American Eagle Outfitters Inc. (NYSE: AEO) reported third-quarter 2012 results before markets opened this morning. The specialty clothing retailer reported adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.39 and revenues of $910 million. In the same period a year ago, the company reported EPS of $0.27 on revenue of $819 million. Today’s results also compare to the Thomson Reuters consensus estimates for EPS of $0.39 and $873.26 million in revenue.

On a GAAP basis, American Eagle reported EPS of $0.41, not including a loss from discontinued operations. The company has shuttered its 77kids business.

The company’s CEO said:

Our third quarter reflected on-going business momentum, profitable sales growth, and a leading brand and product driven customer experience. We’re also pleased to see business strength carry into the fourth quarter and record results over Thanksgiving weekend.

American Eagle guided fourth-quarter EPS at $0.54 to $0.56, compared with a consensus estimate of $0.55. For the full fiscal year, ending in January, the company forecast EPS of $1.38 to $1.40, above the consensus estimate of $1.37.

Shares are trading up 7.8% this morning at $20.93 in a 52-week range of $12.50 to $23.94. Thomson Reuters had a consensus analyst price target of around $25.50 before today’s results were announced.

Paul Ausick

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