BUZZ - Healthcare services group shares rise as Q4 revenue forecast exceeds market expectations

October 21 - ** After the outsourcing healthcare company Healthcare Services Group (HCSG.O) announced its third-quarter earnings, its stock price rose 2.9% in pre-market trading to $21.8

** If the upward momentum continues, the stock is expected to open at a one-month high

** According to data compiled by the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), the company expects fourth-quarter revenue to be between $535 million and $545 million, higher than analysts’ estimate of $506.5 million

** The report shows third-quarter earnings per share (EPS) was $0.36, above the analysts’ expectation of $0.23 per share

** Third-quarter revenue was $479.60 million, slightly below the expected $480.81 million

** Since early August, the stock has been below its 50-day moving average

** The 50-day moving average is an important indicator of a stock's short- to medium-term momentum

** Of seven brokerage firms, four rate the stock as “buy” or higher, and three rate it as “hold”; the median target price is $26

** As of the previous trading day’s close, the stock has risen 12.45% so far this year

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