Analysts Are Leaning Heavily Toward The Bullish Side Ahead Of Priceline's Earnings

Ahead of Priceline Group Inc (NASDAQ: PCLN) earnings announcement after today's closing bell, investors and analysts remain bullish on the stock. The stock gained about 8 percent after the company declared its second quarter results on August 4.

One of the reasons for being so optimistic is that the company is one of the consistent positive surprise providers. In the last four quarters, its positive surprise ranged between 4.60 percent and 9.8 percent.

Another reason is that expectations have modestly come down. About 90 days back, Street analysts were expecting EPS of $29.73, which ticked up to $29.88 about 60 days ago. However, this was reduced to $29.54 a week back and currently stands at $29.32.

Some of the key expectations from different analysts are given below.

Street analysts’ expect EPS of $29.32 on revenue of $3.62 billion for the third quarter. That suggests Priceline may have achieved year-over-year EPS growth of 15.66 percent on revenue uptick of 16.6 percent. Similarly, on a quarter-over-quarter basis, EPS would have more than doubled on revenue growth of 41.7 percent. The company offered adjusted EPS forecast of $28.30-$29.80 for the third quarter when it announced its second quarter results.

Wells Fargo expects softening RevPAR, although occupancy could be the leading driver. The firm sees declaration in room night growth from 24 percent in the second quarter to 23 percent in the third quarter. The firm has a price range of $1450-$1470 on the stock.

Jefferies indicated that its analysis demonstrated that Priceline is gaining market share and well placed to deliver robust growth in booking and revenue despite soft travel trends around the globe. The firm cited its checks on properties and engagement suggesting continued growth. The brokerage has a Buy rating and target price of $1,700.

Susquehanna said that the market backdrop remains attractive for online travel agency market. Long-term upside is seen from organic performance as the company penetrates into hotel and private accommodations markets. The firm initiated its Positive view on the stock with a target price of $1,700.

TripAdvisor Inc. (NASDAQ: TRIP) will reveal its results for the third quarter on Tuesday.

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