3D Systems Corporation Warns on Earnings, Stock Tumbles

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's happening: Shares of 3D Systems were down sharply today after the 3D printing giant announced preliminary first-quarter earnings that came in below expectations.

Why it's happening: For the quarter, 3D Systems anticipates revenue between $158 million and $160 million, which it expects will translate to a generally accepted accounting principles earnings loss of between $0.13 and $0.15 per share, and a non-GAAP profit of between $0.02 and $0.04 per share. These results compare unfavorably to the Wall Street consensus forecast for 3D Systems to generate $182.8 million in revenue and earn $0.17 per share in non-GAAP profit.

3D Systems attributed its shortfall to economic weakness brought on by the strong U.S. dollar and low oil prices, which together caused the majority of its aerospace, automotive, and healthcare customers to slow new printer purchases and spending for 3D printing-related services and materials. Additionally, performance issues related to certain metal and nylon 3D printing applications prevented the company from selling some industrial printers during the quarter.

All told, 3D Systems expects that first-quarter revenue will grow by 9% year over year, including a $12 million impact from currency headwinds.

CEO Avi Reichental weighed in with the following in a press release:

On a positive note, 3D Systems said it expects to report that its gross profit margin expanded by 110 basis points year over year, to 49%, and that second-quarter orders are outpacing 2014 levels.

In light of what appear to be ongoing currency challenges, 3D Systems announced it will reevaluate its 2015 guidance and plans to update investors when it reports the quarter's final earnings on May 6.

The article 3D Systems Corporation Warns on Earnings, Stock Tumbles originally appeared on Fool.com.

Steve Heller owns shares of 3D Systems. The Motley Fool recommends and owns shares of 3D Systems. 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.