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 natural and organic foods distributor Hain Celestial Group (HAIN 3.87%) popped 12% today after its quarterly results and outlook topped Wall Street expectations.
So what: The stock has rallied nicely in 2013 on better-than-expected growth, and today's fourth-quarter results -- income rose 11% on a revenue surge of 32% -- coupled with upbeat full-year guidance suggests that the operating momentum isn't slowing. In fact, adjusted operating margin expanded 40 basis points year over year to 10.7%, suggesting that its cost structure and competitive position are improving as well.
Now what: Management now sees full-year EPS of $2.95 to $3.05 on revenue of $2.03 billion to $2.05 billion, nicely above Wall Street's view of $2.94 and $2.01 billion. "Our business continues to benefit from strong growth trends across our organic and natural brand portfolio," said Founder and CEO Irwin Simon. "As we approach the 20th anniversary of the Company, we are better positioned than ever before to execute on our strategic initiatives and capitalize on the tremendous opportunities in front of us." So while I'd be cautious about loading up too heavily at these levels, the stock is certainly worth following given the strong health trends working in its favor.
