How investors should think about Salesforce's mixed guidance

Salesforce signage outside its office building in New York.
Scott Mlyn | CNBC

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Investing Club holding Salesforce (CRM) reported better-than-expected third-quarter results Tuesday after the closing bell. On the top line, revenue of $6.86 billion (+26% YoY) outpaced expectations of $6.79 billion. On the bottom line, non-GAAP earnings of $1.27 per share (-27% YoY) were better than the $0.92 per share consensus. However, it is important to note that the earnings results include a $0.28  per-share benefit related to the mark-to-market accounting for the company's strategic investments. Even without this boost, the core earnings result of $0.99 per share was still ahead of the consensus.