Core Insights - CME Group Inc. is anticipated to show improvements in both revenue and earnings for the second quarter of 2025, with revenue expected to reach $1.68 billion, reflecting a 9.4% year-over-year growth [1] - The consensus estimate for earnings per share is $2.90, indicating a 13.2% increase from the previous year, although this estimate has seen a downward adjustment of 5.7% to 1.3% in the last 30 days [2] Revenue and Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter revenues is $1.68 billion, which is a 9.4% increase from the prior year [1] - The earnings estimate is $2.90 per share, with a year-over-year increase of 13.2% [2] - CME Group has an Earnings ESP of +0.93%, with the Most Accurate Estimate at $2.93, suggesting a potential earnings beat [3] Factors Influencing Performance - The second-quarter performance is expected to benefit from a diverse product portfolio, increased market volatility, and a strong market position [4] - Higher trading volumes across asset classes are likely to drive clearing and transaction fees, projected at $1.3 billion, a 7.7% increase from the previous year [5] - CME reported a record average daily volume of 30.2 million contracts, up 16% year-over-year, with international ADV reaching 9.2 million contracts, an 18% increase [6][10] Revenue Breakdown - Market data and information services revenues are expected to be $196.7 million, reflecting a 12.4% increase from the prior year, driven by price increases and higher device counts [7] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for market data and information services revenues is $195 million, indicating an 11.4% increase from the previous year [7] Expense Projections - Anticipated expenses for the quarter are $513.9 million, representing an 8.4% increase from the year-ago figure, primarily due to higher compensation, benefits, and technology expenses [8]

Core Insights - Union Pacific Corporation (UNP) is set to report its second-quarter 2025 results on July 24, with earnings estimated at $2.89 per share, reflecting a 5.47% increase year-over-year [1] - The revenue estimate for the same quarter is $6.11 billion, indicating a 1.7% rise from the previous year [1] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Q2 2025 earnings has been revised upward by 1.76% over the past 60 days [2] - The current earnings estimate for Q1 2025 is $2.89, while the previous estimates were $2.88 (7 days ago) and $2.84 (30 days ago) [2] - The average earnings surprise for UNP over the last four quarters is 1.18%, with two quarters exceeding estimates and two falling short [2] Revenue and Market Conditions - Freight revenues are expected to be $5.7 billion, showing a decline from Q1 2025 [4] - Other revenues are estimated at $339.8 million, representing a 1.1% increase from Q4 2024 [5] - The freight market downturn and a soft consumer market are anticipated to negatively impact margins and revenues in Q2 [4] Cost Management and Operational Efficiency - Cost-cutting measures are expected to support the bottom line, with operating expenses projected to decline compared to the previous year [6] - The operating ratio is expected to improve by 20 basis points to 60.2% in Q2 2025 [6] Shareholder Returns - Union Pacific is committed to rewarding shareholders, with a capital plan of $3.4 billion and share repurchases between $4 billion and $4.5 billion [7] - Strong free cash flow supports these shareholder-friendly initiatives [7] Earnings Prediction Model - The earnings prediction model indicates a potential earnings beat for Union Pacific, supported by a positive Earnings ESP of +0.50% and a Zacks Rank of 3 [8]

Core Viewpoint - Baker Hughes (BKR) is expected to report second-quarter 2025 results on July 22, with indications of a decline in both earnings and revenues compared to the previous year [1][7]. Group 1: Earnings Performance - In the last reported quarter, BKR's adjusted earnings were 51 cents per share, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 47 cents, driven by higher demand for natural gas technology and improved EBITDA margins [2]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter earnings per share is 55 cents, reflecting a 3.5% decline from the prior year's reported figure [2]. - The estimated revenue for the second quarter is $6.6 billion, indicating a 7.1% decline from the year-ago figure [2]. Group 2: Market Conditions - The average WTI spot prices for April, May, and June were $63.54, $62.17, and $68.17 per barrel, respectively, suggesting a favorable pricing environment for exploration and production companies [3]. - The advantageous crude pricing is expected to boost demand for oilfield services, aiding exploration and production players in efficiently managing oil and gas wells [3]. Group 3: Order and Revenue Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for BKR's total orders is $6.8 billion, down from $7.5 billion reported in the same quarter last year [4]. - Orders from the Oilfield Services & Equipment business are estimated at $3.5 billion, lower than the $4.1 billion reported in the previous year [4]. - Revenue from the Oilfield Services & Equipment segment is projected to decline by 10% year-over-year, which may negatively impact overall results for the upcoming quarter [5][7]. Group 4: Earnings Expectations - The current Earnings ESP for BKR is +3.03%, but the model does not indicate a definitive earnings beat this time [6][8]. - BKR holds a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell), which suggests a less favorable outlook compared to other stocks in the sector [8].

