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NEW YORK - American Eagle Outfitters , Inc. (NYSE:AEO) reported fourth quarter earnings that beat analyst estimates, but shares tumbled 6.3% in after-hours trading as the company provided weak guidance for the first quarter of 2025.
The apparel retailer posted adjusted earnings per share of $0.54 for the fourth quarter, surpassing the analyst consensus of $0.51. Revenue came in at $1.6 billion, in line with expectations. Comparable sales increased 3% YoY, with the Aerie brand growing 6% and American Eagle up 1%.
However, American Eagle warned of a slower start to the first quarter of 2025, citing weaker consumer demand and colder weather. The company expects revenue to decline in the mid-single digits for Q1, with operating income projected between $20 million to $25 million.
"Entering 2025, the first quarter is off to a slower start than expected, reflecting less robust demand and colder weather," said Jay Schottenstein, AEO’s Executive Chairman and CEO. "While we anticipate improvement as the Spring season gets underway, we are also taking proactive steps to strengthen the top-line, manage inventory and reduce expenses."
For the full fiscal year 2024, American Eagle reported total revenue of $5.3 billion, up 1% YoY. Comparable sales increased 4%, with Aerie growing 5% and American Eagle up 3%.
The company’s board authorized an additional 50 million shares for repurchase, bringing the total available to 68.5 million through February 2029. American Eagle repurchased 9.5 million shares for $191 million in fiscal 2024.
Looking ahead to fiscal 2025, American Eagle projects a low-single digit revenue decline and operating income between $360 million to $375 million, reflecting near-term headwinds in the consumer environment.
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