Despite posting higher profits in the fourth quarter of 2009, ECL shares sank over 5% Thursday as a result of slightly missing analyst estimates.
Ecolab had reported EPS of $0.48, which was below the street forecast of $0.56. This represents a 45% increase from the 4th quarter EPS in 08 of $0.33.
Ecolab reported a profit of $115.8 million, or 48 cents per share. That's up from $80 million, or 33 cents per share, in the last quarter of 2008. Excluding one-time items, the company said it earned 55 cents per share.
Revenue grew 5% to $1.56 billion in the quarter, which is identical to what analysts were expecting.
Going forward,in 2010, ECL said they expected to earn $2.17 and $2.25 per share while analysts were expecting $2.26. Management said they feel that demand is starting to bottom, which is a good sign.
Here at UASBIG, we feel that Ecolab is still a hold because of their unique and diversified business.
I will update the model shortly and blog about any changes to my price target.
1 comment:
I have updated the model for Ecolab with their most recent information regarding their 4Q and FY 09 numbers.
Revenues and Margins took a small hit in 2009, but 2010 looks to be a year of recovery since demand appears to have bottomed. The valuation remains unchanged, with a price target of $50 on Ecolab. UASBIG remains HOLD on ECL.
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