Core Viewpoint - Linde plc is expected to report its second-quarter 2025 results on August 1, with earnings per share estimated at $4.03 and revenues at $8.35 billion, reflecting a year-over-year improvement in earnings and revenues [1][3][9]. Group 1: Q1 Performance and Expectations - In the previous quarter, Linde's earnings were $3.95 per share, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.93, driven by higher pricing and increased volumes from the Americas segment [2]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter earnings per share is $4.03, indicating a 4.68% improvement from the prior-year quarter [2]. - The expected revenue for the second quarter is $8.35 billion, which represents a year-over-year increase of 1.04% [3]. Group 2: Market Position and Performance Factors - Linde is a global leader in industrial gas production, serving various end markets including healthcare, manufacturing, and chemicals & refining [4]. - The company is anticipated to maintain stable performance due to long-term contracts with major on-site clients and operations in resilient end markets such as healthcare and food and beverages [5]. - However, challenges may arise from tariffs and changes in trade policies, which could slow down industrial activity globally, particularly affecting demand in markets like China and Europe [6]. Group 3: Segment Performance Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for operating profit in the Americas segment is $1.19 billion, an increase from $1.16 billion in the second quarter of 2024 [7]. - The operating profit estimate for the Engineering business unit is $100 million, up from $96 million a year ago [7]. - These factors are expected to influence demand and pricing dynamics, potentially impacting Linde's quarterly performance [7].

Core Viewpoint - Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) is expected to report a significant decline in second-quarter earnings and revenues due to lower oil and natural gas prices, with earnings estimated at $1.49 per share, reflecting a 30.4% year-over-year decrease [2][6]. Financial Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter revenues is $82.8 billion, indicating an 11% decline from the previous year [2]. - XOM has consistently beaten earnings estimates in the past four quarters, with an average surprise of 3.58%, but the current model does not predict an earnings beat for this quarter [3][4]. Market Conditions - The average spot prices for West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil in the second quarter were lower than in the first quarter, with prices of $63.54, $62.17, and $68.17 per barrel for April, May, and June respectively, compared to $75.74, $71.53, and $68.24 per barrel in the first quarter [7]. - Lower oil prices are expected to reduce XOM's upstream earnings by $800 million to $1.2 billion, while natural gas price changes may decrease profits by $300 million to $700 million [8]. Valuation Metrics - XOM's current EV/EBITDA ratio is 6.90, which is above the industry average of 4.35, indicating that the stock may be overvalued despite its lower price compared to peers like BP and Chevron [6][11]. Strategic Developments - The acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources enhances XOM's production capabilities in the Permian Basin, a region known for low production costs [13]. - The company is also investing in alternative energy projects, such as carbon capture and lithium battery technology, which present potential growth opportunities but require significant capital [14]. Competitive Landscape - Other major energy players like Chevron and BP are also set to report second-quarter earnings, with Chevron having a positive Earnings ESP of +3.63% and BP at 0.00% [15][16].

Core Viewpoint - Edison International (EIX) is expected to report its second-quarter 2025 results on July 31, with prior earnings surprises indicating potential performance trends [1][5]. Group 1: Revenue Influences - The service territories of Edison International experienced moderate temperatures in Q2 2025, with above-normal temperatures in May likely increasing electricity usage and positively impacting revenues [2][8]. - Wildfires in California during the quarter may have caused outages and infrastructure damage, negatively affecting revenues [3][8]. - Lower operating revenues at Southern California Edison (SCE) due to reduced expenses passed through to customers may have contributed to a year-over-year decline in overall revenues [3][5]. Group 2: Earnings Expectations - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for EIX's sales is $4.27 billion, reflecting a 1.6% decrease from the previous year [5]. - The earnings estimate is set at 96 cents per share, indicating a decline of 21.3% compared to the prior-year quarter [5]. - Increased operating expenses for infrastructure restoration due to wildfires and significant charges for wildfire-related claims are expected to negatively impact second-quarter earnings [4][8]. Group 3: Earnings Prediction Model - The current model does not predict an earnings beat for EIX, with an Earnings ESP of -8.93% and a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [6][7].

Core Viewpoint - Albemarle Corporation (ALB) is expected to report a decline in revenue for the second quarter of 2025, primarily due to weak lithium market prices and a projected overall revenue drop of 13.1% year-over-year [5][8]. Revenue Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ALB's revenues for the upcoming quarter is $1,243.2 million, indicating a 13.1% decrease from the same quarter last year [5]. - The Energy Storage unit's revenue is expected to decline by 28.4% to $589 million [5][8]. - The Specialties unit is projected to see an 11.3% increase in net sales, estimated at $345 million [6][8]. - The Ketjen unit's net sales are expected to remain flat year-over-year at $260 million [6]. Performance Insights - ALB has missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings in three of the last four quarters, with an average negative earnings surprise of 136% [2]. - The company achieved a positive earnings surprise of 71% in the most recent quarter [2]. - ALB's shares have decreased by 19.2% over the past year, slightly better than the Zacks Chemicals Diversified industry's decline of 19.4% [3]. Cost and Productivity Actions - The company has implemented cost-saving and productivity initiatives that are expected to support margins despite challenges from declining lithium prices [9][10]. - ALB has made significant progress in its cost and operating structure review, achieving approximately 90% of its $350 million cost and productivity improvement target [10]. Market Conditions - The performance of ALB is likely to be impacted by soft lithium market prices, which have been affected by slowing demand for electric vehicles, inventory surplus, and increased supply [11]. - The uncertain macroeconomic environment and high interest rates have also contributed to weaker demand for lithium [11].

