Abercrombie & Fitch (ANF) shares plummeted on Wednesday, shedding over 10% in early trading after the retailer reported weaker-than-expected earnings for the fourth quarter.
Despite narrowly beating revenue expectations with $1.58 billion in sales, the company fell short on earnings per share (EPS), posting $3.57 against an anticipated $3.54.
More concerning for investors was the company’s cautious guidance for 2025. Management forecasted revenue growth of 3-5% for the full year, a steep slowdown from the 16% expansion in 2024. Operating margins, which hit a decade-high 15% last year, are expected to remain flat or decline slightly, signaling potential profitability pressures ahead.
More concerning for investors was the company’s cautious guidance for 2025. Management forecasted revenue growth of 3-5% for the full year, a steep slowdown from the 16% expansion in 2024. Operating margins, which hit a decade-high 15% last year, are expected to remain flat or decline slightly, signaling potential profitability pressures ahead.
Tariffs and Consumer Demand Weigh on Outlook
One major factor behind Abercrombie’s cautious guidance is the anticipated impact of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada. While the company has been working to adjust its supply chain, the new trade policies could create up to 100 basis points of margin pressure.
Additionally, consumer spending uncertainty looms large. While the company’s Hollister brand delivered an impressive 16% sales growth, the flagship Abercrombie division saw weaker-than-expected holiday sales, reflecting potential shifts in demand. The first-quarter EPS outlook of $1.25 to $1.45 also fell short of analyst projections of $1.96, reinforcing concerns about a slowdown.
Buyback Program Signals Confidence
Despite the market’s negative reaction, Abercrombie’s leadership is moving to reassure investors. The board authorized a $1.3 billion share repurchase program, with plans to deploy $400 million of it in 2025. At current stock prices, this could reduce outstanding shares by 10%, potentially boosting future EPS.
While the stock’s steep drop reflects investor disappointment, history shows that significant pullbacks can create opportunities. Abercrombie is down nearly 60% from its 52-week high of $192.34, despite its strong financial position and continued sales growth. Whether the selloff is an overreaction or a sign of deeper trouble will depend on how well the company navigates the coming challenges.
Despite the market’s negative reaction, Abercrombie’s leadership is moving to reassure investors. The board authorized a $1.3 billion share repurchase program, with plans to deploy $400 million of it in 2025. At current stock prices, this could reduce outstanding shares by 10%, potentially boosting future EPS.
While the stock’s steep drop reflects investor disappointment, history shows that significant pullbacks can create opportunities. Abercrombie is down nearly 60% from its 52-week high of $192.34, despite its strong financial position and continued sales growth. Whether the selloff is an overreaction or a sign of deeper trouble will depend on how well the company navigates the coming challenges.
Considering a $1,000 investment in these companies?
Our team at Stock Investor carefully curated a list of top stocks with the potential for significant returns, suitable for beginners and seasoned investors alike who are eager to learn a trade and unearth the best stocks to buy. Though not featured in this article, these selected stocks could be game-changers in the future.For those seeking dynamic trading experiences, consider joining our Swing Trade Alerts, Option Income Alert, or our Trading Room. Take advantage of our special offer today, starting at just $1 in the first month.
Unlock the secrets of Smart Money
Explore how billionaires and institutions are influencing the market. Follow their every move with DarkOption Flow and stay updated on essential market insights. Begin your journey to informed investing today!
Education
And if you're a fan of Invest opedia, you'll appreciate what we offer at SharperTrades even more. Explore our comprehensive option trading course and technical trading course, where you can learn trading, analyze stocks, delve into chart patterns for stocks, and gain invaluable insights for making the best company investments.
Unlock Your Stock Market Edge with SharperTrades. Dive into powerful trading tools, learn a trade, and receive expert guidance. Stay up-to-date with regular market updates. Learn trading, basics of investing, and how to pick the best stocks to buy. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned investor and trader, we've got you covered. Get started for free, today!