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A ''whisper number'' is an unofficial, unpublished earnings estimate for a publicly traded company circulated among market professionals, analysts, and investors. Unlike the official consensus earnings estimates released by financial analysts, whisper numbers are based on informal speculation, rumors, or insights from individuals with access to non-public information. Whisper numbers are typically discussed and shared through informal channels such as online forums, social media, and private communications among market participants.

Purpose and Role:
The primary purpose of a whisper number is to provide an alternative perspective on a company's expected earnings, which might be more accurate than the official consensus estimates. Some investors believe that whisper numbers can offer valuable insights into a company's financial performance. They may incorporate non-public information or a more realistic assessment of the company's prospects. Market participants may use whisper numbers to adjust their trading strategies, anticipating how the market might react if the company's earnings differ from the official estimates.

Importance:
Whisper numbers can be important for investors and traders who seek additional information or alternative viewpoints on a company's expected earnings. In some cases, whisper numbers have been more accurate than the official consensus estimates, potentially giving investors an edge in predicting market reactions to earnings announcements. However, it is essential to recognize that whisper numbers are speculative and unofficial, and their accuracy and reliability can vary significantly.

Benefits and Pros:

*Alternative perspective: Whisper numbers can provide an alternative viewpoint on a company's expected earnings, complementing the official consensus estimates.
*Potential accuracy: In some cases, whisper numbers have proven more accurate than official estimates, as they may incorporate non-public information or a more realistic assessment of the company's prospects.
*Market sentiment indicator: Whisper numbers can offer insights into market expectations and sentiment, which can be valuable for adjusting trading strategies.

Cons:

*Unofficial and speculative: Whisper numbers are not based on official, publicly available information and are inherently speculative in nature.
*Reliability and accuracy: The accuracy and reliability of whisper numbers can vary widely, and investors should be cautious when relying on them for trading decisions.
*Potential legal issues: Using non-public information to make trading decisions can be illegal, so investors should be cautious when considering whisper numbers that may be based on insider information.

In summary, whisper numbers are unofficial, unpublished earnings estimates that provide an alternative perspective on a company's expected financial performance. While they can offer valuable insights in some cases, investors should be cautious when relying on whisper numbers. Their accuracy and reliability can vary, and their use may raise legal issues.

== See Also ==
*[[Earnings Statement]]

== References ==
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