Core Insights - Kinross Gold Corporation (KGC) is expected to report strong second-quarter 2025 results, benefiting from higher gold prices and robust production, despite facing challenges from increased costs [1][6]. Financial Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for KGC's second-quarter earnings is 32 cents per share, reflecting a 128.6% year-over-year increase. Revenue estimates stand at $1.35 billion, indicating a 10.3% rise year-over-year [2]. - KGC has outperformed the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings in three of the last four quarters, with an average earnings surprise of 16.1% [3][4]. Production and Costs - Higher gold prices, which reached a record high of $3,500 per ounce in April 2025, are expected to positively impact KGC's performance. The average realized gold price for KGC in Q2 is estimated at $2,771 per ounce, an 18.3% increase from the previous year [6][7]. - Production costs have risen, with a 6% year-over-year increase in production costs of sales per ounce to $1,043 in Q1. The all-in-sustaining costs (AISC) are projected to rise 8.1% year-over-year to $1,499 per ounce in Q2 [9]. Market Position and Valuation - KGC's stock has increased by 79.7% over the past year, outperforming the Zacks Mining – Gold industry's 42.7% rise and the S&P 500's 17.9% increase [10]. - KGC is currently trading at a forward 12-month earnings multiple of 11.44, which is about 10% lower than the peer group average of 12.72 [13]. Growth Prospects - KGC has a strong production profile and a promising pipeline of exploration and development projects, including Great Bear in Ontario and Round Mountain Phase X in Nevada, which are expected to enhance production and cash flow [14][15]. - The company maintains a strong liquidity position and generates substantial cash flows, allowing it to finance development projects and enhance shareholder value [15]. Investment Outlook - With a solid pipeline of projects, strong financial health, and favorable market conditions, KGC stock is viewed as an attractive investment opportunity ahead of its earnings announcement [16].

Core Insights - Evercore Inc. (EVR) is expected to report second-quarter 2025 results on July 30, 2025, with a consensus estimate for sales at $713 million, reflecting a 2.5% year-over-year increase [1] - The earnings consensus estimate remains unchanged at $1.78 per share, indicating a 1.7% decline from the prior-year quarter [2] - Evercore has a strong earnings surprise history, having outperformed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the last four quarters with an average beat of 37.35% [2] Investment Banking & Equities - Global mergers and acquisitions activity in Q2 2025 was stronger than anticipated, although advisory fees are expected to decline by 1.9% year-over-year to $557.3 million [3][4] - The IPO market saw a significant rebound, leading to an expected 10% increase in underwriting fees to $34.1 million compared to the prior-year quarter [5][6] - High trading volumes due to market volatility are likely to have improved commission and related fees, with a consensus estimate of $56.92 million, suggesting a 6.9% increase year-over-year [6] Asset Management - Favorable market conditions and sustained client inflows are expected to result in a 20.9% year-over-year increase in asset management and administration fees, with a consensus estimate of $22.25 billion [7] Expenses - Company expenses are anticipated to rise in Q2 2025 due to increased employee compensation and benefits costs [7] Earnings Outlook - The model indicates a high probability of Evercore beating estimates, supported by a positive Earnings ESP of +4.79% and a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy) [8][9] - Key factors contributing to potential earnings growth include increased AUM, a rebound in IPOs, and strong trading volumes, although higher compensation expenses may pressure profitability [8]

Core Viewpoint - Baxter International Inc. is set to announce its second-quarter 2025 results on July 31, with expectations of moderate growth despite a projected decline in revenues and earnings compared to the previous year [1][2][3]. Q2 Estimates - The consensus estimate for revenues is $2.82 billion, reflecting a 26.1% decline from the prior year's quarter [2]. - The consensus estimate for earnings is 60 cents per share, indicating an 11.8% year-over-year decline [2]. - The model estimates total revenues from continuing operations to improve by 1.3% at constant currency to $2.81 billion, with adjusted earnings per share expected to decline 11.4% to 60 cents [2]. Important Factors to Note - Baxter is anticipated to report moderate growth supported by strong execution across core segments and easing operational challenges [3]. - Sales from continuing operations grew 5% in the first quarter, driven by the Medical Products & Therapies and Healthcare Systems & Technologies segments [3]. - For Q2, the company expects reported sales growth of approximately 4% to 5% and operational growth in the 1% to 2% range [3]. Margin Profile - Baxter's adjusted operating margin improved by 260 basis points year-over-year to 14.9%, aided by strong top-line delivery and lower SG&A expenses [4]. - The margin stability is expected to continue due to operational efficiencies and ongoing cost containment initiatives [4]. Operational Performance - The completion of Baxter's transformation strategy, including the spin-offs of the Kidney Care and BioPharma Solutions businesses, has streamlined its portfolio [5]. - Management expects adjusted earnings per share in the range of 59 to 63 cents, building on the 55 cents reported in the previous quarter [5]. Recovery from Hurricane Helene - Manufacturing at the North Cove facility has returned to pre-hurricane levels, allowing for inventory replenishment and reduced product allocations [6]. - The company anticipates normalized ordering patterns as IV solution product allocations are removed [6]. Segmental Overview - The Medical Products & Therapies segment reported a 6% operational growth in Q1, with sales reaching $1.3 billion, driven by the U.S. infusion systems portfolio [7][9]. - The Healthcare Systems & Technologies segment also saw a 6% operational increase in Q1, with sales totaling $704 million, led by the Care and Connectivity Solutions division [10]. - The Pharmaceuticals segment reported 3% operational growth in Q1, with sales of $581 million, primarily driven by specialty injectables [11]. Other Sales and Revenue Streams - Other sales totaled $15 million in Q1, with drug compounding business growing 2% [12]. - MSA revenue from Vantive was reported at $63 million in Q1, with expectations of around $80 million for Q2 [12].

