Credit: Shutterstock photoMosaic ( MOS ) is a leading producer and marketer of concentrated phosphate and potash for the global agriculture industry. It is the largest producer of finished phosphate products globally.
Mosaic is well placed to leverage the rising global demand for grain and oilseeds. The company remains committed to expand its annual potash production capacity and is progressing well with the joint venture project in Saudi Arabia. It is also expanding production and distribution capacity through acquisitions. However, Mosaic, like other fertilizer makers, is exposed to a weak pricing environment.
Let's have a quick look at this fertilizer company's fourth-quarter release.
Estimate Trend & Surprise History
Investors should note that the earnings estimate for Mosaic for the fourth quarter have shown a rising trend over the past month while remaining stationary over the past week. Mosaic has missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the trailing 4 quarters with an average negative surprise of 8.24%. Investors have been eagerly awaiting Mosaic's latest earnings report to see whether it ends 2014 with an outperformance in the final quarter.
Earnings
Mosaic logged adjusted earnings of 87 cents per share that beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 86 cents. Higher potash volumes and increased phosphate pricing contributed to a solid rise in profit in the quarter.
Revenues
Mosaic recorded net sales of $2,378.6 million, up 9% year over year. That also came ahead of the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2,366 million.
Key Stats/Developments to Note
Mosaic expects phosphates sales volumes in the band of 14.5 to 15 million tons for 2015. Potash sales volumes have been forecast in the range of 8.5 to 9 million tons for the year.
Zacks Rank
Mosaic currently has a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), supported by its strong fundamentals and healthy outlook for 2015.
Market Reaction
Mosaic's shares were inactive following the release. It would be interesting to see how the market reacts to the results during the trading session today.
Check back later for our full write up on Mosaic's earnings report!
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MOSAIC CO/THE (MOS): Free Stock Analysis Report
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
