Sherwin-Williams (NYSE: SHW) reported Q4 EPS of $3.54, $0.11 worse than the analyst estimate of $3.65. Revenue for the quarter came in at $4.06 billion versus the consensus estimate of $4.08 billion.

"We enter 2019 well-positioned and focused on what we can control. While the current macroeconomic outlook is less than clear, we see significant opportunities for profitable growth throughout the business. In The Americas Group, we will continue to invest in our store model and best-in-class products while executing on share of wallet and new account activation initiatives. In the Consumer Brands Group, we are excited by the exclusive national partnership and shared commitment to growth we have with our largest retail partner, as well as by our strong relationships with other leading retailers. Finally, in the Performance Coatings Group, we are focused on leveraging the combined capabilities of our integrated organization across the various end markets and geographies we serve.

"In the first quarter of 2019, we anticipate our net sales will increase two to six percent compared to the first quarter of 2018. The first quarter 2019 will include the expenses related to the defined benefit plan annuity purchase of approximately $.43 per share. For the full year 2019, we expect core net sales to increase four to seven percent compared to full year 2018. With annual sales at that level, we anticipate diluted net income per share for 2019 will be in the range of $16.77 to $17.77 per share compared to $11.67 per share earned in 2018. Full year 2019 earnings per share includes acquisition-related costs and other non-operating expenses of approximately $3.20 and $.43 per share, respectively. We expect our 2019 effective tax rate to be in the low twenty percent range."

GUIDANCE:

Sherwin-Williams sees FY2019 EPS of $16.77-$17.77, versus the consensus of $21.53.

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