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TAMPA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. (Nasdaq: BLMN) will release results for the fiscal first quarter ended March 29, 2026, on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at approximately 6:30 AM EDT, which will be followed by a conference call to review its financial results at 8:00 AM EDT the same day.

The call will be webcast live from the Company’s website at http://www.bloominbrands.com under the Investors section. A replay of this webcast will be available on the Company’s website after the call.

About Bloomin’ Brands, Inc.

Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. is one of the largest casual dining restaurant companies in the world with a portfolio of leading, differentiated restaurant concepts. The Company’s restaurant portfolio includes Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. The Company owns, operates and franchises more than 1,450 restaurants in 46 states, Guam and 12 countries. For more information, please visit www.bloominbrands.com.

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The market expects Bloomin' Brands (BLMN - Free Report) to deliver a year-over-year decline in earnings on lower revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended March 2026. This widely-known consensus outlook is important in assessing the company's earnings picture, but a powerful factor that might influence its near-term stock price is how the actual results compare to these estimates.

The earnings report, which is expected to be released on May 6, might help the stock move higher if these key numbers are better than expectations. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.

While the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call, it's worth handicapping the probability of a positive EPS surprise.

Zacks Consensus EstimateThis owner of Outback Steakhouse and other casual dining spots is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.57 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -3.4%.

Revenues are expected to be $1.04 billion, down 0.8% from the year-ago quarter.

Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 7.14% higher over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.

Investors should keep in mind that an aggregate change may not always reflect the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts.

Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise

Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. This insight is at the core of our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction).

The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.

Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.

A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.

Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).

How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for Bloomin' Brands?For Bloomin' Brands, the Most Accurate Estimate is lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bearish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of -2.90%.

On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3.

So, this combination makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Bloomin' Brands will beat the consensus EPS estimate.

Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?Analysts often consider to what extent a company has been able to match consensus estimates in the past while calculating their estimates for its future earnings. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.

For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Bloomin' Brands would post earnings of $0.25 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.26, delivering a surprise of +4.00%.

Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates four times.

Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.

That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.

Bloomin' Brands doesn't appear a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.

Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.

TAMPA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bloomin' Brands, Inc. (Nasdaq: BLMN) today reported results for the first quarter 2026 (“Q1 2026”) compared to the first quarter 2025 (“Q1 2025”). CEO Comments “We are pleased with our results in the first quarter as they reflect our focus on consistency of execution and delivering a great guest experience,” said Mike Spanos, CEO. “Outback brand scores continue to improve, highlighting our craveable steaks and food quality. We are making progress on our turnaround.

For the quarter ended March 2026, Bloomin' Brands (BLMN - Free Report) reported revenue of $1.06 billion, up 1% over the same period last year. EPS came in at $0.67, compared to $0.59 in the year-ago quarter.

The reported revenue compares to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.04 billion, representing a surprise of +1.77%. The company delivered an EPS surprise of +17.59%, with the consensus EPS estimate being $0.57.

While investors closely watch year-over-year changes in headline numbers -- revenue and earnings -- and how they compare to Wall Street expectations to determine their next course of action, some key metrics always provide a better insight into a company's underlying performance.

As these metrics influence top- and bottom-line performance, comparing them to the year-ago numbers and what analysts estimated helps investors project a stock's price performance more accurately.

Here is how Bloomin' Brands performed in the just reported quarter in terms of the metrics most widely monitored and projected by Wall Street analysts:

