CenterPoint Energy Profit Tops View; Guides 2012 In Line

Electric and natural gas utility CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (CNP) reported Wednesday a profit for the fourth quarter that declined from last year, despite a marginal revenue growth, hurt by higher expenses. Earnings per share for the quarter came in above analysts’ expectations, while quarterly revenues missed their estimates. The company also provided earnings guidance for the full-year 2012, in line with Street view.