Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren Q1: Strong Start, Raises Forecast

Ralph Lauren reported a stronger-than-expected start to fiscal 2027, driven by high demand, higher average selling prices and strong performance in Asia (notably China) and North America. Q1 revenue rose 14% to about $2.0 billion (13% currency‑adjusted). Gross margin improved to 73.7%; adjusted operating income was $366 million (18.7% margin). Net income was $262 million and reported EPS was $4.28 (adjusted EPS $4.59). The company added 1.5 million new customers, held $1.9 billion in cash, returned over $300 million to shareholders via dividends and buybacks, and raised its full‑year guidance to mid‑single‑digit revenue growth and higher operating margin expectations.

Bank of America Names Stocks to Buy Before Earnings

Bank of America analysts say several stocks have upside ahead of upcoming quarterly reports and highlighted names investors should consider buying. The bank and CNBC Pro screened buy-rated companies including Spotify, Cisco, RB Global, Ralph Lauren and DoorDash. Bank of America analysts noted Spotify’s stable key performance indicators and accelerating revenue growth (citing moderating FX headwinds) and said the company’s AI product roadmap and pricing power are encouraging ahead of its August 4 earnings. RB Global (formerly Ritchie Brothers) and Ralph Lauren were also highlighted as attractive ahead of earnings on August 4, with analysts citing improving fundamentals and margin opportunities. The article reflects analyst recommendations and company-specific expectations rather than company financial releases themselves.

Luxury retailers lean on outlets for growth

Luxury retailers including Tapestry-owned Coach and Ralph Lauren are investing in and elevating outlet stores to attract aspirational, value-conscious shoppers as demand for luxury softens. Consulting firm Bain reports the luxury market lost about 70 million customers since 2022, and a luxury-focused fund (USLUX) is down about 7% year to date per FactSet. Analysts from Citi, Bernstein and Wells Fargo say upgrading outlet assortments and mixing made-for-factory items with select full-price goods can broaden customer bases and support sales and share-price upside for companies such as Ralph Lauren, Tapestry and Capri Holdings (Michael Kors). Analysts cite rising full-price focus, improved outlet product quality, and easier customer acquisition via elevated outlet experiences.