Arbitrary estimates of Citi are below consensus estimates as revealed by its own statement. 

This strengthens my belief that estimates used to forecast future performance is not entirely scientific but more an art than anything else. 

I'm also surprised that the writer is defending his argument that the views of majority analysts are "bullish" when everyone including him based their future forecasting on arbitrary estimates. So, he is saying his is better than the others and then the next moments the others would come with another article commenting on the contrary, not forgetting that it's the investors money that's at stake not theirs unless they stake their money on their predictions, not like a fortune teller who has his cake and eat it. 

Having said all this I have to qualify that I'm not against analyst's forecasting but merely reminding them that they all have the responsibility to be professional and consideration of the investors when they make their predictions that's based on arbitrary estimates, for their remarks could affect market sentiment if it's too 'dramatic'.

Just my view and I like to hear from the others if any. Good luck!