CF Industries' revenue edges past estimate on strong fertilizer demand

Nov 5 (Reuters) - CF Industries CF.N topped analysts' expectations for third-quarter revenue on Wednesday, helped by robust demand for fertilizers.

A robust planting season and healthy crops in several parts of North America, along with stabilization in prices for nutrients after a period of volatility, has boosted demand for fertilizers.

CF Industries produces nutrients such as nitrogen, ammonium nitrate, urea ammonium nitrate solution, granular urea and ammonia, all of which are key feedstocks for fertilizers.

Its quarterly net sales stood at $1.66 billion, just above analysts' average estimate of $1.65 billion, according to data compiled by LSEG.

The company also forecast strong global nitrogen demand through the end of 2025 and into 2026, citing low inventories and a constructive supply-demand balance.

It reported third-quarter net earnings of $353 million, or $2.19 per share, compared with $276 million, or $1.55 per share, a year earlier.

Peer Mosaic MOS.N also beat third-quarter profit expectations on strong potash demand and pricing.

Besides, CF Industries said it completed a $3 billion share buyback program during the quarter and commenced a $2 billion repurchase.