ACE Limited (NYSE: ACE) reported earnings on Jan. 31. Here are the numbers you need to know.

The 10-second takeaway
For the quarter ended Dec. 31 (Q4), ACE Limited beat expectations on revenues and beat expectations on earnings per share.

Compared to the prior-year quarter, revenue increased, and GAAP earnings per share dropped significantly.

Margins dropped across the board.

Revenue details
ACE Limited booked revenue of $3.63 billion. The eight analysts polled by S&P Capital IQ expected net sales of $3.51 billion. Sales were 3.1% higher than the prior-year quarter's $3.42 billion.

Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Dollar amounts in millions.

EPS details
Non-GAAP EPS came in at $1.94. The 19 earnings estimates compiled by S&P Capital IQ forecast $1.79 per share on the same basis. GAAP EPS of $2.20 for Q4 were 25% lower than the prior-year quarter's $2.93 per share.

Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Figures may be non-GAAP to maintain comparability with estimates.

Margin details
For the quarter, gross margin was 32.4%, 550 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter. Operating margin was 20.7%, 500 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter. Net margin was 16.7%, 630 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter.

Looking ahead
Next quarter's average estimate for revenue is $3.61 billion. On the bottom line, the average EPS estimate is $1.86.

Next year's average estimate for revenue is $15.23 billion. The average EPS estimate is $7.48.

Investor sentiment
Of Wall Street recommendations tracked by S&P Capital IQ, the average opinion on ACE Limited is outperform, with an average price target of $77.00.

Can your portfolio provide you with enough income to last through retirement? You'll need more than ACE Limited. Learn how to maximize your investment income and "Secure Your Future With 11 Rock-Solid Dividend Stocks." Click here for instant access to this free report.