Earnings estimates are used for companies with publicly traded stocks, as analysts try to predict future earnings using a variety of methods, including recent trends in growth, industry analysis and company-specific research. Earnings estimates are only as accurate as the data points used to make them. For public companies, analysts typically use publicly available information from the company, including the most recent earnings reports, management guidance, and other publicly issued news. Private companies may have less available information to estimate earnings.

The difference between a company’s actual earnings and the analyst's estimates are closely watched by investors, as they give clues about the company’s future performance. When a company releases its quarterly earnings report, investors typically compare the reported earnings to the consensus estimates. A company's stock may experience a sharp reaction if it either beats the consensus or fails to meet the expectations.

Typically, companies present their financial results for the preceding quarter or year in their earnings reports (also known as 8-Ks). These reports are meticulously studied by equity analysts, who use them to make adjustments to their earnings estimates. These estimates are regularly revised based on changing economic and market conditions and corporate events. Analysts also use the reported quarterly results to update their longer-term projections.

Earnings estimates provide investors with important insights into a company’s performance. They can be used to compare a company’s performance to its peers and industry standards. Analysts use them to identify potential investments and determine the value of a particular stock. When used in conjunction with fundamental analysis, they can inform investors’ decisions on whether to buy, sell, or hold a certain security.

Overall, earnings estimates are an essential tool for analyzing a company’s performance and potential. They provide investors with detailed forecasts of expected financial performance and can help them make informed decisions on whether a particular stock is likely to generate returns in the long run.