Abbvie and NASDAQ OMX released their earnings reports this morning before opening bell.
Abbvie reported adjusted earnings of 94 cents per share, a 32.4% increase which exceeded management’s guidance, on $5.04 billion in revenue, a 17.8% increase operationally, for its first quarter. Analysts had been expecting earnings of 85 cents per share on $4.98 billion in revenue.
NASDAQ OMX reported earnings of 80 cents per share, coming out 1 cent per share ahead of the consensus estimate. The stock exchange operator reported revenue of $507 million, missing the consensus of $533.83 million for the quarter.
Key metrics from Abbvie’s earnings report
Abbvie’s GAAP earnings were 63 cents per share. Adjusted gross margin expanded to 82.9% of sales, while adjusted operating margin increased to 40.1%.
The drug maker said continued strength of arthritis drug Humira drove its sales growth in the first quarter, rising 18% or 26% operationally. Abbvie also introduced hepatitis C drug Viekira during the quarter, which also drove growth in sales.
Abbvie also increased its guidance for full year adjusted earnings per share. Management now expects earnings of between $4.10 and $4.30 per share. The previous guidance was between $4.05 and $4.25 per share. They project GAAP earnings of between $3.57 and $3.77 per share.
Key metrics from NASDAQ OMX’s earnings report
NASDAQ OMX posted GAAP earnings of 5 cents per share for the first quarter.
The company’s Market Services made up 37% of total revenues, amounting to $188 million, a $20 million decline year over year. NASDAQ’s Information Services business was 25% of total net revenues, rising by $2 million to $125 million during the first quarter. The company’s Technology Solutions business was 26% of its total net revenues, amounting to $130 million after a $10 million year over year decline. NASDAQ’s Listing Services business made up 12% of its revenues, amounting to $64 million thanks to a $6 million increase from last year.
NASDAQ OMX said it led U.S. exchanges for initial public offerings during the first quarter and saw strong assets tracking growth in the NASDAQ indices.
The company’s board of directors also authorized a 67% dividend increase, bringing it from 15 cents to 25 cents per share.
