How did ALV's Q1 2024 EPS surprise impact investor confidence?

Autoliv's (ALV) Q1 2024 EPS surprise of $0.17, compared to the year-ago period, had a positive impact on investor confidence, as evidenced by the following points:

1. **Consistent Performance**: Autoliv's consistent performance, including an 18% year-over-year growth in revenue for Q4 2023, contributed to investor confidence. The company's gross profit increased by 25.6% year-over-year, reaching $464.02 million.
2. **Strong Profitability**: The company's operating margin improved to 8.6%, with an adjusted operating margin reaching 12.1%. Additionally, the adjusted EPS at $3.74 experienced a significant 105% increase.
3. **Analyst Expectations**: Analysts had forecasted an EPS of $3.20 for Q4 2023, which represented a 74.9% increase year-over-year. Autoliv's actual EPS of $3.74 outpaced these expectations, further bolstering investor confidence.
4. **Market Reaction**: Following the release of Q4 2023 results, Autoliv's shares saw a nearly 4% increase, indicating positive market sentiment. This momentum carried into Q1 2024, as the EPS surprise of $0.17 contributed to a total EPS of $0.34, a 36% year-over-year increase.

In conclusion, Autoliv's Q1 2024 EPS surprise had a positive impact on investor confidence, given the company's strong financial performance, improved profitability, and consistent growth, which aligns with analyst expectations.