Why Oshkosh Shares Trucked Ahead

Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.

What: Shares of heavy-duty vehicle manufacturer Oshkosh climbed 12% today after its quarterly results and outlook topped Wall Street expectations.

So what: The stock has struggled over the past few years on weak demand for its defense products, but Oshkosh's first-quarter -- EPS of $0.51 versus $0.43 in the year-ago period -- coupled with upbeat full-year guidance reinforces recent optimism over a prolonged turnaround. Although the defense segment continues to weigh heavily on revenue, Oshkosh's margins are being boosted nicely by nondefense products like fire and emergency equipment.

Now what: Management now sees 2013 adjusted EPS of $2.80-$3.05, well above its prior view of $2.35-$2.60. "Each of our non-defense segments improved its operating income margins compared to the prior year quarter, favorably positioning our company to deliver on our long-range goals," said CEO Charlie Szews. With the stock now up almost 100% over just the past six months, however, much of that bullishness might already be baked into the price.

Interested in more info on Oshkosh?Add it to your watchlist.

The article Why Oshkosh Shares Trucked Ahead originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor Brian Pacampara and The Motley Fool have no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools don't all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Copyright © 1995 - 2013 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.