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Surging Earnings Estimates Signal Upside for Equifax (EFX) Stock

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Equifax (EFX - Free Report) could be a solid choice for investors given the company's remarkably improving earnings outlook. While the stock has been a strong performer lately, this trend might continue since analysts are still raising their earnings estimates for the company.

Analysts' growing optimism on the earnings prospects of this credit reporting company is driving estimates higher, which should get reflected in its stock price. After all, empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements. This insight is at the core of our stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank.

The five-grade Zacks Rank system, which ranges from a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) to a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive externally-audited track record of outperformance, with Zacks #1 Ranked stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 2008.

Consensus earnings estimates for the next quarter and full year have moved considerably higher for Equifax, as there has been strong agreement among the covering analysts in raising estimates.

The chart below shows the evolution of forward 12-month Zacks Consensus EPS estimate:

12 Month EPS

Current-Quarter Estimate Revisions

The earnings estimate of $1.30 per share for the current quarter represents a change of -7.14% from the number reported a year ago.

Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Equifax has increased 47.34% because 10 estimates have moved higher compared to no negative revisions.

Current-Year Estimate Revisions

The company is expected to earn $5.16 per share for the full year, which represents a change of -8.19% from the prior-year number.

There has been an encouraging trend in estimate revisions for the current year as well. Over the past month, 10 estimates have moved up for Equifax versus no negative revisions. This has pushed the consensus estimate 13.06% higher.

Favorable Zacks Rank

Thanks to promising estimate revisions, Equifax currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). The Zacks Rank is a tried-and-tested rating tool that helps investors effectively harness the power of earnings estimate revisions and make the right investment decision. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Our research shows that stocks with Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and 2 (Buy) significantly outperform the S&P 500.

Bottom Line

Equifax shares have added 16.6% over the past four weeks, suggesting that investors are betting on its impressive estimate revisions. So, you may consider adding it to your portfolio right away to benefit from its earnings growth prospects.


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