Mattel (NASDAQ:MAT) Azioni

MATTEL INC

Mattel

Mattel manufactures and markets toy products that are sold to its wholesale customers and direct to retail consumers. The company offers products for children and families, including toys for infants and preschoolers, girls and boys, youth electronics, hand-held and other games, puzzles, educational toys, media-driven products, and plush and fashion-related toys. Mattel's owned portfolio includes Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, Thomas & Friends, and American Girl. In addition, it currently manufactures toy products for its segments both internally and externally (through manufacturing partners). Nearly 60% of its net sales were generated from North America in 2024, with the remainder stemming from international markets.

Craig Shapiro, a macro strategist at The Bear Traps Report, says that President Donald Trump&#8217;s approach to inflation management is not that unlike &#8220;running a protection racket,&#8221; one that is built on coercion and intimidation, rather than the use of monetary tools.
What Happened: &#8220;Trump isn't fighting inflation with traditional tools,&#8221; Shapiro said on Monday, in a post on X, adding that &#8220;He's managing it like a boss running a protection racket.&#8221;
According to Shapiro, Trump&#8217;s strategy hinges on behavioral enforcement via public shaming, regulatory threats, and backroom pressure tactics to influence corporate pricing behavior, instead of fiscal and monetary controls.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/forex/25/07/46272823/as-us-dollar-sinks-top-economist-warns-10-slide-could-spark-new-inflation-spike">As US Dollar Sinks, Top Economist Warns 10% Slide Could Spark New Inflation Spike</a>
He cites several examples of this, starting with his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45530157/peter-schiff-slams-trumps-eat-the-tariffs-message-to-walmart-he-might-as-well-ask-it-to-eat-rent-wag">&#8220;eat the tariffs&#8221; remark</a> to Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>), <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45769527/trump-threatened-tariffs-on-apple-and-mattel-why-the-barbie-maker-could-slide-free-but-tim-cooks-com">the tariffs threat</a> to Mattel Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>) and Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), and so much more. 
Shapiro calls this model &#8220;Protection Racket Capitalism,&#8221; where major corporations like Walmart, Apple, and Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) play the role of capos expected to enforce price discipline in their respective sectors. &#8220;Maintain discipline in your territory, or else,&#8221; he says.
&#8220;Meanwhile,&#8221; he says, Trump is using other policy tools, such as running deficits, imposing tariffs and pursuing deregulation, all of which he says are inflationary, while the &#8220;narrative is being held together by intimidation.&#8221;
The biggest vulnerability, according to Shapiro, is structural inflation. &#8220;You can jawbone Walmart,&#8221; he says. &#8220;You can threaten refiners. But you can't jawbone the rent.&#8221;
In conclusion, he states that if core inflation metrics were to reaccelerate in late-2025, this entire &#8220;Boss Economy&#8221; model could unravel, revealing a fragile narrative being held together, not by policy strength, but by optics and intimidation. 
<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Trump isn't fighting inflation with traditional tools. He's managing it like a boss running a protection racket. Welcome to the Boss Economy: a world where prices are controlled by fear, favor, and direct intervention from the top. &#x1f9f5;
&mdash; Craig Shapiro (@ces921) <a href="https://twitter.com/ces921/status/1942192955885773235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Why It Matters: This is precisely what Economist Peter Schiff had warned several months ago when Trump had asked Walmart to &#8220;eat the tariffs&#8221; and not pass on the costs to consumers. 
&#8220;Trump said Walmart should eat the tariffs. He might as well tell Walmart to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45530157/peter-schiff-slams-trumps-eat-the-tariffs-message-to-walmart-he-might-as-well-ask-it-to-eat-rent-wag">eat its rent</a>, wages, insurance, utilities, and all of its other costs too,&#8221; Schiff said.
Besides this, Yardeni Research President&nbsp;Ed Yardeni, believes that Trump&#8217;s tariffs have not been inflationary thus far, because falling oil and goods prices are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44828850/trump-tariffs-may-not-ignite-inflation-after-all-says-yardeni?">providing a deflationary backdrop</a>. 
Read More: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/25/07/46290263/is-china-dodging-us-tariffs-direct-exports-to-america-plunge-43-as-vietnam-and-indonesia-see-big-spurts-report">Is China Dodging US Tariffs? Direct Exports To America Plunge 43% As Vietnam And Indonesia See Big Spurts: Report</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Rawpixel.com / Shutterstock.com

Politics

AAPL

Trump Manages Inflation Like 'Boss Running A Protection Racket,' Says Craig Shapiro: 'You Can Jawbone Walmart, But Not The Rent'

Mattel's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NYSE">MAT</a>) short percent of float has fallen 18.67% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 9.00 million shares sold short, which is 4.53% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 4.11 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Mattel Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1751911267_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Mattel has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Mattel's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Mattel's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 9.10%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

Trading Ideas

How Do Investors Really Feel About Mattel?

