Three Companies that Reported Surging Earnings This Week

Author's Avatar
Nov 24, 2013
On Tuesday The Home Depot, the world's largest home improvement retailer, reported a 7.4 percent increase in sales to $19.5 billion for the third quarter of fiscal 2013. Net earnings for the third quarter were $1.4 billion, or $0.95 per diluted share, compared with net earnings of $947 million, or $0.63 per diluted share, in the same period of fiscal 2012. The prior year results reflect a nonrecurring charge of approximately $165 million, net of tax, or $0.11 per diluted share, due to the closing of seven stores in China. On an adjusted basis, the Company reported a 28.4 percent increase in diluted earnings per share from the same period in the prior year.

"Our third quarter results reflect the continuing improvement in the housing market and our solid operational performance," said Frank Blake, chairman & CEO. "I would like to thank our associates for their hard work and dedication."

The Company raised its fiscal 2013 sales guidance and now expects sales to be up approximately 5.6 percent. The Company raised its fiscal 2013 diluted earnings-per-share guidance and now expects diluted earnings per share to be up approximately 24.0 percent to $3.72 for the year up 24% from $3.00 in 2012.

The stock price fell $0.65 on Friday to close at $79.18.

Also on Tuesday La-Z-Boy Incorporated reported its operating results for the fiscal 2014 second quarter ended October 26, 2013. Sales for the fiscal 2014 second quarter were $366.4 million, up 13.7% compared with the prior year's second quarter. Net income attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated of $16.7 million, or $0.31 per diluted share, were more than double 2012 second-quarter results of $6.6 million, or $0.12 per diluted share.

Kurt L. Darrow, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of La-Z-Boy, said, " We believe our positive sales trajectory is indicative of continued market share gains, and with the strength of the La”‘Z”‘Boy brand, our vast distribution network and our lean manufacturing structure, we are well positioned for future profitable growth."

La”‘Z”‘Boy closed up $0.22 on Friday at $28.57.

On Wednesday, L-Brands reported 2013 third quarter results and increased its 2013 full-year earnings guidance. Net sales increased 6% to $2.171 billion. Third quarter operating income was $211.0 million compared to adjusted operating income of $197.4 million last year. Earnings per share for the third quarter ended Nov. 2, 2013 increased 19% to $0.31 compared to adjusted earnings per share of $0.26 for the third quarter ended Oct. 27, 2012.

The company dominates the intimates apparel and lingerie markets owning both Victoria’s Secret and La Senza. Despite what is expected to be a tough environment, commentators expect L-Brands to continue to benefit from a strong attachment to customers with their customers helping to generate loyalty and insulate them from the difficult trading environment.

The company stated that it expects fourth quarter earnings of $1.67 to $1.82 per share and full year 2013 earnings per share of $3.07 to $3.22 up from $2.54 in 2012.

L-Brands closed down $0.84 at $63.94.

The author of this article is a blogger at SurgingEarnings

Risk Disclaimer: This article does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell. Investing in stocks or other securities and derivatives is a high risk activity and not suitable for everyone. It is advised that individuals should consult with their investment advisor prior to making any investment decisions. The above report includes information from third party web sites and the author cannot guarantee its accuracy, completeness or timeliness. It is strongly advised that all readers complete their own thorough research and analysis.

Disclosure: The author holds no positions in any of the above stocks and has no intention to initiate any in the next 72 hours.