Core Viewpoint - Chubb Limited (CB) is anticipated to show improvements in both revenue and earnings for the second quarter of 2025, with a revenue estimate of $14.83 billion, reflecting a 7% year-over-year growth [1] Revenue and Earnings Estimates - The consensus estimate for earnings per share (EPS) is $5.85, indicating an 8.7% year-over-year increase, with a slight upward revision of 0.1% in the past 30 days [2] - The Earnings ESP for Chubb Limited stands at +1.11%, with the Most Accurate Estimate at $5.91, suggesting a favorable outlook for an earnings beat [3] Factors Influencing Q2 Results - Premium growth is expected across most product lines, driven by strong retention, rate increases, and new business [4][9] - The International Life Insurance segment is projected to benefit from strong new business in North Asia, particularly in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Korea, with net premiums earned estimated at $13.1 billion, a 6.7% increase from the previous year [5] - Net investment income is forecasted to be $1.9 billion, benefiting from higher average invested assets and reinvestment rates, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate at $1.8 billion [6] Underwriting Profitability and Expenses - Improved pricing, increased exposure, and prudent underwriting are expected to enhance underwriting profitability, leading to a combined ratio estimate of 85%, an improvement of 200 basis points [7] - Total expenses are anticipated to rise to $10.3 billion due to higher losses, policy benefits, and administrative costs, although share buybacks are expected to support the bottom line [8]

Core Viewpoint - AT&T Inc. is set to report its second-quarter 2025 earnings on July 23, with revenue and earnings estimates at $30.53 billion and 51 cents per share respectively, remaining unchanged over the past 60 days [1][8]. Earnings Performance - The company has delivered an average earnings surprise of 2.64% over the last four quarters [3]. - The earnings estimates for the upcoming quarter show a slight negative surprise of -2.60% with a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [5]. Revenue and Growth Factors - AT&T's revenue and EPS estimates are driven by its Communications segment, with projected revenues of $29.39 billion from this segment [8][14]. - The company has expanded its fiber reach to 30 million locations and has agreed to acquire Lumen's fiber assets for $5.75 billion, which will enhance its competitive position [9][10]. Competitive Landscape - The U.S. wireless market remains highly competitive, with challenges from major players like T-Mobile and Verizon affecting AT&T's margins [15][22]. - AT&T's new wireless plans targeting customers aged 55 and above are expected to improve customer engagement in this demographic [11]. Strategic Initiatives - The company is collaborating with AST SpaceMobile to develop satellite-based cellular connectivity, which could benefit first responders and public safety applications [12]. - A strategic agreement with Palo Alto Networks aims to enhance data protection for businesses through a secure access service edge solution [13]. Valuation Metrics - AT&T's shares are trading at a forward P/E ratio of 12.56, which is lower than the industry average of 12.96 but above its historical mean of 10.94 [19]. Investment Considerations - The company is focused on enhancing its network infrastructure, particularly in 5G and fiber networks, to improve coverage and capacity [21]. - Despite solid subscriber growth, intense competition and promotional spending are straining margins, with a current ratio of 0.7 indicating potential short-term liquidity challenges [22].

Core Insights - Equifax (EFX) is set to report its second-quarter 2025 results on July 22, with earnings expected to be $1.92 per share, reflecting a 5.5% year-over-year increase, and revenues projected at $1.51 billion, indicating a 5.9% rise year-over-year [1][8] Revenue Expectations - Revenue growth is anticipated to be driven by improved segmental performances, with strong margin expansion benefiting the bottom line [2] - Workforce Solutions revenues are estimated to grow marginally to $652.8 million, while U.S. Information Solutions (USIS) revenues are expected to reach $509.2 million, a 6.5% increase from the previous year, largely due to strong mortgage performance [3][8] - Total international revenues are projected to increase by 6.5% to $361.3 million, supported by robust growth in Latin America, Canada, Australia, and Europe [4][8] EBITDA Projections - Adjusted EBITDA for the USIS and International segments is expected to grow by 13.2% to $179.6 million and by 9.7% to $95.3 million, respectively, driven by strong revenue growth and disciplined cost execution [4][8] - Adjusted EBITDA for Workplace Solutions is anticipated to be $339.3 million, reflecting a 4.8% increase from the previous year [5] Earnings Prediction Model - The model indicates a likely earnings beat for Equifax, supported by a positive Earnings ESP of +1.46% and a Zacks Rank of 3 [6]

