AutoNation 2Q Earnings Pregame Scorecard

Last quarter AutoNation (NYSE:AN) beat estimates by 3 cents per share and it is up again on Thursday, July 19, 2012.

Expectations

Analysts currently expect AutoNation to come in with earnings of 59 cents per share on revenues of $3.72 billion. Analysts gave estimates ranging from 57 cents per share to 63 cents per share. Over the past three months, the average estimate has moved up from 56 cents.

Last Quarter's Results

In the first quarter, profit rose 5.2% to $73 million (55 cents a share) from $69.4 million (46 cents a share) the year earlier, exceeding analyst expectations. Revenue rose 10.4% to $3.66 billion from $3.31 billion.

Stock Ratings

Analysts think investors should stand pat on AutoNation with 10 of 12 analysts rating it hold. Analyst sentiment has been waning recently, as the average rating has dropped slightly over the past three months.

Stock Movement

In terms of price changes, the stock's best recent streak was when it gained $4.54 per share between June 28, 2012 and July 5, 2012. Looking at change over the last three months, from April 18, 2012 and July 13, 2012, the stock price is up $6.09 (18%), from $33.75 to $39.84.

Company Fundamental Trends

Summary

Reporting Period: 2Q

Date of Release: Thursday, July 19, 2012

EPS: 59 cents

Revenue Estimate: $3.72 billion

(Company fundamentals by Xignite Financials. Earnings estimates provided by Zacks)