CSX 2Q Earnings Pregame Scorecard

Having topped analysts' estimates last quarter by 5 cents per share, CSX (NYSE:CSX) is expected to deliver its latest earnings on Tuesday, July 17, 2012.

Expectations

Analysts currently expect CSX to come in with earnings of 47 cents per share on revenues of $3.05 billion. Estimates range from 43 cents per share to 51 cents per share. Over the past three months, the average estimate has moved down from 48 cents.

Last Quarter's Results

In the first quarter, profit rose 13.7% to $449 million (43 cents a share) from $395 million (35 cents a share) the year earlier, exceeding analyst expectations. Revenue rose 5.6% to $2.97 billion from $2.81 billion.

Stock Ratings

Analysts are bullish on the stock as 18 analysts rate it as a buy and only one analyst rate it as a sell. Analyst sentiment has been improving recently, as the average rating risen slightly over the past three months.

Stock Movement

Recently, the stock price has been rising Since June 25, 2012 business days the stock has risen 92 cents per share.

Company Fundamental Trends The impending earnings announcement offers the opportunity expand on positive earnings momentum gained over last three quarters. Net income rose 12.1% in the third quarter of the last fiscal year and 6.3% in the fourth quarter of the last fiscal year before increasing again in the first quarter. On the top line, the company is looking to build on four-straight revenue increases heading into this earnings announcement. Revenue rose 13.4% in the second quarter of the last fiscal year, 11.1% in the third quarter of the last fiscal year and 4.8% in the fourth quarter of the last fiscal year before increasing again in the first quarter.

Summary

Reporting Period: 2Q

Date of Release: Tuesday, July 17, 2012

EPS: 47 cents

Revenue Estimate: $3.05 billion

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