Sensient Technologies Corp (SXT) saw its stock price surge 5.81% during pre-market trading on Friday, as investors reacted positively to an upbeat earnings forecast ahead of the company's quarterly results.

The movement comes after an earnings preview indicated that Sensient's first-quarter earnings per share are forecast at 84 cents, compared with 81 cents in the prior-year period. This expected year-over-year improvement in profitability appears to have boosted investor confidence in the specialty chemicals and flavors company.

Pre-market trading activity suggests market participants are positioning for a strong earnings report from Sensient, with the positive EPS forecast driving early buying interest before the regular trading session begins.