Marsh & McLennan Earnings Preview: Revenue, EPS Expected to Rise

Marsh & McLennan MMC unveils its next round of earnings this Wednesday, August 3, 2011. Get prepared with Benzinga's ultimate preview for Marsh & McLennan's second quarter earnings.

Earnings and Revenue:

Analysts are looking ahead to a positive EPS of 48 cents per share and revenues of $2.82 billion. Whether the reported numbers beat or miss analysts' estimates, they will also be compared against last year's numbers for the same period, which were a profit of 46 cents per share on revenues of $2.61 billion. We'll have to wait for Wednesday to see if Marsh & McLennan has accomplished the estimated 4.3% rise in EPS and 8% 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:

At last check, shares of Marsh & McLennan were trading at $29.30. Shares are up 9.5% year to date. For a full 12 months, the return has risen by 26.2%. 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 Marsh & McLennan is a Hold. 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 Marsh & McLennan's peers in that sector.

• Arthur J. Gallagher & AJG: Hold with a $0.42 recent quarter EPS
• Aon AON: Moderate Buy with a $0.80 recent quarter EPS
• Brown & Brown BRO: Hold with a $0.26 recent quarter EPS
• CNInsure CISG: Moderate Sell with a $0.25 recent quarter EPS

Marsh & McLennan is in the insurance brokerage industry, which has experienced price/earnings growth of 1.6%.

Finally, a description of the company's main areas of operation: Marsh & McLennan is a global professional services firm providing advice and solutions in the areas of risk, strategy and human capital.

Take Action:

Now that you have reviewed all the numbers, be ready to move if the upcoming Marsh & McLennan 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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