First Solar is Set to Post Q4 Earnings: What's in Store?

Core Viewpoint - First Solar, Inc. is set to report its fourth-quarter 2024 results on February 25, with expectations of revenue growth despite challenges from low-cost competition in the Indian market [1][4]. Group 1: Earnings Expectations - First Solar delivered a negative earnings surprise of 6.13% in the last quarter, but has a four-quarter average earnings surprise of 8.32% [2]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings per share (EPS) is $4.69, indicating a year-over-year growth of 44.3$1.47 billion, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 26.9% [4]. Group 2: Production and Market Factors - The company has been expanding its production capacity, including the opening of a new solar module factory in Alabama, which is expected to boost module shipments and revenues [3]. - However, pricing pressure from Chinese manufacturers selling low-cost solar panels in India may have negatively impacted First Solar's sales in that market [4]. - Solid revenue growth expectations are supported by a higher sales mix of modules qualifying for the advanced manufacturing production credit under Section 45X of the IRC [5]. Group 3: Earnings Prediction Model - The current model does not predict an earnings beat for First Solar, as the Earnings ESP is -1.72% and the company holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [7][8].