Core Viewpoint - Citizens Financial Group, Inc. (CFG) is expected to report an increase in second-quarter 2025 earnings and revenues compared to the same quarter last year, with various factors influencing this performance [1][18]. Financial Performance Expectations - CFG's net interest income (NII) is projected to rise by 3% in Q2 2025 from the previous quarter, supported by stable interest rates maintained by the Federal Reserve [3][11]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NII is $1.44 billion, reflecting a 3.2% increase from the prior quarter [4]. - The consensus estimate for second-quarter revenues is $2.01 billion, indicating a 2.2% rise from the year-ago figure [18]. Loan and Asset Quality Insights - Despite macroeconomic uncertainties, demand for commercial and industrial loans and consumer loans is expected to have improved, leading to a modest rise in CFG's lending activities [5]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for average interest-earning assets is $196.2 billion, showing a slight increase from the previous quarter [6]. - Non-accrual loans are estimated to rise to $1.62 billion, a 2.4% increase sequentially, indicating potential concerns regarding asset quality [15]. Non-Interest Income and Fee Growth - Mortgage banking fees are expected to increase to $63 million, a 6.6% rise from the prior quarter, driven by improved refinancing activities [8]. - Trust and investment services fees are projected to reach $84 million, reflecting a 3.7% increase from the previous quarter [9]. - Capital markets fees are estimated at $108.4 million, indicating an 8.4% sequential rise, supported by improved deal-making activities in the latter part of the quarter [12][10]. Expense Management - CFG anticipates that adjusted non-interest expenses will remain stable compared to the first quarter, despite increased costs from new banking offices and technology investments [14].

Core Viewpoint - Fastenal Company (FAST) is expected to report its second-quarter 2025 results on July 14, with earnings per share estimated at 28 cents, reflecting a 12% year-over-year growth, and net sales projected at $2.06 billion, indicating a 7.6% increase from the previous year [1][2]. Group 1: Sales Performance - Fastenal's net sales in the last reported quarter exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.5%, with a year-over-year increase of 3.4% [1]. - The average daily sales (ADS) for May 2025 grew by 9.3% to $32.7 million, showing a 4.1% increase from April 2025 [3]. - In May 2025, daily sales in Heavy Manufacturing and Other Manufacturing increased by 8.6% and 12.8%, respectively, while Non-residential Construction grew by 3.3% [4]. Group 2: Growth Drivers - The anticipated growth in sales is attributed to improved customer contract signing trends, enhanced digital presence, and increased investments in sales resources [2]. - A balanced mix of onsite and offsite services, along with market share gains across various product categories, is expected to contribute to the sales uptick [2]. - Daily sales growth for contract and non-contract customers was 12% and 4%, respectively, with eBusiness sales increasing by 14% in May [4]. Group 3: Margin and Cost Management - Fastenal's bottom line is projected to improve due to active cost control measures aimed at countering cost inflation, including warehouse automation and increased delivery efficiency [6]. - Despite facing elevated occupancy and employee-related expenses, the company is expected to achieve a 12% growth in EPS driven by sales growth and margin expansion initiatives [7]. - Total operating expenses as a percentage of net sales are expected to contract by 60 basis points to 24.3% for the upcoming quarter [8]. Group 4: Earnings Prediction - The Zacks model predicts an earnings beat for Fastenal, supported by a positive Earnings ESP of +3.05% and a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [9][10].

Core Viewpoint - Delta Air Lines is expected to report its second-quarter 2025 results on July 10, with earnings anticipated to be lower than the previous year despite a slight upward revision in estimates [1][2]. Group 1: Earnings Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Delta's Q2 2025 earnings is $1.99 per share, reflecting a 15.7% decline from the same quarter last year [2]. - Delta has outperformed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in two of the last four quarters, with an average beat of 3.96% [1]. Group 2: Revenue Expectations - The revenue estimate for Q2 2025 is $16.18 billion, indicating a 2.89% year-over-year decline [5]. - Delta has provided a cautious outlook for Q2 2025, projecting adjusted revenues to either decline by 2% or increase by up to 2% year-over-year [5]. Group 3: Influencing Factors - Geopolitical uncertainty, tariff pressures, and persistent inflation are expected to negatively impact Delta's operations and travel demand, particularly in international and business segments [3]. - Rising labor costs are projected to increase by 13.2% compared to Q2 2024, which may pressure margins and revenue [4]. - Low oil prices, which decreased by 6% in the April-June 2025 period, could help offset some cost pressures for Delta [6]. Group 4: Earnings Prediction Model - Delta has an Earnings ESP of +0.26% and a Zacks Rank of 3, suggesting a potential earnings beat this quarter [7].

Core Viewpoint - Snap's stock has shown a recent increase, but analysts express caution regarding its future performance and valuation [1][4]. Group 1: Earnings Performance - Snap's Q1 earnings report in April exceeded expectations with a profit of $0.08 per share, doubling consensus forecasts [3]. - For the upcoming Q2 report on July 31, forecasts predict a significant slowdown, with earnings expected to be only $0.01 per share and sales growth projected at high-single digits, approximately $1.3 billion [3][4]. Group 2: Analyst Sentiment - Edgewater Research believes that the consensus forecasts for Snap are overly pessimistic and sees potential for an earnings beat due to the company's momentum in direct-response advertising [4]. - Despite this optimism, Edgewater maintains a neutral rating on Snap, reflecting concerns about the broader economic environment's impact on advertising revenues [4]. Group 3: Valuation Concerns - Snap's current valuation exceeds 46 times its trailing free cash flow, which raises questions about its sustainability given the company's recent sales growth of only 8% and negative GAAP earnings [5]. - To justify such a high valuation, Snap would need to demonstrate significant growth in both sales and earnings, rather than merely avoiding further declines [5][6].