Energy

How First Solar Shattered Bottom-Line Expectations

Thinkstock

When First Solar Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) released its most recent quarterly earnings report after the markets closed on Thursday, the company said that it had $0.64 in earnings per share (EPS) and $623.3 million in revenue. Consensus estimates had called for a loss of $0.04 per share and revenue of $535.5 million. The second quarter of last year reportedly had EPS of had $0.25 and $1.0 billion in revenue.

Almost in response to this report, First Solar raised its earnings and revenue guidance for the full year. Effectively, the company said that it raised guidance as a result of improved visibility into the sale of systems projects, a discrete tax benefit in the second quarter and continuing operational improvements.

First Solar’s outlook for 2017 is currently $2.00 to $2.50 in EPS (up from the previous range of $0.25 to $0.75) and $3.0 billion to $3.1 billion in revenue. Consensus estimates call for EPS of $0.61 and $2.9 billion in revenue.

First Solar’s cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities totaled $2.2 billion at the end of the quarter, up from $2.0 billion at the end of the previous fiscal year.

Mark Widmar, CEO of First Solar, commented:

We executed well in the second quarter with solid non-GAAP earnings of $0.64, record quarterly shipments of nearly 900MWdc and bookings of 1.5GWdc since our last earnings call. We are encouraged by the continuing strong demand for our Series 4 product and are focused on meeting our customers’ current needs. At the same time, our efforts to ensure the manufacturing and market readiness of Series 6 remains our highest priority. With the first Series 6 equipment being installed at our Ohio factory, and an increasing number of mid-to-late stage Series 6 bookings opportunities, we are pleased with our progress thus far.

Shares of First Solar traded up about 7.6% early Friday to $48.20. The consensus analyst price target is $43.95 and the 52-week trading range is $25.56 to $49.50.

Essential Tips for Investing (Sponsored)

A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.