Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.
What: Shares of United Rentals
So what: The company absolutely crushed expectations in the fourth quarter with revenue increasing 25% to $746 million and adjusted earnings per share hitting $0.89. Analysts had only expected $688 million in revenue and $0.58 in earnings per share, so the company certainly shocked most observers.
Now what: Considering how soundly the company beat expectations, I'm a little surprised the stock isn't up more. The company has crushed expectations for two consecutive quarters now and shares still trade at just over 14 times 2012 earnings estimates. I think the company can outperform that given its recent strength, and I will even make a CAPSCall on it, adding an outperform rating in My CAPS page to back it up.
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