Minneapolis, MN-based Xcel Energy Inc. (XEL Quick QuoteXEL - Free Report) firm has made a mark of its own in the electric utility space through its widespread operations and a solid customer base. The company currently operates primarily through its regulated utilities which lend a long-term growth potential.

However, considering the nature of this industry, electric and natural gas utility businesses are impacted by changes in weather patterns which, in turn, weigh on their performance. In addition fluctuating commodity prices could also lead to more volatility in earnings.

Estimate Trend & Surprise History

Investors should note that the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the second quarter of 41 cents per share has decreased by 4.6% over the last 30 days.

Coming to the earnings surprise, Xcel Energy has surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in two of the trailing four quarters. This led to an average positive surprise of 1.17%.

Zacks Rank: The company currently has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) but going further things could definitely change given the company’s recently released second quarter earnings results.

Going below we have mentioned some of the vital information from this just-revealed announcement:

Earnings:  Xcel Energy missed earnings in the second quarter. Our consensus called for EPS of 41 cents while the company reported EPS of 39 cents.

Revenue: The Company lagged the revenue estimates in the reported quarter. Xcel Energy posted revenues of $2,499.9 million in the quarter, compared with Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2,530 million.

Stock Price:  It would be interesting to see how the market reacts to the negative earnings surprise during the trading session today.

Check back later for our full write up on this Xcel Energy earnings report!

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