Victoria's Secret & Co. has seen a significant rise in its stock price following the announcement of an improved annual sales forecast, driven by strong third-quarter results and positive consumer response to holiday merchandise.
Victoria's Secret & Co. (NYSE: VSCO) has experienced a notable surge in its stock price, reaching its highest level since May 2022. This comes after the company raised its full-year sales forecast, signaling a successful turnaround strategy under the leadership of new CEO Hillary Super. The lingerie giant's shares rose as much as 13.2% to $48.70, marking a 62% increase year-to-date, significantly outperforming the Russell 2000 Index.
The company reported third-quarter revenue of $1.35 billion, surpassing analysts' expectations of $1.29 billion, and posted an adjusted loss per share of 50 cents, better than the anticipated 63 cents loss. This performance was bolstered by strong sales across all brands, including Victoria's Secret, PINK, and Adore Me, with international business growth exceeding 20%.
Victoria's Secret's improved outlook now projects fiscal year 2024 net sales to increase by 1% to 2%, a revision from the previous forecast of a 1% decline. The company also anticipates annual adjusted operating income to reach up to $345 million, a 15% increase from earlier projections.
The positive momentum continued through key retail events such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday, with the company's holiday merchandise receiving an early positive response from consumers. This success is attributed to effective marketing strategies, including the PINK back-to-campus campaign and the VSX sport launch.
Brokerages have shown mixed reactions, with four out of twelve rating the stock as "buy" or higher, while others remain cautious. Despite this, the market's response to the company's strategic initiatives and leadership changes has been overwhelmingly positive, as reflected in the stock's performance.
Victoria's Secret's commitment to brand repositioning and merchandise strategy, coupled with enhanced store experiences and digital engagement, has positioned the company for continued growth. The company's ability to navigate a challenging retail environment and capitalize on consumer trends underscores its resilience and adaptability in the competitive lingerie market.
MetLife Investment Management is set to acquire PineBridge Investments for up to $1.2 billion, expanding its global asset management footprint.
Prosus NV is set to acquire Despegar.com, Latin America's leading online travel agency, for $1.7 billion. The acquisition aims to enhance Prosus's presence in the Latin American market, leveraging Despegar's established platform and Prosus's technological expertise.
Nordstrom is set to be taken private in a $6.25 billion deal by its founding family and Mexican retailer El Puerto de Liverpool, marking a significant shift in the company's ownership structure.
News Corp has agreed to sell its Australian cable TV unit Foxtel to DAZN for $2.1 billion, marking a strategic shift towards publishing and digital real estate.
Equinor has successfully increased its stake in Danish energy company Ørsted to 10%, following its initial announcement in October. The acquisition was completed after receiving necessary regulatory approvals.
L'Oreal has announced the acquisition of Gowoonsesang Cosmetics, including the popular South Korean skincare brand Dr.G, from Swiss retailer Migros, marking a significant expansion in the K-Beauty market.
Aviva Plc has agreed to acquire Direct Line Insurance Group Plc for £3.7 billion ($4.65 billion), a move that will establish the largest motor insurer in the UK.
As 2024 comes to a close, market analysts are predicting a mixed outlook for 2025, with potential gains in large-cap stocks and continued volatility in small-cap sectors. Key factors include interest rate decisions, geopolitical tensions, and technological advancements.
Party City, a leading retailer in the party supplies industry, has filed for bankruptcy and announced the closure of all its stores, marking the end of nearly 40 years in business.
Honda and Nissan have announced plans to merge by 2026, creating the world's third-largest automaker. The merger aims to enhance competitiveness in the electric vehicle market and address financial challenges.