0757 ET - There is potential for Carnival to modestly beat 3Q EPS expectations, as better-than-expected yields more than offset higher fuel costs, according to William Blair in a note. Analysts Sharon Zackfia and Francis Tian expect net yields to rise about 2%, topping Wall Street estimates for a 1% increase, on the back of stronger-than-anticipated last minute booking demand and continually strong onboard spending trends. The upside would put Carnival in a good position to potentially raise its full-year net yield outlook, they say, even as higher fuel prices continue to pressure earnings. Carnival is scheduled to report 3Q results on Sept. 29.