NCI, Inc.

This Zacks #1 rank stock has been a steady player in a tough market. The company has been able to produce consistent results, having beat estimates in each of the last four quarters.

NCI's fourth-quarter results, reported in November were equal cause for celebration. Income was up 33% from last year to $4.4 million, producing earnings of 32 cents, 2 cents ahead of estimates.

Analyst Estimates

Analyst estimates have been holding in higher ground, with the current-year estimate holding steady at $1.23 per share. The next-year estimate is pegged at $1.44, a 17% earnings growth projection.

The Chart

Shares of NCIT have been rallying since bottoming out just above $18 in late October. More recently, this stock just jumped past a key level of short-term resistance. Take a look below.

California Water Service Group (CWT - Snapshot Report) set a new 52-week high following its latest earnings announcement. Shares continue to trade at peak levels on the heels of the company's second consecutive surprise. Read full Analysis.

Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc. (SWM - Snapshot Report) posted impressive third-quarter results in mid November in which the company moved back into profitability from last year. Analysts are bullish on the company, with the next-year estimate pegged at $1.55, a 72% earnings growth projection. Read full Analysis.

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Inc. (GMCR - Analyst Report) provided bullish 2009 earnings guidance after reporting excellent fourth-quarter and full-year results in early November. Read full Analysis.

Read the full analyst report on NCIT