FedEx predicts slower earnings growth this year

The world's second-largest package delivery company is closely watched for signs about the health of the economy. It forecast moderate growth for both the U.S. and global economies, citing the debt crisis in Europe and slowing growth in Asia.

The company's results for the fourth quarter did top Wall Street estimates when a charge for retiring planes is excluded. Its stock rose nearly 3 percent.

The Memphis, Tenn. company's forecast for the first quarter fell below Wall Street's expectations, while its range for the year fell mostly below analysts' views. FedEx faces a number of speed bumps, including higher salaries and pension costs, as well a shift by customers to cheaper shipping options to save money. The company predicts fiscal year 2013 earnings of $6.90 to $7.40 per share. That excludes the major cost reductions it plans to announce in the fall. Wall Street analysts expect earnings of $7.39 per share.

In a note to clients, Jefferies analyst Peter Nesvold said that while the earnings forecast highlights a weakening global economy, higher costs are the main reason for it falling under Wall Street's expectations. He notes that a reorganization in FedEx's U.S. express unit, including possible job cuts, could boost earnings in the long run.

FedEx is calling for 2.2 percent economic growth in the U.S. for a calendar 2012 — higher than the 2.1 percent it predicted three months ago. It sees that rising to 2.4 percent next year, about in line with the current consensus of economists.