Toy prices in the U.S. have hit record highs due to new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, impacting an industry largely dependent on Chinese imports.
What Happened: The price of games and playground equipment has seen a record 2.2% surge between April and May. This inflation rate is significantly higher than the 0.1% inflation for all items in the same period, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/06/24/toy-prices-tariffs-inflation/">reported</a> The Washington Post on Tuesday.
More than 75% of toys sold in the U.S. are imported from China, leaving the industry especially vulnerable to the trade war sparked by the President, data from the Census Bureau shows. Some of the toys are also imported from South Korea, Japan and other European countries. Experts expect these price increases to persist in the coming months, as more manufacturers and retailers are forced to pass on higher costs to consumers.
Despite the tariffs on Chinese imports reaching as high as 145% this year, they currently stand at 30%, owing to a 90-day reprieve that is set to expire in early August. The Trump administration, which exempted the toy industry from the 25% tariffs on China during the first term, has not extended this exemption. The publication reported that the toy makers are swiftly increasing prices—by up to 36%—to counter the impact of tariffs.
Caroline Rodrigues, who owns toy shops in Los Angeles and Portland, Oregon, stated, "There's just no escaping China.&#8221;
SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46109077/eric-trump-shelves-plan-to-bring-trump-branded-property-in-israels-tel-aviv-amid-ongoing-regional-tensions-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Trump Shelves Plan To Bring Trump-Branded Property In Israel&#8217;s Tel Aviv Amid Ongoing Regional Tensions: Report &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Why It Matters: The imposition of tariffs on Chinese imports has been a contentious issue throughout Trump&#8217;s presidency. The toy industry has been particularly affected, with prices rising and consumers feeling the pinch. This is notable in the context of Trump&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/05/45144516/trump-a-grinch-or-santa-for-christmas-children-will-have-two-dolls-instead-of-30-dolls">prediction in May</a> that children would &#8220;probably just do fine with fewer toys.&#8221;
Despite the tariffs, toy company&nbsp;Mattel Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>) managed to&nbsp;beat <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/05/45264016/trumps-tariffs-hit-mattels-barbies-will-americans-pay-a-couple-of-bucks-more-as-president-predicts">analyst estimates&nbsp;</a>for first-quarter revenue and earnings per share. The company is now preparing to raise prices ahead of Christmas, a move that could further impact consumers.
Trump&#8217;s tariffs have also affected other industries, such as the&nbsp;Chinese <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/45902627/us-listed-chinese-tech-and-ev-stocks-slide-as-trump-confirms-china-trade-deal">tech and EV </a>stocks&nbsp;listed in the U.S., despite&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/05/45264016/trumps-tariffs-hit-mattels-barbies-will-americans-pay-a-couple-of-bucks-more-as-president-predicts">inflation data </a>coming in softer&nbsp;than expected for May. This suggests that the impact of Trump&#8217;s trade policies is far-reaching and could have significant implications for the U.S. economy.
Over the past year, shares of Mattel surged 18.05%, as per <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>. 
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<li>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/25/06/46107772/tim-draper-says-this-will-be-the-fate-of-bitcoin-and-the-dollar-in-5-years-billionaire-highlights-apps-built-on-btc-that-matter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tim Draper Says This Will Be The Fate Of Bitcoin And The Dollar In 5 Years — Billionaire Highlights Apps Built On BTC That Matter &#8211; Benzinga</a></li>
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Image via Shutterstock
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

News

Toy Prices See Unprecedented Surge As Trump Tariffs Take A Toll: 'There's Just No Escaping China'

5 analysts have shared their evaluations of Mattel (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>) during the recent three months, expressing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The table below summarizes their recent ratings, showcasing the evolving sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Insights from analysts' 12-month price targets are revealed, presenting an average target of $22.8, a high estimate of $30.00, and a low estimate of $17.00. Marking an increase of 2.7%, the current average surpasses the previous average price target of $22.20. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1750100436_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look</h2>
An in-depth analysis of recent analyst actions unveils how financial experts perceive Mattel. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>James Hardiman</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$24.00</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Baker</td>
<td>DA Davidson</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephen Laszczyk</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$21.00</td>
<td>$24.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Hardiman</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Megan Alexander</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
<td>$16.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Mattel. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Delving into assessments, analysts assign qualitative values, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings communicate expectations for the relative performance of Mattel compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Mattel's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Assessing these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators can provide a comprehensive overview of Mattel's market position. Stay informed and make well-judged decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MAT/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Mattel analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>About Mattel</h2>
Mattel manufactures and markets toy products that are sold to its wholesale customers and direct to retail consumers. The company offers products for children and families, including toys for infants and preschoolers, girls and boys, youth electronics, hand-held and other games, puzzles, educational toys, media-driven products, and plush and fashion-related toys. Mattel's owned portfolio includes Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, Thomas &amp; Friends, and American Girl. In addition, it currently manufactures toy products for its segments both internally and externally (through manufacturing partners). Nearly 60% of its net sales were generated from North America in 2024, with the remainder stemming from international markets.
<h3>Understanding the Numbers: Mattel's Finances</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Above industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization emphasizes a noteworthy size, indicative of a strong market presence.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Mattel's financials over 3M reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 2.11% as of 31 March, 2025, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Consumer Discretionary sector, the company faces challenges, achieving a growth rate lower than the average among peers.
Net Margin: Mattel's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive -4.88% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.
Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of -1.84%, the company showcases effective utilization of equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Mattel's ROA stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROA of -0.63%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.
Debt Management: Mattel's debt-to-equity ratio is notably higher than the industry average. With a ratio of 1.26, the company relies more heavily on borrowed funds, indicating a higher level of financial risk.
<h2>The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained</h2>
Ratings come from analysts, or specialists within banking and financial systems that report for specific stocks or defined sectors (typically once per quarter for each stock). Analysts usually derive their information from company conference calls and meetings, financial statements, and conversations with important insiders to reach their decisions.
Analysts may supplement their ratings with predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, offering investors a more comprehensive outlook. However, investors should be mindful that analysts, like any human, can have subjective perspectives influencing their forecasts.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Analyst Ratings

Breaking Down Mattel: 5 Analysts Share Their Views

Citigroup analyst James Hardiman maintains Mattel (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $22 to $24.

