Gulfport Energy Corporation is expected to report third-quarter results after the market closes Wednesday. The natural gas producer faces pressure from weak commodity prices as investors look for details on its strategy under new leadership and the outlook for future demand tied to data centers.

Analysts expect earnings of $5.06 per share on revenue of $358.36 million, up from second-quarter earnings of $3.91 per share and revenue of $323.23 million. However, earnings-per-share estimates have fallen 4% over the past two months, while revenue forecasts have remained relatively stable.

The stock recently traded at $166.56, close to its 52-week low of $149.18 and below its high of $225.78. Natural gas futures have weakened amid unseasonably warm weather and ample storage levels. Wall Street’s average price target is $214.77, implying nearly 29% upside from the recent share price, although some analysts have become more cautious.

Investors are expected to focus on Free cash flow. Analysts anticipate cash flow slightly above consensus, supported by about $36 million in hedge gains and lower capital spending. They will also look for management to outline an evolving framework for 2027, including whether Gulfport could move from its current 1.5-rig approach to a more continuous operating schedule with a possible two-rig program.

The company’s plans for its SCOOP and Utica assets will also be in focus. Gulfport operates in the SCOOP formations in central Oklahoma and the Utica and Marcellus formations in eastern Ohio.

Potential power demand from data centers and industrial development is another medium-term consideration. The source report points to rising power generation in the Appalachia region and Ohio’s power plant buildout as possible demand drivers for Gulfport. Investors will be watching whether management sets out how the company could benefit while navigating near-term pricing pressure.

Gulfport’s second-quarter results were mixed: earnings of $3.91 per share fell short of the $4.08 consensus estimate, while revenue of $323.23 million exceeded expectations of $305.65 million. Jefferies downgraded the stock to Hold in September, citing concerns about the timing of acreage acquisitions and returns on higher lease costs. Scotiabank, by contrast, initiated coverage with a $217 price target.

Sources: Investing.com News.