While many big name companies have already reported earnings, next week is still jam-packed with earnings reports. On Thursday, networking giant Cisco Systems (CSCO 0.20%) will release its fiscal first quarter results, the second report under new CEO Chuck Robbins. Cisco is growing again following a sluggish 2014, and investors should look for continued revenue growth during the first quarter.
Also on Thursday, semiconductor equipment company Applied Materials (AMAT -2.35%) will report its fourth quarter results. Applied Materials has seen its stock tank so far this year, despite generally positive results but capital spending cuts at semiconductor manufacturers cloud the company's near-term results. Applied Materials' guidance may prove to be overly optimistic.
On Friday, beleaguered department store J.C. Penney (JCPN.Q)is set to report before the market opens. J.C. Penney has been making progress in its turnaround efforts, but the company is still losing money, and a return to profitability is likely still years away.
Click through the following slideshow for an overview of why Cisco, Applied Materials, and J.C. Penney are three stocks to watch next week.
