Markets pushed higher as a result of fourth quarter earnings being relatively positive vs. expectations. This bullish market has seen successful earnings reports from Citigroup (ticker:C) and American energy company Schlumberger (ticker: SLB).
Citigroup's fourth quarter 2017 results reported revenue of $17.26 billion, which topped projected earnings of $17.22. This positive result was on the back of a 5.5% increase in Global Consumer Banking. This has seen Citigroup's share price rebound from $74.5 to around $78.5. Analysts at Barclays and RBC Capital Markets suggest to hold onto the stock at $78, forecasting the stock to rise to $85.
Meanwhile, Schlumberger released top and bottom line beat within its fourth quarter results. It's revenue of $18.18 billion exceed expectation of $8.12 billion, outlining increased investor sentiment as a result of strong performances for oil sitting just under $60. Paal Kibsgaard, the CEO of Schlumberger, commented that "the oil market is now in balance and the previous oversupply discount is gradually being replaced by a market premium, which makes us increasingly positive on the global outlook for our business." FBR & Co. see an increase in value of Schlumberger within 2018, forecasting a share price of $105 to $107 YTD.
- Courtesy of StockAlertPLUS from TheStreet