Number of restaurants - System-wide total: 1,452 versus the four-analyst average estimate of 1,461.Comparable restaurant sales - U.S. - Fleming?s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar: 0.8% compared to the 0.4% average estimate based on four analysts.Comparable restaurant sales - U.S. - Carrabba?s Italian Grill: 1.3% versus 0.8% estimated by four analysts on average.Comparable restaurant sales - U.S. - Outback Steakhouse: -0.3% compared to the 0.3% average estimate based on four analysts.Comparable restaurant sales - U.S. - Combined U.S.: 0.9% versus 0.4% estimated by four analysts on average.Geographic Revenue- Total U.S.: $1.04 billion compared to the $1.02 billion average estimate based on two analysts.Geographic Revenue- Total U.S.- Franchise and other revenues: $10.26 million versus $9.55 million estimated by two analysts on average.Geographic Revenue- Total U.S.- Restaurant sales: $1.03 billion versus the two-analyst average estimate of $1.01 billion.Geographic Revenue- International Franchise- Franchise revenues: $7.57 million versus the two-analyst average estimate of $8.91 million.Revenues- Restaurant sales: $1.04 billion versus $1.02 billion estimated by four analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a +1.2% change.Revenues- Franchise and other revenues: $17.85 million versus $18.89 million estimated by four analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a -11.1% change.Revenues- All other revenues: $9.65 million compared to the $9.79 million average estimate based on two analysts.View all Key Company Metrics for Bloomin' Brands here>>>

Shares of Bloomin' Brands have returned +1.8% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +10.3% change. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), indicating that it could perform in line with the broader market in the near term.

The company pointed to improving performance at Outback Steakhouse as pricing actions, operational initiatives and higher guest spending helped support margins and sales growth.

• BMLN shares are consolidating. Where is BMLN stock headed?

Quarterly DetailsThe company reported first-quarter adjusted earnings per share of 67 cents, beating the analyst consensus estimate of 57 cents.

Quarterly sales of $1.059 billion (+1% year over year) outpaced the Street view of $1.04 billion, primarily due to higher comparable restaurant sales.

“Outback brand scores continue to improve, highlighting our craveable steaks and food quality,” said CEO Mike Spanos. “We are making progress on our turnaround and remain committed to driving long-term, sustainable, and profitable growth for Bloomin’ Brands.”

Adjusted operating income margin in the quarter under review contracted to 5.9% from 6.1%.

Restaurant-level operating margin expanded to 14% from 13.9% a year ago. The increase was primarily driven by higher average check per person due to pricing, cost-saving and productivity initiatives, and lower advertising expense, partially offset by inflation-driven increases in commodity, operating, and labor costs.

OutlookBloomin Brands is looking for second-quarter adjusted earnings per share of 27 cents to 32 cents, versus 22 cents analyst estimate.

The firm affirmed 2026 adjusted earnings per share guidance of 75 cents to 90 cents.

The firm expects U.S. comparable restaurant sales to grow between 1% and 2% in the second quarter of 2026.

BLMN Price Action: Bloomin’ Brands shares are trading higher by 48.35% to $8.55 at last check on Wednesday.

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SummaryBloomin' Brands delivered a better-than-expected Q1, with a 40% stock rally driven by positive comps and EPS growth.Q1 revenues rose 1.0% to $1.06B, with positive comps in all brands except Outback; Bonefish Grill led at 6.1%.Margins remained largely stable year-over-year, with adjusted EPS at $0.67, a $0.10 beat, aided by restructuring adjustments.We remain neutral, as a single strong quarter is insufficient; Q2 guidance implies continued EPS decline versus last year.Looking for a helping hand in the market? Members of BAD BEAT Investing get exclusive ideas and guidance to navigate any climate. Learn More »Sitewide Sale 2026: Get 20% Off RiverNorthPhotography/iStock Unreleased via Getty Images

We remain neutral on Bloomin' Brands, Inc. (BLMN). When the company reported its 2025 earnings a few months ago, we covered the performance and noted that in our opinion, it was just not good

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Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

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Bankwell Financial Group Grows, Improves ProfitsBankwell Financial Group NASDAQ: BWFG is a small commercial bank holding company headquartered in New Canaan, Connecticut, serving as the parent company of Bankwell Bank. The company is growing, improving its deposit base, widening its margin, and reducing dependence on third-party services.

Bankwell Financial Group Today

BWFG

Bankwell Financial Group

$55.46 +0.31 (+0.55%)

As of 10:26 AM Eastern

This is a fair market value price provided by Massive. Learn more.

