Smartphone maker HTC forecast a sequential slowdown in results in the first quarter. The company expects revenue of TWD 41.5-45 billion, versus TWD 47.9 billion in the fourth quarter. The figure is still up on the TWD 33.1 billion reported for the first quarter last year. The gross margin is targeted at 19.5-20 percent, versus 20.4 in Q4, and EPS is estimated at USD 0.08-0.47, versus USD 0.57 in Q4.
The company issued the forecast with its fourth-quarter report, which confirmed a small increase in revenues to TWD 47.87 billion from TWD 42.89 billion a year earlier, at the top of the company's forecast range. HTC said the growth underlines its ability to offer products across a range of price points to target specific markets.
The company's quarterly operating result improved to a profit of TWD 0.18 billion versus a loss of TWD 1.56 billion a year ago. The company also booked a net profit of TWD 0.47 billion, up from TWD 0.31 billion in Q4 2013.
HTC confirmed it plans to expand its product range beyond phones, developing wearable products for the fitnees and health market with partner Under Armour.
