter EPS of $0.87.

Stock Performance:

As of July 26, 2011, Loews' current share price was $40.41. Shares are up 4.2% year to date. For a full 12 months, the return has risen by 2.8%. 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 Loews is a Moderate Buy. The strength of this rating has stayed consistent over the past three months.

Competitors:

Wondering how Loews compares to rivals in the same sector? Here are a few of the company's peers.

• American Financial Group AFG: Moderate Buy with a $0.81 recent quarter EPS
• American International Group AIG: Hold with a $1.30 recent quarter EPS
• Chubb CB: Hold with a $1.27 recent quarter EPS
• Cincinnati CINF: Moderate Sell with a $0.33 recent quarter EPS

The insurance-multiline company's industry has seen price/earnings growth of 0.8% during the current fiscal year.

Finally, a description of the company's main areas of operation: Through its subsidiaries, Loews is involved in commercial property and casualty insurance, operation of offshore oil and gas drilling rigs, production of natural gas and liquids, operation of interstate natural gas pipeline and operation of hotels.

Take Action:

Now that you have reviewed all the numbers, be ready to move if the upcoming Loews earnings report has any surprises. Also, come back to Benzinga after the announcement for a full recap and a guide to your next steps.

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