EU and US could reach trade deal this weekend - Reuters
On Thursday, Bernstein analysts maintained their Outperform rating on Adidas AG (ETR:ADSGN) (OTC: ADDYY) shares, with a steady price target of $162.25, representing an 11% upside from current levels. The firm’s commentary highlighted the brand’s robust performance amidst a turbulent market, noting its sixth consecutive quarter of pre-announced results that surpassed expectations. According to InvestingPro data, Adidas (OTC:ADDYY) maintains a "GOOD" overall financial health score, with particularly strong momentum and cash flow metrics.
Adidas reported a significant 17% currency-neutral (cc) growth in underlying sales and an EBIT margin of 9.9% for the first quarter. This performance outdid the consensus forecast, which anticipated a 15% increase. The growth was attributed to strong demand across all regions, channels, and product categories. The company’s revenue growth of 10.5% over the last twelve months and robust free cash flow yield of 6% demonstrate its operational strength. InvestingPro subscribers can access 7 additional key tips about Adidas’s market position and financial metrics.
Despite the current uncertainty due to factors like tariffs and the global economic climate, Adidas did not update its guidance. With analysts forecasting EPS of $8.74 for FY2025 and the company maintaining a moderate debt level, Bernstein anticipates that more details will be provided during the Q1 earnings call scheduled for April 29, 2025. The firm pointed out that the consistent demand for Adidas products has bolstered the confidence of retail partners.
The company’s gross margin stood at 52.1%, which represents a substantial 160 basis points (bps) underlying improvement for the Adidas brand. The current gross profit margin of 50.8% over the last twelve months reflects the company’s pricing power. Additionally, the operating margin showed a notable year-over-year increase of 460 bps on an underlying basis to 9.9%, exceeding expectations by 100 bps.
Bernstein also noted that despite the uncertain market conditions, Adidas management has retained their forecasts for the full year and medium term. More information on how the guidance might be affected by various macroeconomic scenarios is expected to be shared in the upcoming earnings call.
In other recent news, Adidas AG has been the subject of several analyst upgrades and evaluations. HSBC upgraded Adidas from Hold to Buy while trimming the price target to €240.00, citing the company’s potential to gain market share amid challenging economic conditions. Similarly, Baird raised its rating to Outperform with a target of €240.00, expressing confidence in Adidas’s brand momentum and product pipeline. BofA Securities also upgraded Adidas to Buy, albeit with a reduced price target of EUR260, highlighting operational efficiencies and reduced tariff risks.
Berenberg initiated coverage with a Hold rating and a price target of €230.00, acknowledging the company’s strong brand momentum but expressing caution about its ambitious financial targets. RBC Capital Markets identified Adidas as an attractive Outperform idea, citing strong brand visibility and wholesale order book strength. Despite these positive assessments, some analysts have expressed concerns over potential challenges, including the impact of U.S. trade policies and ambitious financial goals. These developments reflect a generally optimistic outlook on Adidas, with analysts pointing to the company’s strong brand and operational strategies as key factors for future performance.
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