52-Week Range$33.85▼

$56.40Dividend Yield1.44%

P/E Ratio11.15

Price Target$52.00

The stock price is rising, and insiders are buying into the rally. Insider activity is noteworthy because it was very tepid for years until Q3 2025, and then it exploded. Activity has remained solid since, with numerous insiders acquiring shares, and driving total ownership over 20%.

Bankwell Financial Group’s dividend is worthwhile. The stock yields about 1.5% with shares near $50, the payout ratio is low at about 15%, and annual distribution increases are becoming a possibility. A dividend increase would serve as a market catalyst, potentially triggering an influx of new capital.

Analyst and institutional trends are relatively strong for a bank this small. Institutions own about 36% of the stock and have been aggressively accumulating. The trailing 12-month pace as of mid-May was approximately $4-to-$1, with bullish behavior sustained for seven consecutive quarters. Analyst trends are less robust, with only four tracked, but they rate the stock as a consensus Moderate Buy. The only downside is that analysts view the stock as fairly valued as of mid-May, so another catalyst is needed. The upcoming fiscal Q2 2026 earnings report may provide it, but the consensus forecast isn’t promising, suggesting the third consecutive quarter with revenue near $31 million.

Bloomin’ Brands: Insiders Betting Big on Dividend ReinstatementBloomin’ Brands NASDAQ: BLMN is technically not a dividend stock, having suspended its payment in 2025 to focus on balance sheet health and a company turnaround.

Bloomin' Brands Today

$8.44 +0.38 (+4.75%)

As of 10:28 AM Eastern

This is a fair market value price provided by Massive. Learn more.

52-Week Range$5.19▼

$10.70P/E Ratio33.78

Price Target$8.78

The turnaround, however, already shows signs of traction, suggesting dividends will be reinstated at some future date, potentially within the next four to eight quarters. That’s a long time to wait, but other catalysts for the share price exist, including the traction seen in the fiscal Q1 release and its impact on sell-side sentiment. Insiders, meanwhile, including numerous directors, are buying shares with the market at long-term lows.

Sell-side sentiment, as reflected by the analysts and institutions that track the market and drive its action, is shifting. While still in the early phases, analysts, who had been reducing price targets and sentiment ratings, shifted to a more bullish posture following the report. Institutions likewise reverted to accumulation. Analysts' revisions include numerous price target increases, affirming potential for a double-digit rebound.

Nike Directors Buy Shares Conspicuously in Q2Nike NYSE: NKE is not out of the weeds, and its dividend is threatened by reduction; however, the company has over $8 billion in cash, can sustain the payment, and is tracking for a turnaround. Signs of managerial confidence are evident in the CEO's purchases and, again, in those of directors, including a million-dollar acquisition by Apple's NASDAQ: AAPL CEO Tim Cook. The only question is when the dividend payout ratio will improve—and that is expected to begin this year.

NIKE Today

$45.46 -0.50 (-1.08%)

As of 10:28 AM Eastern

This is a fair market value price provided by Massive. Learn more.

52-Week Range$41.35▼

$80.17Dividend Yield3.61%

P/E Ratio29.99

Price Target$60.89

Nike's dividend is a winner for investors. Trading near long-term valuations and share prices, the yield is 4%, and there is another reason to own it.

The company is on track to be included in the Dividend Aristocrat Index this year. Index inclusion is a catalyst, as it will trigger increased ownership by funds pegged to the index. In this scenario, the combined effects of business improvement, dividend increases, and index inclusion can drive a robust stock price recovery.

Analysts and institutions give mixed signals about Nike’s stock price direction. Analysts who rate Nike as a consensus Hold carry a 45% Buy-side bias but are significantly reducing their price targets, leading to the low-end range. While consensus forecasts 45% upside, current trends suggest a 45% downside is more likely. The good news is that institutions are likely buyers. They sold at the end of last year, but only minimally, and have reverted to buying in 2026. Nike’s stock price is likely near its bottom and may move lower to confirm it before the stock price recovers. A recovery could begin soon, potentially triggered by full year 2026 results.

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