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Earnings Estimates Moving Higher for Hess (HES): Time to Buy?

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Investors might want to bet on Hess (HES - Free Report) , as earnings estimates for this company have been showing solid improvement lately. The stock has already gained solid short-term price momentum, and this trend might continue with its still improving earnings outlook.

Analysts' growing optimism on the earnings prospects of this oil and gas producer 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 -- is principally built on this insight.

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 Hess, as there has been strong agreement among the covering analysts in raising estimates.

Current-Quarter Estimate Revisions

The company is expected to earn $1.30 per share for the current quarter, which represents a year-over-year change of -31.22%.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Hess has increased 21.29% over the last 30 days, as six estimates have gone higher compared to no negative revisions.

Current-Year Estimate Revisions

For the full year, the earnings estimate of $5.06 per share represents a change of -28.83% from the year-ago number.

In terms of estimate revisions, the trend for the current year also appears quite encouraging for Hess. Over the past month, seven estimates have moved higher compared to no negative revisions, helping the consensus estimate increase 14.99%.

Favorable Zacks Rank

Thanks to promising estimate revisions, Hess currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (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

While strong estimate revisions for Hess have attracted decent investments and pushed the stock 5.6% higher over the past four weeks, further upside may still be left in the stock. So, you may consider adding it to your portfolio right away.


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