Arch Coal Inc. (ACI) Stock Tumbles on Earnings: Here's What You Need to Know

Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.

What:Shares of the second largest U.S. coal producer,Arch Coal, fell as much as 10% on April 21, following the company's first-quarter earnings release.

ACI Price data by YCharts.

So what:The company reported a $113 million loss in the quarter, which was larger than Wall Street was expecting, though it was a slight improvement from last years' $124 million in the same period. The reality is that coal producers continue to operate in a tough environment, with natural gas prices and lower emissions leading many electric producers to use more gas and less coal.

This puts Arch in an unenviable position.

Now what:The company has more than $5 billion in debt, but almost $1 billion in cash which should provide enough of a hedge to get through this rough patch. But the long-term trends for coal producers aren't exactly in the company's favor, as China -- the world's largest coal importer -- is reducing imports and making efforts to reduce domestic pollution in addition to the wider trend toward cleaner and more sustainable fuels.

There could be some value to be had for patient investors who follow the industry closely, but the average retail investor is probably better off investing in companies with durable long-term advantages. Factor in the cut-throat nature of a commodity business like coal, the cyclical nature of its pricing and demand, and it's hard to predict Arch being a better than average bet for strong investor returns, even at these prices.

The article Arch Coal Inc. (ACI) Stock Tumbles on Earnings: Here's What You Need to Know originally appeared on Fool.com.

Jason Hall has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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