Fastenal (Nasdaq: FAST) is expected to report Q4 earnings around Jan. 18. Here's what Wall Street wants to see:

The 10-second takeaway
 Comparing the upcoming quarter to the prior-year quarter, average analyst estimates predict Fastenal's revenues will grow 8.8% and EPS will expand 13.3%.

The average estimate for revenue is $759.5 million. On the bottom line, the average EPS estimate is $0.34.

Revenue details
 Last quarter, Fastenal chalked up revenue of $802.6 million. GAAP reported sales were 10% higher than the prior-year quarter's $726.7 million.

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

EPS details
 Last quarter, EPS came in at $0.37. GAAP EPS of $0.37 for Q3 were 12% higher than the prior-year quarter's $0.33 per share.

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

Recent performance
 For the preceding quarter, gross margin was 51.6%, 30 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter. Operating margin was 21.9%, 60 basis points better than the prior-year quarter. Net margin was 13.6%, 30 basis points better than the prior-year quarter.

Looking ahead

The full year's average estimate for revenue is $3.14 billion. The average EPS estimate is $1.42.

Investor sentiment

Of Wall Street recommendations tracked by S&P Capital IQ, the average opinion on Fastenal is hold, with an average price target of $43.29.

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