As companies relentlessly slash earnings estimates, the market finds itself navigating uncharted waters, forcing investors to rethink their strategies and adapt to a new financial landscape.
The recent decline in fourth-quarter earnings estimates is causing concern in the stock market. Previously, the S&P 500 was expected to see an 11% earnings gain for the fourth quarter, but that expectation has now dropped to 7.8%. This decline in expectations is significant and is reflected in the stock prices of companies.
According to data from FactSet and Earnings Scout, of the 281 companies that have reported so far, 60% have had their estimates cut for the fourth quarter, with an average decline of 2.2%. This is a faster decline compared to previous quarters. Some companies, like Boeing, have seen substantial earnings cuts, with expectations changing from a profit to a loss.
The sectors that have been hit the hardest include airlines, cruise lines, media/entertainment, automotive, pharmaceuticals, energy, technology, food products, and banks/capital markets. Companies in these sectors have seen earnings estimates decline by 10% or more since the start of the fourth quarter.
In contrast, only a small number of companies, such as Intel and Amazon, have seen increases in their earnings estimates for the fourth quarter.
The stock market has already reacted to these changes, with stock prices dropping for autos, airlines, energy, and pharmaceuticals. The market is a powerful indicator of earnings trends, although it is not always accurate in the long term.
Looking ahead, the stock market’s poor performance in the past three months, coupled with the traditionally strong showing in November and December, presents a positive setup for the end of the year. However, the geopolitical landscape adds uncertainty to the outlook.
Despite concerns of a recession, some experts believe that the rate scare will dissipate, and the recession crowd has been proven wrong throughout the year. The market is currently pricing in a lot of bad news, which gives an advantage to the bulls.
In conclusion, the trend in earnings estimates for the fourth quarter is declining, leading to drops in stock prices for various sectors. The stock market is a reliable indicator of earnings trends, and while there may be short-term uncertainties, the overall outlook remains cautiously optimistic.
