Earnings Preview: General Motors Company

General Motors Company GM releases its next round of earnings this Thursday, August 4, 2011. Here's Benzinga's advanced look at General Motors' second quarter earnings report.

Earnings and Revenue:

Analysts are predicting an EPS reading of $1.21/share and revenues of $36.71 billion.

Stock Performance:

At last check, shares of General Motors were trading at $27.68. Since January 1st, shares of General Motors have declined 24.9%. For a full 12 months, the return has declined by 20%. 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 General Motors is a Moderate Buy. The strength of this rating has declined slightly over the past three months.

Competitors:

Looking for a sympathy stock to trade or interested in the performance of other companies in the same sector? Take a look at some of General Motors' peers.

• Ford Motor Company F: Moderate Buy with a $0.65 recent quarter EPS
• Federal Signal FSS: Hold with a -$0.06 recent quarter EPS
• Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (ADR HMC: Moderate Buy with a $0.30 recent quarter EPS
• Daimler (DDAIF): Strong Buy with a $2.19 recent quarter EPS

General Motors is in the domestic automobiles industry, which has experienced price/earnings growth of 0.8%.

FInally, a description of the company's main areas of operation: General Motors is a global automaker producing cars and trucks under a variety of brand names, including Buick and Chevrolet.

Take Action:

That's your advanced look at General Motors' 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.

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