A. O. Smith Q4 Profit Rises - Quick Facts

(RTTNews) - A. O. Smith Corp. (AOS) reported that its fourth-quarter net earnings increased to $42.4 million or $0.46 per share, from $39.3 million or $0.42 per share, last year. Adjusted earnings from continuing operations was $48.0 million or $0.52 per share, for the quarter.

On average, ten analysts polled by Thomson Reuters expected the company to report profit per share of $0.51 for the quarter. Analysts' estimates typicallly exclude special items. Net sales were $558.9 million, compared to $524.3 million, a year ago. Analysts expected revenue of $564.85 million for the quarter. The company expects to achieve full-year 2014 GAAP earnings of between $2.01 and $2.16 per share and adjusted earnings of between $2.15 and $2.30 per share. Analysts expect the company to report full year 2014 earnings per share of $2.28.

The company said its aspiration for organic sales for the total company is over $2.5 billion by 2015, and adjusted earnings aspiration for existing portfolio of businesses is now $2.50 per share by 2015 versus the previously disclosed $2.25 per share.