Price Target

Citigroup Maintains Buy on Mattel, Raises Price Target to $24

Mattel Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>) has reportedly entered into a partnership with OpenAI to explore new ways of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/artificial-intelligence">using artificial intelligence</a> in its toy lines and digital products.
Though the collaboration is still in its early stages, both companies say the first outcome of the partnership will be announced later this year.
Brad Lightcap, OpenAI's chief operating officer, and Josh Silverman, Mattel's chief franchise officer, shared insights into the collaboration during a joint interview with <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-12/mattel-taps-openai-to-help-it-design-toys-other-products?sref=TBDibEcD">Bloomberg</a>.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45769527/trump-threatened-tariffs-on-apple-and-mattel-why-the-barbie-maker-could-slide-free-but-tim-cooks-company-might-not" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Threatened Tariffs On Apple And Mattel—Why The Barbie Maker Could Slide Free, But Tim Cook&#8217;s Company Might Not</a>
Silverman emphasized that while the Barbie maker will use Microsoft Corp-backed (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) OpenAI's tools in the development process, the company is not licensing its intellectual property. Mattel will retain full control over any product resulting from the alliance.
The partnership could result in the development of interactive toys and digital experiences that incorporate AI, including the use of well-known Mattel characters as digital assistants or enhanced versions of classic games like Uno or the Magic 8 Ball.
The companies see the potential for AI to increase interactivity and engagement in Mattel's product lineup.
Discussions between Mattel and OpenAI began in late 2024.
The collaboration <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-12/mattel-taps-openai-to-help-it-design-toys-other-products?sref=TBDibEcD" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aligns</a> with Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz's strategy of transforming the company beyond traditional toys into a broader entertainment entity, focusing on films, TV shows, and mobile games based on its popular brands.
OpenAI, on the other hand, has been actively seeking partnerships with companies that own iconic intellectual property.
Last year, the AI firm held meetings in Los Angeles with Hollywood studios, media executives, and talent agencies to present Sora, its AI video generator capable of producing realistic, one-minute videos from text prompts.
Despite the buzz surrounding Sora, OpenAI has yet to secure formal deals with movie studios.
Lightcap acknowledged that the company still needs to build trust in Hollywood before partnerships can take shape, a point he reiterated at a Wall Street Journal conference in May.
"We plan to announce something towards the tail end of this year, and it&#8217;s really across the spectrum of physical products and some experiences," Silverman told Bloomberg.
The toymaker posted first-quarter 2025 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45260628/mattel-stock-jumps-following-q1-results-despite-paused-guidance-whats-going-on" rel="noreferrer noopener">revenue of $827 million</a>, surpassing analyst estimates of $786 million, and reported an adjusted loss of three cents per share—beating the expected 10-cent loss.
Due to macroeconomic volatility and uncertainty around U.S. tariffs, the company paused its full-year 2025 guidance, noting it will resume once visibility improves.
Mattel plans to accelerate supply chain diversification, optimize product sourcing, and raise prices to counter rising costs.
The company also increased its 2025 cost-saving goal from $60 million to $80 million, reinforcing its focus on efficiency as it navigates a turbulent economic environment.
Price Action: MAT stock is down 0.57% at $19.15&nbsp;during the premarket session at the last check on Thursday.
Read Next:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/45008049/shoes-toys-apparel-and-earbuds-may-disappear-from-shelves-first-as-us-china-trade-war-disrupts-supply-chains-retail-experts-warn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shoes, Toys, Apparel And Earbuds May Disappear From Shelves First As US-China Trade War Disrupts Supply Chains, Retail Experts Warn</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: rblfmr/Shutterstock

Large Cap

General

MSFT

Mattel Teams Up With OpenAI To Develop AI-Powered Interactive Toys

Mattel Says It 'will incorporate OpenAI's advanced AI tools like ChatGPT Enterprise into its business operations to enhance product development and creative ideation'

Mattel Announces Collaboration With OpenAI

<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-12/mattel-taps-openai-to-help-it-design-toys-other-products" title="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-12/mattel-taps-openai-to-help-it-design-toys-other-products">https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-12/mattel-taps-openai-to-help-it-design-toys-other-products</a>

Tech

Bloomberg Reported Mattel Taps OpenAI To Help It Design Toys, Other Products

Mattel's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NYSE">MAT</a>) short percent of float has risen 7.8% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 13.17 million shares sold short, which is 6.63% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.15 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Mattel Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1749218420_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Mattel has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Mattel's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Mattel's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 9.04%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Looking Into Mattel's Recent Short Interest

