Wells Fargo (WFC) Q4 Earnings Rises, Records Tax Benefit

Have you been eager to see how Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) performed in Q4 in comparison with the market expectations? Let’s quickly scan through the key facts from this San Francisco-based money center bank’s earnings release this morning:

Earnings Improve Y/Y

Wells Fargo came out with adjusted earnings per share of 97 cents, up from the prior-year quarter earnings of 96 cents. Results excluded estimated tax benefit from the reduction to net deferred income taxes and other adjustments. The Zacks Consensus Estimate was $1.04.

How Was the Estimate Revision Trend?

You should note that the earnings estimate for Wells Fargo depicted neutral stance prior to the earnings release. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has remained unchanged over the last seven days.

Wells Fargo has an impressive earnings surprise history. The company delivered positive surprises in three of the prior four quarters. Overall, the company surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by an average of 2.75% in the trailing four quarters.

Wells Fargo & Company Price and EPS Surprise

Wells Fargo & Company Price and EPS Surprise | Wells Fargo & Company Quote

Revenue Came In Lower Than Expected

Wells Fargo posted revenues of $22.1 billion, lagging the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $22.4 billion. Yet, results improved from $21.6 billion in the year-ago quarter.

Key Stats to Note:

• Pre-tax pre-provision profit (PTPP) : $5.3 billion
• ROA (net income to average assets): 1.26%
• ROE (net income applicable to common stock to shareholders’ equity): 12.7%
• Results included $3.35 billion after-tax benefit, or 67 cents per share, from the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act and other items

What Zacks Rank Says

The estimate revisions that we discussed earlier have driven a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for Wells Fargo. However, since the latest earnings performance is yet to be reflected in the estimate revisions, the rank is subject to change. It all depends on what sense the just-released report makes to the analysts.

(You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.)

How the Market Reacted So Far

Following the earnings release, Wells Fargo shares were down more than 1% in the pre-trading session. This is in line with what the stock witnessed in the prior-day’s session. Clearly, the initial reaction shows that the investors have not considered the results in their favor. However, the full-session’s price movement may indicate a different picture.

Check back later for our full write up on this Wells Fargo earnings report later!

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