Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK) reported earnings on Jan. 30. Here are the numbers you need to know.

The 10-second takeaway
For the quarter ended Dec. 31 (Q1), Rockwell Automation met expectations on revenues and missed estimates on earnings per share.

Compared to the prior-year quarter, revenue expanded slightly and GAAP earnings per share contracted.

Margins dropped across the board.

Revenue details
Rockwell Automation chalked up revenue of $1.49 billion. The 13 analysts polled by S&P Capital IQ expected a top line of $1.48 billion on the same basis. GAAP reported sales were 1.0% higher than the prior-year quarter's $1.47 billion.

Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Dollar amounts in millions. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.

EPS details
EPS came in at $1.23. The 17 earnings estimates compiled by S&P Capital IQ forecast $1.26 per share. GAAP EPS of $1.15 for Q1 were 9.4% lower than the prior-year quarter's $1.27 per share.

Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.

Margin details
For the quarter, gross margin was 40.8%, 120 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter. Operating margin was 15.7%, 170 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter. Net margin was 10.8%, 160 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter.

Looking ahead
Next quarter's average estimate for revenue is $1.59 billion. On the bottom line, the average EPS estimate is $1.30.

Next year's average estimate for revenue is $6.48 billion. The average EPS estimate is $5.56.

Investor sentiment

Of Wall Street recommendations tracked by S&P Capital IQ, the average opinion on Rockwell Automation is outperform, with an average price target of $85.00.

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