Core Insights - Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL) is set to report its second-quarter 2025 results on July 30, with expectations of a decline in earnings and revenue compared to the previous year [1][5]. Earnings Performance - ODFL's earnings have exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate in three of the last four quarters, with an average surprise of 2.67% [1][2]. - The earnings per share (EPS) for Q2 2025 is projected at $1.29, reflecting a 12.84% decrease year over year, and has been revised down by 1.53% in the last 60 days [3][5]. Revenue Expectations - The revenue estimate for Q2 2025 is $1.42 billion, indicating a 5.55% decline from the previous year, attributed to weak freight demand and inflationary pressures [4][5]. - Revenue from Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) services is expected to be $1.41 billion, down 5.3%, while other services are projected to generate $16.5 million, a 20% increase year over year [7]. Market Conditions - The freight market downturn is anticipated to have significantly impacted ODFL's performance, with reduced shipments and rates due to declining demand for freight services [6][8]. - Geopolitical uncertainties and tariff-related issues are also contributing factors to the expected revenue decline [4][5]. Earnings Prediction Model - The current model does not predict an earnings beat for ODFL, as it has an Earnings ESP of -0.68% and a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) [8].

Core Viewpoint - Medical Properties Trust, Inc. (MPW) is expected to report a decline in revenues and normalized funds from operations (FFO) per share for Q2 2025, with significant challenges anticipated due to high interest expenses and exposure to troubled operators [1][8]. Financial Performance - In the last reported quarter, MPW posted a normalized FFO per share of 14 cents, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 15 cents [2]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for quarterly revenues is pegged at $228.6 million, implying a 14.3% decline from the prior-year quarter's reported figure [5][8]. - The consensus mark for income from financing leases stands at $9.6 million, suggesting a fall from $27.6 million reported in the year-ago quarter [5]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for normalized FFO per share has been revised downward to 13 cents, indicating a year-over-year fall of 43.5% [6][8]. Market Position and Strategy - Medical Properties owns a premium acute care portfolio, which is likely to benefit from favorable operating trends in the healthcare industry due to an aging population [2]. - The company has adopted a disciplined capital allocation strategy aimed at strengthening its balance sheet [3]. Projections and Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for straight-line rent revenues is pegged at $39.1 million, an increase from $38.4 million reported in the year-ago period [4]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter rent-billed revenues is pegged at $170.2 million, suggesting a fall from $183.8 million reported in the year-ago period [4][8]. Earnings Prediction - MPW is expected to report a 14.3% year-over-year revenue decline for Q2 2025, with quarterly FFO per share projected to fall 43.5% to $0.13 from the prior-year period [8]. - The company currently has an Earnings ESP of 0.00% and carries a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell), indicating a lack of confidence in a positive earnings surprise [9].

Core Viewpoint - Enbridge (ENB) is a strong candidate for investors looking for a stock that has consistently beaten earnings estimates and is well-positioned for future earnings reports [1]. Group 1: Earnings Performance - Enbridge has a history of beating earnings estimates, with an average surprise of 3.90% over the last two quarters [2]. - In the most recent quarter, Enbridge reported earnings of $0.68 per share against an expectation of $0.72, resulting in a surprise of 5.88% [3]. - For the previous quarter, the consensus estimate was $0.52 per share, while the actual earnings were $0.53 per share, leading to a surprise of 1.92% [3]. Group 2: Earnings Estimates and Predictions - There has been a favorable change in earnings estimates for Enbridge, with a positive Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) indicating a strong likelihood of an earnings beat [6]. - Stocks with a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) or better have a nearly 70% chance of producing a positive surprise [7]. - Enbridge currently has an Earnings ESP of +0.35%, suggesting analysts are optimistic about the company's earnings prospects [9]. Group 3: Zacks Rank and Future Outlook - The positive Earnings ESP combined with a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy) indicates that another earnings beat is likely [9]. - The next earnings report for Enbridge is expected to be released on August 1, 2025 [9].