Earnings Preview: National Oilwell Varco's EPS, Revenue Expected to Rise

National Oilwell Varco (NYSE: NOV) unveils its next round of earnings this Tuesday, October 25, 2011. Here is Benzinga's everything-that-matters guide for this Tuesday's third quarter earnings announcement.

Earnings and Revenue:

Analysts are predicting an EPS reading of $1.17/share and revenues of $3.66 billion. National Oilwell Varco's latest numbers will no doubt be compared with the company's year-ago quarter, when it reported a profit of 97 cents/share on revenues of $3.01 billion. Can National Oilwell Varco manage the estimated 20.6% rise in EPS and 21.6% increase in revenues from the year-ago quarter as analysts are predicting? We'll have to wait until Tuesday to find out.

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

Stock Performance:

Shares of National Oilwell Varco were trading at $64.15 as of October 19, 2011. Since January 1st, shares of National Oilwell Varco have declined 4.2%. For a full 12 months, the return has risen by 23.8%. Given that these returns are generally positive, long-term shareholders are probably satisfied going into this earnings release.

• Long-term shareholders are already enjoying 12-month gains prior to the announcement

Average Stock Rating:

The average rating by analysts for National Oilwell Varco is a Moderate Buy. The strength of this rating has declined slightly over the past three months.

Competitors:

Want to check out the performance of National Oilwell Varco closest competitors? Take a look at some of the company's peers in the energy sector.

• Baker Hughes (NYSE: BHI): Moderate Buy with a $0.93 recent quarter EPS
• Cameron International (NYSE: CAM): Moderate Buy with a $0.66 recent quarter EPS
• FMC Technologies (NYSE: FTI): Hold with a $0.39 recent quarter EPS
• Flotek Industries (NYSE: FTK): Strong Buy with a $0.04 recent quarter EPS

National Oilwell Varco is in the oil field machines and equipment industry, which has experienced price/earnings growth of 0.8%.

Finally, a description of the company's main areas of operation: National Oilwell Varco provides equipment and components used in oil and gas drilling and production operations, oilfield services, and supply chain integration services.

Take Action:

Now that you have reviewed all the numbers, be ready to move if the upcoming National Oilwell Varco earnings report has any surprises. Also, come back to Benzinga after the announcement for a full recap and a guide to your next steps.

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