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Leading up to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, some expectations consumers would open their wallets to buy electronics were high.  The November Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)-CNET Index of Consumer Technology  Expectations (ICTE), which measures consumer expectations about planned technology spending, was at 93.5 on November 24th. That was the index’ highest level since tracking began in January 2007, and a gain of more than 14 points over October.

Putting the forecast to the test, actual results are starting to come in:

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When corporate earnings reports come in clusters there is often a macro tone about industry that echoes in the details like a PR reps list of talking points.  In Viacom’s third quarter earnings there were references to “financial discipline” and “renewed optimism.”  There were hints of a cautious recovery in advertising revenue. It was the same tone taken by other media companies.  On point and consistent, the message was clear: careful cost management is carrying the load while the broader market is stabilizing.

Overall, Viacom reported consolidated revenues of $3.3 billion in the third quarter, down 3% year over year. Operating income climbed 14% to $784m.  Net Adjusted EPS was 69 cents a share.  Analysts had expected 57 cents on comparable revenue (Thomson Reuters).

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