United States Cellular (USM) could be a solid choice for investors given the company's remarkably improving earnings outlook. While the stock has been a strong performer lately, this trend might continue since analysts are still raising their earnings estimates for the company.
Analysts' growing optimism on the earnings prospects of this wireless telecommunications service provider is driving estimates higher, which should get reflected in its stock price. After all, empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements. Our stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank -- has this insight at its core.
The five-grade Zacks Rank system, which ranges from a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) to a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive externally-audited track record of outperformance, with Zacks #1 Ranked stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 2008.
Consensus earnings estimates for the next quarter and full year have moved considerably higher for U.S. Cellular, as there has been strong agreement among the covering analysts in raising estimates.
Current-Quarter Estimate Revisions
The earnings estimate of $0.37 per share for the current quarter represents a change of +85% from the number reported a year ago.
Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for U.S. Cellular has increased 17.74% because two estimates have moved higher compared to no negative revisions.
Current-Year Estimate Revisions
The company is expected to earn $1.16 per share for the full year, which represents a change of +352.17% from the prior-year number.
In terms of estimate revisions, the trend for the current year also appears quite encouraging for U.S. Cellular. Over the past month, two estimates have moved higher compared to no negative revisions, helping the consensus estimate increase 9.43%.
Favorable Zacks Rank
Thanks to promising estimate revisions, U.S. Cellular currently carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). The Zacks Rank is a tried-and-tested rating tool that helps investors effectively harness the power of earnings estimate revisions and make the right investment decision. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Our research shows that stocks with Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and 2 (Buy) significantly outperform the S&P 500.
Bottom Line
U.S. Cellular shares have added 5.1% over the past four weeks, suggesting that investors are betting on its impressive estimate revisions. So, you may consider adding it to your portfolio right away to benefit from its earnings growth prospects.
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This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
