Analysis

Uncovering Consumer Discretionary Stocks Set to Outperform in Earnings

Published October 4, 2024

Investing in the stock market requires not just an understanding of the sectors and companies but also a strategy for selecting stocks that have the potential for a positive performance, particularly in terms of earnings reports. One such sector where potential can be found is the consumer discretionary sector, which encompasses businesses that tend to be more sensitive to economic cycles, such as those offering non-essential goods and services. Identifying companies within this sector that are primed for positive earnings surprises is a task that involves careful research and analysis.

Understanding Earnings Surprises

At the heart of uncovering solid investments in the consumer discretionary sector lies the anticipation of earnings surprises. An earnings surprise occurs when the actual earnings reported by a company differ significantly from the expected figures. A positive earnings surprise, specifically, is when the earnings are above what analysts predicted, which often leads to an uptick in the stock price as market confidence grows. Investors who can predict which stocks are likely to report positive surprises can position themselves to potentially capitalize on the subsequent stock appreciation.

The Zacks Earnings ESP Method

To aid investors in predicting earnings surprises, the Zacks Earnings Expected Surprise Prediction (ESP) tool is known for its efficiency in forecasting the likelihood of an earnings beat. The ESP is a quantitative model that compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings. Stocks with a positive Earnings ESP and a favorable Zacks Rank are considered to be strong candidates for surpassing earnings expectations.

Spotlight on RBLX and CROX

When focusing on consumer discretionary stocks, it's crucial to consider companies like RBLX, known for its expansive virtual universe allowing users to create and play games, and CROX, a company that has redefined casual footwear and accessories for various demographics. Undoubtedly, the burgeoning demand for gaming and comfortable lifestyle wear gives these companies a unique positioning that could bode well for investors hunting for earnings surprises.

Crocs, Inc. CROX, headquartered in Broomfield, Colorado, has grown from a simple footwear company to a global brand recognized for its innovation in casual lifestyle products for men, women, and children. As earnings season approaches, companies like CROX attract the attention of investors who are eager to find stocks that can deliver beyond expectations.

Final Thoughts for Investors

Investors looking for consumer discretionary stocks with a positive outlook should conduct a thorough analysis, keeping an eye out for those with a positive Zacks Earnings ESP. While past performance is not always indicative of future results, utilizing this tool can provide an edge when evaluating the earnings potential of stocks like RBLX and CROX. Cautious optimism coupled with diligent research may lead to rewarding investment decisions ahead of earnings announcements.

earnings, investment, stocks