Nasdaq’s (NDAQ) Q4 EPS of $1.26 met analysts’ expectations, while revenue of $645 million exceeded the analysts’ views. Street had expected the exchange operator to post earnings of $1.26 per share on revenue of $640 million. Nasdaq stock was trading flat during the first hour of Wednesday’s trading session.
The year-over-year revenue growth of 12% was primarily driven by organic growth of 11% and the acquisition of eVestment. On a GAAP basis, Nasdaq reported a loss of 27 cents per share compared to a profit of $1.45 per share in the year-ago quarter.
“As we begin 2019, we are continuing to execute on our strategy, first with the pivot to maximize opportunities as a technology and analytics provider through our acquisitions of Cinnober and Quandl and second by enhancing our marketplace core through our offer to combine Oslo Bors VPS’ leading Norwegian exchange and depository capabilities with our leading Nordic marketplace complex,” said CEO Adena Friedman.
Nasdaq initiated non-GAAP operating expense guidance for 2019, which is expected to be in the range of $1,325 billion to $1,375 million.
Earlier today, Nasdaq AB, a subsidiary of Nasdaq said that it will make a public offer to acquire shares of Oslo Bors VPS Holding ASA, a Norway=based financial trading company, at NOK 152 per share.
Shares of Nasdaq had gained 4% in both year-to-date and past 12-month periods.