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.
Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Dollar amounts in millions. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.
EPS detailsNon-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.
Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.
Margin detailsFor 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.
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