Enbridge Energy Partners Misses Where it Counts

Enbridge Energy Partners (NYSE: EEP  ) reported earnings on Feb. 14. Here are the numbers you need to know.

The 10-second takeaway
For the quarter ended Dec. 31 (Q4), Enbridge Energy Partners beat expectations on revenues and missed estimates on earnings per share.

Compared to the prior-year quarter, revenue contracted and GAAP earnings per share contracted significantly.

Gross margins expanded, operating margins grew, net margins shrank.

Revenue details
Enbridge Energy Partners reported revenue of $1.77 billion. The five analysts polled by S&P Capital IQ hoped for sales of $1.65 billion on the same basis. GAAP reported sales were 15% lower than the prior-year quarter's $2.08 billion.

Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Dollar amounts in millions. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.

EPS details
EPS came in at $0.18. The 13 earnings estimates compiled by S&P Capital IQ averaged $0.25 per share. GAAP EPS of $0.21 for Q4 were 70% lower than the prior-year quarter's $0.71 per share.

Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.

Margin details
For the quarter, gross margin was 27.9%, 690 basis points better than the prior-year quarter. Operating margin was 18.7%, 1,280 basis points better than the prior-year quarter. Net margin was 3.1%, 790 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter.

Looking ahead
Next quarter's average estimate for revenue is $2.00 billion. On the bottom line, the average EPS estimate is $0.28.

Next year's average estimate for revenue is $7.86 billion. The average EPS estimate is $1.25.

Investor sentiment

Of Wall Street recommendations tracked by S&P Capital IQ, the average opinion on Enbridge Energy Partners is hold, with an average price target of $32.39.

Can your portfolio provide you with enough income to last through retirement? You'll need more than Enbridge Energy Partners. Learn how to maximize your investment income and "Secure Your Future With 9 Rock-Solid Dividend Stocks." Click here for instant access to this free report.

• Add Enbridge Energy Partners to My Watchlist.