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The report sent the company's shares down nearly
6 percent in premarket trading.
The world's largest maker of construction and mining equipment
said it expects only a modest improvement in the global economy
in 2015 and gave an earnings outlook for the year below Wall
Street estimates. Chief Executive Officer Doug Oberhelman said
without a doubt Caterpillar faces a "tough year in 2015."
"While 2015 will be difficult, the work we've done to improve
our cost structure, market position and quality will position us
for better results when the world economy and the key industries
we serve improve," Oberhelman added.
The Peoria, Illinois-based company reported fourth-quarter net
profit of $757 million, down nearly 25 percent from $1.03
billion a year earlier.
Caterpillar reported earnings per share of $1.23, compared with
$1.54 a year earlier. Analysts expected $1.55 for the most
recent quarter.
Revenue totaled $14.24 billion, down from $14.4 billion a year
earlier, but above expectations of $14.18 billion.
Caterpillar said it expects full-year 2015 earnings per share of
$4.60, or $4.75 excluding restructuring costs. Analysts
estimated $6.67 for the year.
In premarket trading Caterpillar shares were down nearly 8
percent at $79.25.
(Reporting by Nick Carey; Editing by Jeffrey Benkoe)
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