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 chemical maker Celanese (CE +2.10%) jumped as much as 16% today after the company released earnings.
So what: Revenue fell slightly in the first quarter, to $1.61 billion, but adjusted earnings per share jumped 44%, to $1.14. Revenue was in line with expectations, and earnings crushed the $0.79 that analysts expected.
Now what: The earnings momentum looks strong on an adjusted basis, but GAAP earnings per share actually fell from $1.21 a year ago, to $0.89 during the first quarter, due to a higher tax provision. I'd like to see more top-line growth before diving in, but the company is generating strong EBITDA growth, which is a great sign. I'll sit out this move for now but, at 9.2 times forward earnings, the stock is a reasonable risk for more bullish investors.
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