Many investors like to look for momentum in stocks, but this can be very tough to define. There is great debate regarding which metrics are the best to focus on in this regard, and which are not really quality indicators of future performance. Fortunately, with our new style score system we have identified the key statistics to pay close attention to and thus which stocks might be the best for momentum investors in the near term.
This method discovered several great candidates for momentum-oriented investors, but today let’s focus in on BHP Billiton (LON:BLT) plc (NYSE:BBL) as this stock is looking especially impressive right now. And while there are numerous ways in which this company could be a great choice, we have highlighted three of the most vital reasons for BBL’s status as a solid momentum stock below:
Short Term Price Change for BHP Billiton
A great place to look for finding momentum stocks is by inspecting short term price activity. This can help to reflect the current interest in a stock and if buyers or sellers have the upper hand right now. It is especially useful to compare it to the industry as this can help investors pinpoint the top companies in a particular area.
With a one week price change of 4.3% compared to an industry average of 1.6%, BBL is certainly well-positioned in this regard. The stock is also looking quite well from a longer time frame too, as the four week price change compares favorably with the industry at large as well.
Fiscal Year EPS Estimate Changefor BBL
In addition to price performance, it is also important to take a look at earnings estimate changes for the full year. This can show if AGI is poised to make a run based on fundamentals, or if the company is simply moving on speculation.
Over the past month, the full year earnings estimate for BBL has risen by 12.9%. On its own this is impressive, but consider that it also beats the industry average of 0.0% too. The trend is undeniably in BHP Billiton’s favor right now, and it suggests that the momentum might be long lasting for this stock.
BBL Earnings Estimate Revisions Moving in the Right Direction
While the great momentum factors outlined in the preceding paragraphs might be enough for some investors, we should also take into account broad earnings estimate revision trends. A nice path here can really help to show us a promising stock, and we have actually been seeing that with BBL as of late too.
Over the past two months,1earning estimate have gone higher compared to 1 lower for the full year, while we are also seeing that 2 estimates have moved upwards with no downward revisions for the next year time frame too. These revisions have helped to boost the consensus estimate as two months ago BBL was expected to post earnings of 36 cents/share for the full year, though today it looks to have EPS of 39 cents for the full year now, representing a solid increase which is something that should definitely be welcomed news to would-be investors.
Bottom Line
Given these factors, investors shouldn’t be surprised to note that we have BBL as a security with a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) and a Momentum Score of ‘B’.So if you are looking for a fresh pick that has potential to move in the right direction, definitely keep BBL on your short list as this looks be a stock that is very well-positioned to soar in the near term.
BILLITON ADR (BBL): Free Stock Analysis Report
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