The best way to answer fundamental questions is to read their annual report. You can download those for free, and will normally answer your question. Sometimes earning's releases contain other information that institutional traders are listening for and reacting to, not just earnings misses or beats. You would also have to follow the company on a regular basis. Maybe, for example, something was feared and priced in, and during the earning's announcement those fears were put to rest. CAT missed but their future out look improved. Bad earnings and a bad future has already been priced in. But like I say, if you want to know, you should get the annual/ quarterly reports to understand the company and sector better.