SI
SI
discoversearch

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor.  We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community.  If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.
Technology Stocks : WDC/Sandisk Corporation
WDC 174.03-0.1%1:03 PM EST

 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  
To: hueyone who wrote (11105)5/17/2000 6:55:00 PM
From: Ausdauer  Read Replies (1) of 60323
 
Are analyst estimates a weapon against individual investors?

"You have a note in the summary suggesting you do not believe analysts' current earnings estimates accurately reflect the guidance given during the last conference call. Could you please elaborate on your earnings expectations?"

I take earnings projections with a grain of salt.

I think that selective disclosure issues become real when analysts start poking around for earnings estimates. Cindy seemed pretty tight-lipped in the past and I expect she gave only very general guidelines for reasons I have explained previously. Many companies seem to give general guidelines that analysts plug into their earnings models, then query whether they are in the ballpark. I base this statement on conference calls I have listened in on. I have some suspicion that analysts may intentionally understate earnings in order to acquire shares, then revise once a position is established. Thus, analyst estimates can serve as another weapon against the individual investor.

Analyst estimates can be way off base. Earlier this year I purchased shares in Vishay Intertechnology (VSH). They have already revised (in a rather boistrous manner) the earnings projected by analysts. This has occured on at least three occasions already this year. SSTI did the same thing in the Fall of 1999. This type of maneuver takes great confidence and courage as it risks a class action suit if earnings are missed.

As far as analysts' projections for SanDisk I would say the following...

21½ +22½ +23½ +24½ = 90½

I don't personally believe this is in line with company guidance.

Ausdauer
Report TOU ViolationShare This Post
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext