Bull of the Day: AECOM (ACM)

Core Insights - AECOM has raised its full year earnings guidance due to a record backlog and is expected to see double-digit earnings growth in fiscal years 2026 and 2027 [1][5][6] Company Performance - AECOM reported fiscal first quarter 2026 earnings of $1.29, missing the Zacks Consensus estimate of $1.41 by $0.12, marking the first miss in seven quarters [3] - Despite the earnings miss, the company's backlog increased by 9%, reaching a record level, supported by significant global projects [3][7] Strategic Developments - AECOM has been selected for major projects, including a multi-billion-dollar investment program for Scottish Water and as a Delivery Partner for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games [4] - The company has decided to retain its Construction Management business after reviewing strategic alternatives, citing a strong backlog and pipeline [9] Financial Guidance - AECOM raised its earnings outlook for fiscal 2026 to a range of $5.85 to $6.05, up from the previous guidance of $5.65 to $5.85, exceeding the Zacks Consensus [5][6] - Analysts have adjusted their earnings estimates upward, with the Zacks Consensus for fiscal 2026 now at $5.98, reflecting a 13.7% growth from last year's earnings of $5.26 [6] Shareholder Returns - The Board of Directors has increased the share repurchase authorization to $1 billion, demonstrating a commitment to returning value to shareholders [7][13] - AECOM returned over $340 million to shareholders through repurchases and dividends in the fiscal first quarter, with a dividend yield of 1.4% [12]