In May, President Donald Trump threatened to slap tariffs on Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Mattel Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>) over their hesitance to bring manufacturing back to the U.S. Now, experts are debating whether he actually has the legal power to follow through.
What Happened: These company-specific tariff threats could potentially face legal challenges, particularly in light of a recent decision by the U.S. Court of International Trade that questioned the President&#8217;s authority to impose tariffs without Congressional action. However, this decision was temporarily suspended by a Court of Appeals decision later.
Experts opine that despite potential legal challenges, Trump does have some means to levy tariffs on specific companies to enforce his demands, <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/02/business/trump-tariffs-apple-iphone-mattel-barbie?ref=biztoc.com">reported </a>CNN. At present, most of Trump's tariffs on Chinese imports exclude smartphones. However, a Morgan Stanley research note suggests the administration could target imported smartphones through a Section 232 investigation — a trade law provision that enables the President to impose tariffs on imports deemed a national security threat.
Although this could be a lengthy process, it is a potential tool for the administration to use on the Tim Cook-led company and target iPhones. Mattel, on the other hand, does not share the same concern, as it would be difficult to argue that Barbie dolls pose a national security threat.
Clark Packard, research fellow from Cato Institute, told CNN, "Courts are going to be fairly deferential on claims of national security by the executive branch&#8230;You're probably on a little firmer territory there (with smartphones) than you would be on Mattel."
SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45764422/white-house-says-trump-is-sticking-to-the-big-beautiful-bill-despite-elon-musks-sharp-criticism-it-doesnt-change-the-presidents-opinion" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">White House Says Trump Is &#8216;Sticking To&#8217; The &#8216;Big, Beautiful Bill&#8217; Despite Elon Musk&#8217;s Sharp Criticism: &#8216;It Doesn't Change The President's Opinion&#8217; &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Why It Matters: The tariff threats come in the wake of President Trump&#8217;s aggressive stance on trade. During mid-May, Trump <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45475854/he-wont-sell-one-toy-in-the-united-states-says-donald-trump-suggesting-a-100-tariff-on-mattel-which-he-seemed-to-mistake-for-a-country">targeted </a>toy giant Mattel as part of his ongoing trade dispute with China. A week later, he demanded that iPhones sold in the U.S. be manufactured domestically, threatening a 25% tariff on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45584696/trump-threatens-tim-cook-to-manufacture-iphones-in-the-us-or-face-at-least-25-tariffs">Apple Inc.</a> if this was not the case.
Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz told CNBC that the company plans to diversify its global sourcing so no single country, including China, accounts for more than 25% by the end of 2025. He ruled out shifting production back to the U.S., stating, &#8220;We don&#8217;t see that happening.&#8221;
Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly advancing a significant supply chain expansion in India via its leading manufacturing partner, Foxconn, also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HNHAF#OTC">HNHAF</a>), despite Trump&#8217;s &#8216;little problem with Tim Cook&#8217; on this matter. 
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<li>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/45762009/people-treat-you-differently-when-youre-rich-says-mark-cuban-he-thinks-money-makes-ugly-people-handso" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8216;</a><a href="https://benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/45762009/people-treat-you-differently-when-youre-rich-says-mark-cuban-he-thinks-money-makes-ugly-people-handso" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">People Treat You Differently&#8217; When You&#8217;re Rich, Says Mark Cuban. He Thinks Money &#8216;Makes Ugly People Handsome And Pretty&#8217;</a></li>
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Image via Shutterstock
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Markets

HNHAF

Trump Threatened Tariffs On Apple And Mattel—Why The Barbie Maker Could Slide Free, But Tim Cook's Company Might Not

