Friday, March 30, 2012

AGL Resources Catches Analysts Sleeping Again

AGL Resources (NYSE: GAS  ) reported earnings on Feb. 22. Here are the numbers you need to know.
The 10-second takeaway
For the quarter ended Dec. 31 (Q4), AGL Resources missed estimates on revenues and missed estimates on earnings per share.
Compared to the prior-year quarter, revenue improved significantly and GAAP earnings per share dropped significantly.
Gross margins expanded, operating margins expanded, net margins dropped.
Revenue details
AGL Resources recorded revenue of $790.0 million. The four analysts polled by S&P Capital IQ expected a top line of $812.2 million on the same basis. GAAP reported sales were 19% higher than the prior-year quarter's $665.0 million.
anImage
Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Dollar amounts in millions. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.
EPS details
Non-GAAP EPS came in at $0.87. The eight earnings estimates compiled by S&P Capital IQ predicted $0.93 per share on the same basis. GAAP EPS of $0.36 for Q4 were 56% lower than the prior-year quarter's $0.81 per share.
anImage
Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.
Margin details
For the quarter, gross margin was 33.8%, 460 basis points better than the prior-year quarter. Operating margin was 23.5%, 200 basis points better than the prior-year quarter. Net margin was 4.2%, 540 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter.
Looking ahead
Next quarter's average estimate for revenue is $1.46 billion. On the bottom! line, t he average EPS estimate is $1.44.
Next year's average estimate for revenue is $2.53 billion. The average EPS estimate is $3.06.
Investor sentiment
Of Wall Street recommendations tracked by S&P Capital IQ, the average opinion on AGL Resources is hold, with an average price target of $41.29.
If you are interested in gas utilities, then you'll want to read about "One Stock to Own Before Nat Gas Act 2011 Becomes Law." Click here for instant access to this free report.
  • Add AGL Resources to My Watchlist.