Gj "I understand that approx 80% have just beat forecasts in the...

Gj "I understand that approx 80% have just beat forecasts in the US!"

I've read analysis in the past of how manipulated "beats" are in the US. Basically earnings forecasts are typically lowered by investment bank analysts over their previous forecasts in the run up to earnings season so a beat can be recorded. Stocks can have declining earnings year on year, but positive spin can easily be placed on this by analysts coming out with low forecasts then companies beat those soft forecasts and everyones happy. Easy manipulation of those who listen to the talking heads on TV.

You'd have to believe that analysts are independent and not part of brokerages or banks that promote stocks to consider beats as relevant.