US <a href="https://open.substack.com/pub/europeancapitalinsights/p/trumps-50-tariff-threat-deepens-policy?r=3nmatg&amp;utm_campaign=post&amp;utm_medium=web&amp;showWelcomeOnShare=false">President Donald Trump</a> has agreed to delay imposing a 50% tariff on European Union (EU) goods until July 9, following a phone call with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
The decision presents a brief but crucial opportunity for negotiations, as both sides aim to de-escalate a growing transatlantic trade standoff that has shaken European markets. The EU plans to impose&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-06/eu-targets-100-billion-of-us-goods-with-tariffs-if-talks-fail">approximately €100 billion</a>&nbsp;in additional tariffs on US goods if trade talks fail, Bloomberg reported.
"Europe is ready to advance talks swiftly and decisively," von der Leyen <a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.reuters.com/business/trump-extends-deadline-reach-eu-trade-deal-until-july-9-2025-05-25/">said</a>, noting the importance of the following weeks. "To reach a good deal, we would need the time until July 9."
French President Emmanuel Macron called for a return to "the lowest possible tariffs that will allow for fruitful exchanges." He noted that the dialogue between Trump and von der Leyen had opened the door for continued engagement.
Ireland's foreign minister, Simon Harris, added that these contacts present the opportunity for negotiations to move forward." <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/21/us-eu-trade-war-tariffs-ireland-cost-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tariffs of 25%</a> could reduce Ireland's GDP by 3.7% over seven years, the Economic and Social Research Institute said.
Markets responded positively, as the EuroStoxx 50 index gained 2% by Tuesday, erasing last week&#8217;s decline.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump Ramps Up Tariffs, Expresses Frustration</h2>
The decision to postpone tariffs followed a confusing stretch of signals from Washington. Trump started with a 10% tariff announcement in early April. He then ramped it up to 50% last week with a start date of June 1.
The EU "has been very difficult to deal with," Trump wrote on <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114556968834547173" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Truth Social.</a> "Our discussions with them are going nowhere!"
The sudden change rattled the European markets. Multinational firms like Mercedes-Benz (OTCPK: MBGAF), Stellantis (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STLA#NYSE">STLA</a>), and Mattel (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>) had already <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-04-30/trump-tariffs-leave-mercedes-vw-stellantis-staring-into-void" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">withdrawn their guidance</a>, citing policy uncertainty.
"Stocks and other risky assets are down as #Trump threatens a 50% tariff on EU goods as early as June," Jeroen Blokland, founder of the Netherlands-based Blokland Smart Multi-Asset Fund, wrote on <a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://x.com/jsblokland/status/1925894450573631887">X</a>, "While Trump&#8217;s behavior is nothing short of erratic, it&#8217;s not difficult to imagine why dealing with the EU is undoable."
Blokland accused the EU's "non-elected leaders" of being "disentangled from reality" and captured by an "an ideologist perspective" that thinks its "way of doing business is superior."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump's Tariffs Target Vital EU Export Sectors</h2>
Despite Blokland&#8217;s assessment, the EU remains dependent on US markets. In 2024, the US was the EU's top export destination, accounting for over €530 billion in goods, or 20.6% of total exports.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d6aeaa7-5fa1-412f-90bb-41995241ebbc_1356x934.png" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img decoding="async" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0d6aeaa7-5fa1-412f-90bb-41995241ebbc_1356x934.png" alt="" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">EU Exports to the US in 2024, source: <a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/databrowser/view/ds-059331__custom_15512878/bookmark/table?lang=en&amp;bookmarkId=22b503c2-b8e4-49f5-851f-4e8754c8a025">Euronews/Eurostat</a></figcaption></figure>
The proposed tariffs target several of the EU's most vital export sectors. Road vehicles alone contributed €51 billion to the 2024 trade figure, making the auto sector especially vulnerable.
Machinery, chemicals, vehicles, and pharmaceuticals—key pillars of the European industrial base—would be the most severely impacted. Pharmaceutical exports—worth nearly €120 billion—are also at risk. Ireland is particularly exposed due to its concentration of multinational pharmaceutical companies.
Already subject to 25% US import duties on steel, aluminum, and cars, the EU's manufacturing sector now faces the possibility of an even greater squeeze. A 50% tariff could shave 0.5% off the EU's GDP, according to Maria Demertzis of the Conference Board think tank. She cited European Commission modeling.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">US Tariffs Starting to Hurt European Industries</h2>
The escalating US trade policy has started to impact European industries.
On Monday, Volvo Cars (OTCPK: VLVLY) announced it would cut 3,000 white-collar jobs, roughly 15% of its office workforce, as part of a cost-cutting effort. The layoffs follow a broader €1.9 billion restructuring plan unveiled in April amid slowing electric vehicle demand, high costs, and deepening trade uncertainty.
Volvo CEO Håkan Samuelsson confirmed the decision in an interview with Reuters. "It's white collar in almost all areas, including R&amp;D, communication, human resources," he <a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/volvo-cars-cut-3000-jobs-restructuring-2025-05-26/#:~:text=%22It's%20white%20collar%20in%20almost,take%20on)%20bigger%20responsibilities.%22">said</a>. "So it's everywhere, and it's a considerable reduction."
<figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F38ac5d4f-1b93-4c28-9836-4e6b58b1d7b9_1600x690.png" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img decoding="async" src="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F38ac5d4f-1b93-4c28-9836-4e6b58b1d7b9_1600x690.png" alt="" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Volvo vs. EuroStoxx50 2021-Present, Source: TradingView</figcaption></figure>
The company's CFO, Fredrik Hansson, added that while most cuts would affect the company's Gothenburg headquarters, all departments would be impacted.
"No stone is left unturned," he said.
With much of Volvo's production based in Europe and China, the firm is more exposed to the fallout from US tariffs than many of its peers. The company has already warned that exporting its most affordable cars to the US could become untenable under the proposed measures.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">EU-US Trade Tensions Underscore Deeper Divide</h2>
The challenge of resolving the EU-US differences over trade policy has underscored deeper tensions within the alliance. The EU and the US differ over how to resolve the war in Ukraine, with Trump seeking a swift, peaceful end to the conflict.
Trump has repeatedly called climate change a &#8220;hoax&#8221; or a &#8220;scam,&#8221; while the EU has stayed committed to its energy transition. On a deeper economic and political level, the Trump administration is far more pragmatic than the "<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://x.com/Glenn_Diesen/status/1926175477292540121">excessively ideological</a>" EU.
The EU's "unprecedented amounts of legislation and bureaucracy," and "deliberate internal and external (trade) barriers," make "negotiations extremely hard," for the EU, Blokland wrote. "Another poor performance from Europe!"
The US is prioritizing the Americas and Asia in an increasingly "multipolar world," according to Glenn Diesen, a professor at the University of South-Eastern Norway, who wrote on X. The "relevance of Europe" continues to plummet in the eyes of the Americans, he added.
Disclaimer:
Any opinions expressed in this article are not to be considered investment advice and are solely those of the authors. European Capital Insights is not responsible for any financial decisions made based on the contents of this article. Readers may use this article for information and educational purposes only.&nbsp;
This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga&#8217;s reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

Government

Regulations

Eurozone

Econ #s

Opinion

STLA

Trump Sparks Fears Among European Car Makers With 50% Tariff Threat

Mattel's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NYSE">MAT</a>) short percent of float has fallen 13.87% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 12.22 million shares sold short, which is 6.15% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.88 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Mattel Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1747843230_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Mattel has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Mattel's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Mattel's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 9.42%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Mattel (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 1.55% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 16.21%. Currently, Mattel has a market capitalization of $6.49 billion. 
Buying $100 In MAT: If an investor had bought $100 of MAT stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $235.20 today based on a price of $20.10 for MAT at the time of writing.
<h3>Mattel's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1747759511_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

