3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) is scheduled to reveal its first quarter figures in a webcast and conference call at 09:00 local time tomorrow (April 30th), but several financial publications have already thrown their hats into the ring with their own previews for the industry behemoth.
Forbes stated at close of play on Friday, when 3D Systems was suffering something of a retreat on the New York Stock Exchange, that analysts are anticipating a 20 cents-a-share profit, which is up from 15 cents 12 months ago.
However, the leading business and economics magazine stated that the consensus estimate has slipped from 21 cents since January.
Analysts are projecting earnings of 99 cents per share for the fiscal year, while revenue is anticipated to be $101.6 million (£65.4 million, €77.6 million) for the three-month period - which is nearly one-third (30.4 per cent) higher than the year-earlier total of $77.9 million.
Seeking Alpha's predictions were similar, with the top online financial news resource stating that seven analysts have an average first-quarter earnings per share estimate of $0.21 on estimated revenues of $101.61 million.
For the year, Forbes added, 3D Systems' revenue is projected to roll in at $461.4 million. The company itself stated in its last guidance that its anticipated 2013 revenue would be between $440 million and $485 million.
The magazine concluded that the majority (57.1 per cent) of analysts rate 3D Systems as a buy. When compared to its nearest six competitors, this is much better than their 40.7 per cent average.
Indeed, Seeking Alpha pointed out that so far this year 3D Systems has succeeded in staying ahead of Stratasys and ExOne, while sales expansion is expected to be steady over the medium-term, but the question is at what rate will the business grow?
