WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Any changes in sales trends.

Nike has managed to defy most economic trends of the down economy, selling more of its shoes, clothing and other gear to consumers around the globe. These gains were slower at times than in pre-recession years, but Nike has still managed to outperform many other consumer product companies.

Strong sales have helped the Beaverton, Ore.-based company overcome higher costs for freight and labor. And its popularity has allowed it to raise prices without much fear of consumer backlash.

WHY IT MATTERS: Nike is a major global corporation, and its results provide insight into challenges facing the industry. It also provides a glimpse at how willing consumers worldwide are to spend their money, which is key to an economic recovery.

WHAT'S EXPECTED: Analysts polled by FactSet, on average, expect Nike will earn 97 cents per share on revenue of $5.63 billion.

LAST YEAR'S QUARTER: Nike earned $457 million, or 94 cents per share, on revenue of $4.8 billion.