Linde Gears Up to Report Q1 Earnings: What's in the Offing?

Core Viewpoint - Linde plc is expected to report its first-quarter 2025 results on May 1, with positive indicators from previous quarters suggesting a potential earnings beat due to strong performance in the Americas segment and favorable pricing dynamics [1][7]. Group 1: Previous Quarter Performance - In the last reported quarter, Linde's earnings were $3.97 per share, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.93, driven by higher pricing and increased volumes from the Americas segment [2]. - Linde has consistently beaten the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the last four quarters, with an average surprise of 1.45% [2]. Group 2: Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter earnings per share is $3.93, reflecting a 4.8% improvement from the prior-year quarter [3]. - The revenue estimate for the first quarter is $8.26 billion, indicating a year-over-year increase of 1.96% [3]. Group 3: Contributing Factors - Linde's position as a global leader in industrial gases, including oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen, supports its performance across various end markets such as healthcare and manufacturing [4]. - The Americas segment is expected to contribute significantly to profits, with operating profit estimated at $1.16 billion, up from $1.12 billion in the first quarter of 2024 [6]. - The Engineering business unit's operating profit is estimated at $96 million, an increase from $93 million a year ago, indicating overall positive demand and pricing dynamics [6]. Group 4: Earnings Prediction - The company's Earnings ESP is +0.30%, suggesting a strong likelihood of an earnings beat, supported by a Zacks Rank of 3 [7].