$100 Invested In This Stock 5 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

President Donald Trump has doubled down on his aggressive tariff stance, taking aim at toy giant Mattel Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>) as part of his ongoing trade dispute with China.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump&#8217;s Tariff Threat</h2>
In <a href="https://x.com/Acyn/status/1920505479543075300">remarks</a> from the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump seemed to mistake the company for a country, saying, "Mattel, I don't know, I'm not so sure, they also said, they're the only country I've heard they said, &#8216;Well, we're going to go counter, we're going to try going someplace else,&#8217; that's okay.&#8221;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Trump floats the idea of a 100% on toys from Mattel which refers to as a country <a href="https://t.co/LeHlHBckEI">pic.twitter.com/LeHlHBckEI</a>
&mdash; Acyn (@Acyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/1920505479543075300?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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He continued, "Let him go and we'll put a 100% tariff on his toys, and he won't sell one toy in the United States, and that's their biggest market."
Mattel recently announced plans to diversify its supply chain to reduce its reliance on Chinese manufacturing, a response to Trump's steep import tariffs.&nbsp;
CEO Ynon Kreiz told <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/06/mattel-ceo-toy-manufacturing-trump-tariffs.html?">CNBC</a> that the company is focused on global diversification, aiming to ensure that no single country will <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/05/45264015/trumps-tariffs-hit-mattels-barbies-will-americans-pay-a-couple-of-bucks-more-as-president-predicts">handle more than 25%</a> of its sourcing by the end of 2025, including China. Kreiz dismissed the idea of moving production back to the U.S., saying, "We don't see that happening."
The company&#8217;s shift comes as Trump pushes for more U.S.-based manufacturing, despite the higher costs this approach would impose on companies and consumers.&nbsp;
Trending: Nancy Pelosi Invested $5 Million In An AI Company Last Year — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elf-labs-ym?v=123">Here's How You Can Invest In Multiple Pre-IPO AI Startups With Just $1,000.</a>
Trump recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/05/45144516/trump-a-grinch-or-santa-for-christmas-children-will-have-two-dolls-instead-of-30-dolls">downplayed concerns</a> about the impact of tariffs on toy prices, saying children might just end up with "two dolls instead of 30" and that the remaining toys might "cost a couple of bucks more."
According to a recent New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/29/business/trump-tariffs-christmas-china.html">report</a>, around 80% of all toys and 90% of all Christmas decorations sold in the U.S. are produced in China. With tariffs of up to 145% currently in place, many companies have paused new orders, further threatening the availability of popular holiday items.
Industry experts have warned that these tariffs could result in a significant toy shortage this Christmas. Toy Association's CEO Greg Ahearn told the Times that the situation is a "frozen supply chain" and called for a 24-month reprieve on tariffs to give manufacturers time to adjust their sourcing strategies.
See Also: Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/a-cure-for-osteoarthritis-powered-by-everyday-investors-cytonics-is-looking-to-beat-big-pharma-and-disrupt-a-390-billion-market"> Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold</a>.
Mattel, the maker of iconic brands like Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Fisher-Price, has been gradually reducing its reliance on China for nearly a decade. CEO Kreiz told CNBC that by the end of 2025, the company aims to have no single country handle more than a quarter of its production. However, this global diversification strategy has not included a significant move toward U.S. manufacturing.
Trump's latest comments suggest the White House is prepared to penalize companies that try to sidestep his trade policies. "I wouldn't want to have him as an executive too long," Trump said, seemingly referencing Kreiz's strategy to diversify rather than relocate production to the U.S.
With the holiday season fast approaching, the question remains whether parents will be willing to pay higher prices for fewer toys as Trump's trade policies continue to ripple through the retail sector.
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Image: Shutterstock

'He Won't Sell One Toy In The United States,' Says Donald Trump Suggesting A 100% Tariff On Mattel Which He Seemed To Mistake For A Country

