Irvine-based Quest Software Inc. reported higher sales and profits for the first quarter on Wednesday but said sales and profits for the current quarter could be at the low end of Wall Street expectations.
First-quarter sales rose 25% to $103.3 million from a year ago. Operating profit came in at $15 million, well above the year-ago period’s $3.6 million.
“This quarter’s results indicate continued product leadership in our core markets,” said Vinny Smith, Quest’s chief executive.
Quest makes software that allows easier use of database software from Oracle Corp. and others.
Second-quarter sales could come in at $104 million to $108 million, Quest said. The average Wall Street estimate was $107 million, with some expecting as much as $110 million.
As for operating profit, Quest said it could see second-quarter operating profit of $8.6 million to $12.5 million. The latter figure is in line with the median estimate of 15 analysts who follow the company.
At least one expected $14.5 million in second-quarter profits.
Quest’s shares were off by about 4% in afterhours trading.
