We expect cable multi service operator (MSO) Comcast Corporation (CMCSA) to beat expectations when it reports fourth-quarter 2012 results before the opening bell on Feb 13, 2013.

Why a Likely Positive Surprise?

Our proven model shows that Comcast Corporation is likely to beat earnings because it has the right combination of two key ingredients.

Positive Zacks ESP: Expected Surprise Prediction or ESP (Read: Zacks Earnings ESP: A Better Method), which represents the difference between the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate, stands at +1.89%. This is a meaningful and leading indicator of a likely positive earnings surprise.

Zacks #3 Rank (Hold): Comcast Corporation currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Note that the stocks with Zacks Ranks of #1, #2 and #3 have a significantly higher chance of beating the earnings. 

The combination of Comcast Corporation’s Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) and +1.89% ESP makes us confident of a positive earnings beat on Feb 13, 2013.

What is Driving the Better Than Expected Earnings?

Comcast Corporation is poised for a better performance as the company’s cable business continues to introduce innovative products and enhance its customers viewing experience. The company’s NBC Universal segment is expected to perform well which underscores the strong performance of its cable business. 

The Company’s Xfinity TV, which provides access to both video programming and Internet continue to innovate new products and services and is expected to augment its online TV business. However, the loss of basic video customers remains the major concern for the company going forward.

Other Stocks to Consider

Other companies you may want to consider on the basis of our model, which shows that they have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter are as follows:

Clearwire Corp. (CLWR) currently has an earnings ESP of +29.17% and holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

Tivo Inc(TIVO) has an earnings ESP of +8.33% and carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

Cablevision Sys Corp. (CVC) currently has an earnings ESP of +10.00% and holds a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).


 
CLEARWIRE CORP (CLWR): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
COMCAST CORP A (CMCSA): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
CABLEVISION SYS (CVC): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
TIVO INC (TIVO): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
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