Citrix Systems Earnings Preview: Analysts Expect Higher EPS, Revenue

Citrix Systems (NASDAQ: CTXS) releases its next round of earnings this Thursday, October 27, 2011. Here's Benzinga's advanced look at Citrix Systems' third quarter earnings report.

Earnings and Revenue:

Based on estimates, investors are readying for a positive EPS reading of 48 cents/share and revenues of $544.8 million. Citrix Systems' latest numbers will no doubt be compared with the company's year-ago quarter, when it reported a profit of 46 cents/share on revenues of $472.2 million. We'll know on Thursday whether Citrix Systems has managed the estimated 4.3% increase in EPS and 15.4% rise 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:

At last check, shares of Citrix Systems were trading at $64.44. Shares are down 5.8% year to date. For a full 12 months, the return has declined by 2%. 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 Citrix Systems is a Hold. The strength of this rating has declined slightly over the past three months.

Competitors:

Looking for a sympathy stock to trade or interested in the performance of other companies in the same sector? Take a look at some of Citrix Systems' peers.

• Adobe Systems (NASDAQ: ADBE): Hold with a $0.44 recent quarter EPS
• Cisco Systems (NASDAQ: CSCO): Hold with a $0.35 recent quarter EPS
• Hewlett-Packard Company (NYSE: HPQ): Hold with a $1.10 recent quarter EPS
• International Business Machines (NYSE: IBM): Moderate Buy with a $3.28 recent quarter EPS

The computer software company's industry has seen price/earnings growth of 1.8% during the current fiscal year.

Finally, a description of the company's main areas of operation: Citrix Systems develops technology solutions that allow applications to be delivered and shared on-demand with cost-effective, enhanced security.

Take Action:

There is your peek into Citrix Systems' upcoming earnings numbers, including some competitors to watch around the time of the announcement. Check back in with us after the announcement for a full recap. In the meantime, here are some links to explore today.

• To see up-to-date news on Citrix Systems, click here
• To see other trading ideas, click here
• To see other company earnings recaps, click here