NUCOR CORP (NYSE:NUE) reported its fourth-quarter 2025 financial results, delivering earnings that fell short of Wall Street's expectations. The steelmaker's performance reflects the ongoing pressures within the cyclical steel industry, prompting a negative reaction in after-hours trading.
Earnings Miss Drives Market Reaction
The company reported adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.73 for Q4 2025. This figure came in below the analyst consensus estimate of $1.93. The market's immediate response was telling, with the stock declining approximately 3.5% in after-hours trading following the announcement. This price action suggests investors were disappointed by the earnings miss, overshadowing the company's year-over-year growth.
Key quarterly comparisons include:
- Q4 2025 Adjusted EPS: $1.73 (vs. estimate of $1.93)
- Q4 2024 Adjusted EPS: $1.22
- Q3 2025 Adjusted EPS: $2.63
On the revenue front, Nucor reported sales of $7.69 billion for the quarter. This also missed analyst projections, which had anticipated revenue closer to $7.95 billion. The dual miss on both the top and bottom lines provides a clear catalyst for the stock's negative after-hours move.
Summarizing the Quarterly Report
Nucor's announced consolidated net earnings were $378 million, or $1.64 per diluted share. After adjusting for one-time impairment charges, the core operational earnings stood at $400 million, or $1.73 per share. The report highlighted a significant sequential decline from a strong third quarter, where the company earned $2.63 per share. However, it also demonstrated substantial improvement compared to the same period last year, with earnings up from $1.22 per share in Q4 2024. This paints a picture of a company navigating a down-cycle from recent peaks but maintaining a healthier footing than it did a year prior.
Looking Ahead: Analyst Estimates for 2026
With the fourth-quarter results now in hand, investor attention is shifting to Nucor's trajectory for the coming year. Current analyst estimates provide a benchmark for future performance.
- For Q1 2026, analysts are forecasting revenue of approximately $8.80 billion and earnings per share of around $2.87.
- For the full year 2026, the consensus estimates project sales of about $35.32 billion and EPS of $11.92.
These forward-looking figures will be a primary focus for management commentary on future earnings calls and in subsequent guidance. The company's ability to meet or exceed these estimates will be critical in determining whether the current post-earnings sell-off is a temporary setback or the beginning of a longer-term trend.
For a detailed breakdown of historical earnings, future estimates, and analyst revisions, you can review Nucor's earnings data here: NUE Earnings & Estimates.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, a recommendation, or an offer to buy or sell any securities. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Readers should conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