The Port of Los Angeles, the busiest in the Western Hemisphere, has seen a 35% drop in cargo volume compared to the same period last year, according to Gene Seroka, the port&#8217;s executive director. The drop reflects the harsh impact of recent tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump&#8217;s administration.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pushback on Fox News</h2>
The economic fallout from these tariffs sparked a heated exchange on the recent Fox News &#8220;The Five&#8221; <a href="https://x.com/JessicaTarlov/status/1920159291530485767">show</a>. One of the hosts, Jessica Tarlov, argued that despite the administration&#8217;s attempts to downplay the impact, the consequences are already being felt.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">The executive director of the port of Los Angeles talked about how the port is now down 35% in terms of volume. He says truckers and dockworkers are going to be laid off. It&#39;s incredible the Trump Administration is acting like this isn't a big deal. <a href="https://t.co/wOt3ADHHtq">pic.twitter.com/wOt3ADHHtq</a>
&mdash; Jessica Tarlov (@JessicaTarlov) <a href="https://twitter.com/JessicaTarlov/status/1920159291530485767?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
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&#8220;Prices are already going up,&#8221; Tarlov said, highlighting layoffs at a Mack truck plant in Pennsylvania and rising costs hitting major companies like Microsoft (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) and Mattel (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>). She pointed to the executive director of the Port of Los Angeles, who, besides reporting a 35% drop in cargo volume, also warned that truckers and dock workers could soon face significant layoffs.
When co-hosts Jeanine Pirro and Greg Gutfeld tried to push back, suggesting that there&#8217;s always talk about layoffs but they never happen, Tarlov shot back, &#8220;It&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/04/44642355/trumps-25-auto-tariffs-spark-stellantis-layoffs-gm-expansion-uaws-shawn-fain-calls-job-cuts-completely-unnecessary">not true that it doesn&#8217;t happen</a>&#8230; These are real consequences.&#8221;
As she wrote in a <a href="https://x.com/JessicaTarlov/status/1920159291530485767">post on X</a> on Wednesday, &#8220;It&#8217;s incredible the Trump Administration is acting like this isn't a big deal.&#8221;
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She argued that countries are finding ways to adapt to the tariffs, noting that Canada has increased its exports to other markets by 25% since the tariffs were introduced. Co-host Jesse Watters challenged this claim, insisting that Canada&#8217;s economy is struggling, but Tarlov stood firm, saying, &#8220;I do look at the statistics all day.&#8221;
She also cited comments from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who, at the time, acknowledged that the U.S. hadn&#8217;t had direct trade talks with China, despite Trump&#8217;s claims to the contrary. Tarlov noted that Bessent told Congress the administration has engaged with 17 countries about trade, but not China, which remains the critical player in the ongoing dispute.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Impact on Workers and Local Businesses</h2>
For workers like Charlie Camacho, a longshore worker whose family has worked at the port for three generations, the decline is already hitting home. Speaking to <a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/05/07/nx-s1-5389955/los-angeles-port-tariffs">NPR</a>, Camacho described the struggle to find work as container volumes plummet. &#8220;Less volume of cargo containers means less work for us,&#8221; he said. &#8220;We feel it, we definitely feel it.&#8221;
It&#8217;s not just dockworkers feeling the squeeze. Small business owners like Frank Groves, who sells gloves and safety gear to port workers, have also seen their income collapse. Groves told NPR that his business is down nearly 75% in recent weeks. &#8220;No sales at all really. If they aren&#8217;t working, I don&#8217;t make money,&#8221; he said.
Even if the tariffs were to be lifted soon, some experts say the damage could be long-lasting. Former Los Angeles City Harbor Commissioner Diane Middleton warned that supply chains can&#8217;t be rebuilt overnight. &#8220;You don&#8217;t just have ships lined up like taxi cabs,&#8221; she told NPR, noting that the logistical challenges of reversing these disruptions could linger for months, if not years. &#8220;You have to reserve vessels. You have to specify a time. Once you&#8217;ve cut all that off, you can&#8217;t bring it back in a minute.&#8221;
As the debate over tariffs continues, it's clear that the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45183970/behind-the-empty-docks-how-trumps-145-tariffs-are-gutting-u-s-supply-chains">economic fallout</a> is already hitting American businesses and workers hard, despite the administration&#8217;s attempts to downplay the impact.
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Image: Shutterstock

'It's Incredible The Trump Administration Is Acting Like This Isn't A Big Deal,' Says Fox Host As LA Port Volume Drops 35% And Layoffs Loom

Throughout the last three months, 4 analysts have evaluated Mattel (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>), offering a diverse set of opinions from bullish to bearish.
The following table encapsulates their recent ratings, offering a glimpse into the evolving sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The 12-month price targets assessed by analysts reveal further insights, featuring an average target of $22.5, a high estimate of $30.00, and a low estimate of $17.00. Surpassing the previous average price target of $22.25, the current average has increased by 1.12%.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1747310472_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Diving into Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Exploration</h2>
The analysis of recent analyst actions sheds light on the perception of Mattel by financial experts. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Michael Baker</td>
<td>DA Davidson</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephen Laszczyk</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$21.00</td>
<td>$24.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>James Hardiman</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$22.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Megan Alexander</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
<td>$16.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Mattel. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts unravel qualitative evaluations for stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings offer insights into expectations for the relative performance of Mattel compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Mattel's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
To gain a panoramic view of Mattel's market performance, explore these analyst evaluations alongside essential financial indicators. Stay informed and make judicious decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MAT/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Mattel analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Unveiling the Story Behind Mattel</h2>
Mattel manufactures and markets toy products that are sold to its wholesale customers and direct to retail consumers. The company offers products for children and families, including toys for infants and preschoolers, girls and boys, youth electronics, hand-held and other games, puzzles, educational toys, media-driven products, and plush and fashion-related toys. Mattel's owned portfolio includes Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, Thomas &amp; Friends, and American Girl. In addition, it currently manufactures toy products for its segments both internally and externally (through manufacturing partners). Nearly 60% of its net sales were generated from North America in 2024, with the remainder stemming from international markets.
<h3>Mattel: Delving into Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization: Exceeding industry standards, the company's market capitalization places it above industry average in size relative to peers. This emphasizes its significant scale and robust market position.
Revenue Growth: Over the 3M period, Mattel showcased positive performance, achieving a revenue growth rate of 2.11% as of 31 March, 2025. This reflects a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Consumer Discretionary sector.
Net Margin: Mattel's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of -4.88%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Mattel's ROE stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROE of -1.84%, the company demonstrates effective use of equity capital and strong financial performance.
Return on Assets (ROA): Mattel's ROA stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROA of -0.63%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.
Debt Management: Mattel's debt-to-equity ratio surpasses industry norms, standing at 1.26. This suggests the company carries a substantial amount of debt, posing potential financial challenges.
<h2>The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained</h2>
Analyst ratings serve as essential indicators of stock performance, provided by experts in banking and financial systems. These specialists diligently analyze company financial statements, participate in conference calls, and engage with insiders to generate quarterly ratings for individual stocks.
Analysts may enhance their evaluations by incorporating forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, delivering additional guidance to investors. It is vital to acknowledge that, although experts in stocks and sectors, analysts are human and express their opinions when providing insights.
Which Stocks Are Analysts Recommending Now?
Benzinga Edge gives you instant access to all major analyst upgrades, downgrades, and price targets. Sort by accuracy, upside potential, and more. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=be8be9arja3be22bz21&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here to stay ahead of the market</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Where Mattel Stands With Analysts

