3D printers advance after ExOne's sales top expectations

Makers of 3D printers are climbing after a company in the sector, ExOne (XONE), reported higher than expected fourth quarter revenue. WHAT'S NEW: ExOne's fourth quarter revenue was $12.7M, versus analysts’ consensus estimate of $12.3M. The company stated that it generated net income of $900,000 during the quarter, versus a loss of $2.8M during the same period in 2011. ExOne provided 2013 revenue guidance that was in-line with expectations. WHAT'S NOTABLE: ExOne's CEO sounded upbeat about the 3D printing sector's outlook. "The recent technological advances of our 3D printing machines create persuasive economics for our industrial customers, who have demonstrated a growing interest in applying 3D printing in their manufacturing processes," said ExOne CEO Kent Rockwell. "We believe we are a driver of the rate of adoption of 3D printing for industrial applications as well as a benefactor of the growing relevance of this technology in manufacturing," he added. PRICE ACTION: In early afternoon trading, 3D Systems (DDD) gained 3.6% to $31.75, Stratasys (SSYS) rose 1.2% to $74.40, and ExOne surged 8% to $33.10.