Charles Schwab Earnings Preview: Analysts Expect Higher EPS, Revenue

Charles Schwab (NYSE: SCHW) unveils its next round of earnings this Monday, October 17, 2011. Here's Benzinga's advanced look at Charles Schwab's third quarter earnings report.

Earnings and Revenue:

Analysts are predicting an EPS reading of 19 cents/share and revenues of $1.19 billion. Charles Schwab's latest numbers will no doubt be compared with the company's year-ago quarter, when it reported a profit of 10 cents/share on revenues of $1.06 billion. We'll have to wait for Monday to see if Charles Schwab has accomplished the estimated 90% rise in EPS and 12.3% increase in revenues on a year-over-year basis.

Here's how the company's reported EPS has stacked up against analyst estimates in the past:

Stock Performance:

Shares of Charles Schwab were trading at $12.23 as of October 11, 2011. Shares are down 27.7% year to date. For a full 12 months, the return has declined by 11.5%. Given that these returns are generally negative, long-term shareholders are probably a little upset going into this earnings release.

• Long-term shareholders are already wary of 12-month losses prior to the announcement

Average Stock Rating:

The average rating by analysts for Charles Schwab is a Moderate Buy. This rating has strengthened slightly over the past ninety days.

Competitors:

Wondering how some of the other financials companies are doing? Here are a few of Charles Schwab's peers in that sector.

• TD AMERITRADE (NASDAQ: AMTD): Moderate Buy with a $0.27 recent quarter EPS
• Bank of America (NYSE: BAC): Hold with a -$0.90 recent quarter EPS
• E*Trade (NASDAQ: ETFC): Hold with a $0.16 recent quarter EPS
• Interactive Brokers Group (NASDAQ: IBKR): Hold with a $0.22 recent quarter EPS

The financial/investment brokers company's industry has seen price/earnings growth of 0.8% during the current fiscal year.

Finally, a description of the company's main areas of operation: Charles Schwab is a savings and loan holding company. Through its subsidiaries, the company provides individuals and institutional clients with securities brokerage, banking and related financial services.

Take Action:

That's your advanced look at Charles Schwab's upcoming earnings numbers -- be ready to take quick action if the company's report contains any surprises. Also, check back in with us after the announcement for a full recap and what-to-do-next guide.

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