DA Davidson analyst Michael Baker assumes Mattel (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>) with a Buy rating and maintains Price Target of $30.

Initiation

DA Davidson Assumes Mattel at Buy, Maintains Price Target of $30

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) was 2.3% higher than a year ago, the Bureau of Labor Statistics said Tuesday, below the economists&#8217; expectations of 2.4% <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/05/45374267/inflation-eases-in-april-as-trumps-tariffs-dont-push-prices-higher" rel="noreferrer noopener">and the previous reading</a>.
The monthly gain was 0.2%, rebounding from a prior decline of 0.1%, yet <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/cpi" rel="noreferrer noopener">falling short of a 0.3% forecast</a>.
The core CPI rose to 2.8% on an annual basis, unchanged from both the previous and expected 2.8%.
Month over month, it increased 0.2%, inching higher from the 0.1% uptick in March but below expectations of 0.3%.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44772840/analysts-warn-of-choppy-tech-outlook-despite-inflation-relief" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inflation Might Be Easing But Tech Outlook Still Choppy, Analysts Warn</a>
Shelter remained a major contributor to inflation, rising 0.3% in April and accounting for over half of the monthly increase in the overall Consumer Price Index. Meanwhile, several categories posted price declines, including airline fares, used cars and trucks, communication services, and apparel.
JP Morgan writes, &#8220;Despite an overall cooler-than-expected report, the April CPI likely shows modest tariff pass-through with several hardlines retailers taking price ahead of costs.&#8221;
On a quarterly basis, the most significant price drops compared to the fourth quarter were seen in TVs, sporting goods, auto parts (which moved from rising to falling prices), and motor oil/coolant/fluids (where prices are still rising but at a slower rate).
Meanwhile, prices went up or dropped less sharply in categories like building products, which shifted to rising prices, toys/games/hobbies/playground equipment, helped by price increases noted by companies like Hasbro Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HAS#NASDAQ">HAS</a>) and Mattel Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAT#NASDAQ">MAT</a>), pet food (smaller price declines), and home furnishings (prices increased).
Inflation for food at home dropped by 0.4 percentage points from last month, now sitting just above 2% year-over-year.
Grocery prices rose by about 0.4 percentage points during the recent retail quarter, and analyst Christopher Horvers expects more price increases in the second quarter.
Pet food prices increased slightly, rising 0.3 percentage points from the previous month, though they&#8217;re still down 0.6% compared to last year.
Looking at two-year trends, food-at-home inflation dipped about 0.2 percentage points, while pet food prices fell by roughly 0.8 percentage points.
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Photo via Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Macro Economic Events

Economics

CPI Undershoots But Core Inflation Stays Stubborn: JP Morgan

WIIM

AGAE

CLEU

COOK

DASH

DKNG

DOOO

EWCZ

FNKO

GNTX

GOLF

GSX Techedu Inc. American Depositary Shares

GOTU

GRMN

HELE

HOFT

IRBT

JAKK

JZXN

LCUT

LIVE

MBUU

MODG

NRDY

POOL

PRPL

PTON

SABR

Market Index Target Term Securities Linked To The Dow Jones Industrial Average

SERV

SHCO

SONO

STKS

SWIM

TRNR

XPOF

YETI

Shares of companies within the broader consumer discretionary sector are trading higher after the US and China agreed to a temporary reduction in most tariffs on each other's goods. This could alleviate supply chain uncertainty in the sector.

Press Releases

Gerard Johnstone to Direct Live-Action "Monster High" Movie from Mattel Studios, Universal Pictures and Weed Road

Mattel and OpenAI Announce Strategic Collaboration

Mattel Celebrates "Girl Power" With Collectibles From Monster High® and Hot Wheels® Mario Kart, Set to Debut at San Diego Comic-Con

Hot Wheels Unveils F1® THE MOVIE Die-cast Car, Bringing the Big Screen to 1:64 Scale

Mattel Creations Pays Homage to Universal Pictures "Cinematic Classics" With Collectibles From Hot Wheels® to Be Showcased at San Diego Comic-Con 2025

Mattel Announces Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results and Conference Call Date

Mattel Creations Puts John Cena, Deadpool, Jurassic World™, and Masters of the Universe® in the Spotlight for San Diego Comic-Con 2025

AirConsole and Audi Drive a New Era of In-Car Gaming

Acclaimed Filmmaker Jon M. Chu to Direct "Hot Wheels" Live-Action Motion Picture from Mattel, Warner Bros. and Bad Robot; Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier to Write Script

Barbie® Introduces First-Ever Barbie Doll with Type 1 Diabetes to Expand Representation and Inspire More Children

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