L & L Energy (NASDAQ:LLEN)

L & L Energy reported preliminary results for its fiscal 2011 first quarter:

• Revenues for the first quarter increased approximately 336% to $55.3 million, compared with revenues of $12.7 million in the same period a year ago.
  
• Gross profit for the first quarter increased to $18.6 million, up approximately 207% compared with $6.1 millionin the same period a year ago.
  
• Net income increased approximately 306% year-over-year to $10.9 million, compared with $2.7 million in the same period a year ago.
  
• Earnings per share for the quarter totaled $0.36 per diluted share, an increase of approximately 177% compared with $0.13 in the same period a year ago.

"We are delighted to be able to announce such exceedingly positive preliminary results for our first quarter," commented Dickson Lee, Chairman and CEO of L&L. "We continue to experience the accretive effects of the four acquisitions we made last year, as well as the benefits of operational improvements at those facilities. China's government recently reiterated its commitment to consolidate the coal industry and support mergers and acquisitions of smaller mines, which form the crux of our strategic expansion. We look forward to sharing our full quarterly results with our shareholders shortly.  We expect strong continued growth for the rest of the year as we continue to execute our core businesses, integrate our recent acquisitions, and seek out new growth avenues."

GeoTeam note:

According to analysts estimates, LLEN has one more quarter left of above average EPS growth, before EPS growth is forecast to slow for a few quarters.

Source: Reuters

We have referenced this issue in the past. Please be aware that 2011 company EPS guidance of $1.61 is greater than analyst estimates.  Also keep in mind that LLEN goal is to pursue accretive acquisitions.

Fiscal Year 2010 Financial and Operating Highlights

(Pending Finalization of Audit)

Management believes that:

• Revenues generated in fiscal year 2010 increased to approximately $109 million, up from $41 million in 2009, representing a 166% increase.
• Operating income for fiscal year 2010 doubled to approximately $39 million, compared to $19 million in 2009
• Net income for fiscal year 2010 tripled to approximately $30 million, compared with $10 million in 2009
• Fully diluted earnings per share for fiscal year 2010 were approximately $1.17, up from 2009 EPS of $0.46.

Dickson Lee, Chairman and CEO of L & L, commented: "We are thrilled to report such dramatic growth in our fiscal year April 30, 2010 results.  We believe our financial performance in 2010 showcases the effectiveness of our aggressive growth strategy.  We have seen strong organic growth this year, coupled with an unprecedented number of successful acquisitions, which resulted in sales growth of 2 1/2 times.  The integration of these new additions into our existing operations will continue to benefit the Company. We will continue to look for other strategic actions to create the best possible value for our shareholders. We expect continued high demand for our products in the long-term, as approximately 80% of China's electricity generation is fueled by coal. We look forward to fiscal year 2011 with enthusiasm, and will share any new developments as they materialize."

Financial Outlook for Fiscal Year 2011

Management reaffirms previously stated guidance of $218 million in revenue and $46 million in net income for fiscal year 2011 ended April 30, 2011. These organic growth projections translate to EPS of $1.61 based on 29 million shares outstanding today. This does not include Company's potential acquisitions. Revenue and net income guidance projections for fiscal year 2011 represent year-over-year growth of 100% and 56%, respectively, from 2010.

The Company expects

• Revenue of $218 million for the 2011 fiscal year ending April 30, 2011 which represents growth of approximately 102% over previously released 2010 guidance of $108.1 million.
• Expects net income after tax and minority interest to grow from an estimated $28.1 million in 2010 to $46.7 million in 2011 for an increase of 66%. The Company is
• Earnings per share of $1.33 for 2011, an increase of 41% over previously released 2010 guidance EPS of $0.94 for the fiscal year 2010.

Management believes revenues and earnings would exceed the previously provided guidance released in March 2010. Management said that it expects fiscal 2010 annual revenue ended on April 30, 2010 to be higher than $108.1 million. The Company also believes net income would exceed the previously announced $28.1 million, or $0.94 EPS, on a GAAP basis, subject to final audit.

"We have two important elements working in our favor: first, demand for coal in the world's fastest growing economy, China, continues to exceed supply; and secondly, the PRC's mandate that smaller coal mines make infrastructure investments to improve efficiency and safety or face being shut down. With the mandate in process, we intend to acquire more profitable coal mines and help comply with the PRC mandate, that will bring in significant revenue and profits."

^a The above forecasts reflect the Company's current and preliminary views and are therefore subject to change. Please refer to the Company's Safe Harbor Statement (usually in press releases) for the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement.

^b Guidance is subject to funding requirements.