Core Viewpoint - Westport Innovations (WPRT) has been upgraded to a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy), indicating a positive trend in earnings estimates which is a significant factor influencing stock prices [1][3]. Earnings Estimates and Stock Price Impact - The Zacks rating system is based on changes in earnings estimates, which are closely correlated with stock price movements, particularly due to institutional investors adjusting their valuations based on these estimates [4][6]. - An increase in earnings estimates typically leads to higher fair value for a stock, prompting institutional investors to buy or sell, thus affecting stock prices [4]. Company Performance and Outlook - The upgrade for Westport suggests an improvement in the company's underlying business, which should encourage investors to drive the stock price higher [5]. - For the fiscal year ending December 2025, Westport is expected to earn -$2.82 per share, unchanged from the previous year, but the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased by 14.6% over the past three months, indicating positive sentiment among analysts [8]. Zacks Rating System - The Zacks Rank system classifies stocks into five groups based on earnings estimates, with a strong historical performance, particularly for Zacks Rank 1 stocks which have averaged a +25% annual return since 1988 [7]. - The upgrade to Zacks Rank 2 places Westport in the top 20% of Zacks-covered stocks, suggesting it has a strong potential for market-beating returns in the near term [10].