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CO2 Energy Transition Corp. - Right

Peloton Interactive, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PTON#NASDAQ">PTON</a>) shares are trading lower on Thursday, after the company reported earnings per share of 12 cents loss in the third quarter, missing the analyst <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/g45280921/peloton-interactive-inc-reports-third-quarter-fiscal-2025-financial-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus estimate of 7 cents loss.</a>
Quarterly <a target="_blank" href="https://investor.onepeloton.com/static-files/5691ff95-427d-4532-930d-6c5876ccaf5f" rel="noreferrer noopener">sales </a>of $624 million (down 13% year-over-year), beating the Street view of $621.32 million.
Connected Fitness Products Revenue decreased 27% year-over-year, driven by lower sales and deliveries across all Connected Fitness Product categories.
Subscription Revenue decreased $19.3 million, or 4% year-over-year.
Also Read:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/price-target/25/05/45205131/peloton-profit-push-faces-subscriber-setbacks-and-tariff-troubles" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Peloton Faces Subscriber Setbacks, Tariff Troubles Despite Profit Push</a>
Total Gross Profit was $318.1 million in the third quarter, an increase of 3% year over year. Total Gross Margin was 51.0%, an increase of 780 bps year-over-year, driven by a revenue mix shift towards the Subscription segment and favorable Connected Fitness Products Gross Margin.
Adjusted EBITDA was $89.4 million in the quarter, which was an $83.6 million improvement year-over-year.
The firm ended the quarter with $914.3 million in unrestricted cash and equivalents. Net Debt reduced $311.6 million or 35% year-over-year.
The company highlighted that Peloton and Precor-branded equipment are currently subject to a 25% tariff on their aluminum content. Precor and Apparel products sourced from China are subject to additional tariffs.
Outlook: Peloton Interactive slightly narrowed its FY2025 sales guidance to a range of $2.46 billion to $2.47 billion.
This compares to its prior outlook of $2.43 billion to $2.48 billion and consensus estimate of $2.46 billion.
PTON Price Action: Peloton Interactive shares are trading lower by 5.52% to $6.60 at publication on Thursday.
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PTON

What's Going On With Peloton Stock Today?

RBC Capital analyst James McGarragle maintains Stella-Jones (TSX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SJ#TSX">SJ</a>) with a Sector Perform and raises the price target from C$75 to C$76.

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

TSX:SJ

RBC Capital Maintains Sector Perform on Stella-Jones, Raises Price Target to C$76

RBC Capital analyst Maurice Choy maintains Fortis (TSX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTS#TSX">FTS</a>) with a Sector Perform and raises the price target from C$69 to C$72.

TSX:FTS

RBC Capital Maintains Sector Perform on Fortis, Raises Price Target to C$72

UBS analyst Timothy Chiodo maintains AvidXchange Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVDX#NASDAQ">AVDX</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $8 to $10.

AVDX

UBS Maintains Neutral on AvidXchange Holdings, Raises Price Target to $10

WIIM

ECOR

electroCore shares are trading lower after the company reported worse-than-expected Q1 financial results.

RBC Capital analyst James McGarragle maintains Chorus Aviation (TSX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CHR#TSX">CHR</a>) with a Outperform and raises the price target from C$25 to C$27.

TSX:CHR

RBC Capital Maintains Outperform on Chorus Aviation, Raises Price Target to C$27

UBS analyst Joseph Spak maintains Adient (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADNT#NYSE">ADNT</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $13 to $15.

ADNT

UBS Maintains Neutral on Adient, Raises Price Target to $15

UBS analyst Joseph Spak maintains BorgWarner (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BWA#NYSE">BWA</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $31 to $35.

UBS Maintains Neutral on BorgWarner, Raises Price Target to $35

Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Atlantic, is speaking out about what he calls the &#8220;erratic&#8221; and &#8220;unpredictable&#8221; actions of President Donald Trump, warning that these policies may lead to the U.S. being sidelined in future global power dynamics.&nbsp;
Branson made the remarks during a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/apr/23/richard-branson-accuses-trump-of-doing-so-much-damage-to-the-world">press event</a> on April 23, ahead of Virgin Atlantic's inaugural flight from London to Riyadh, where he raised concerns about the long-term effects of Trump's leadership on international business and global alliances.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump's Policies Could Isolate The U.S.</h2>
Branson has long been critical of Trump's global approach, but his recent comments during the event highlighted a growing fear that America&#8217;s leadership on the world stage could slip.
&#8220;I honestly think this is a fairly small elite around Trump. I don't think he is carrying the vast majority of Americans in what he is doing,&#8221; Branson said.&nbsp;
His concerns centered around how Trump&#8217;s policies were &#8220;doing so much damage&#8221; to relationships between countries, particularly regarding the situation in Ukraine, which he considers one of the most troubling aspects of the U.S. administration&#8217;s foreign policy.
Branson suggested that the U.S.&#8217;s unpredictable political environment was causing uncertainty for businesses and alienating international partners, with the potential for the U.S. to be excluded from future global alliances.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Toll Of Trump's Trade Policies</h2>
Branson's discontent with the administration also extended to trade policies. The Trump administration&#8217;s aggressive tariffs, including a 145% tariff on Chinese imports, have created ripple effects across the global supply chain, driving up costs for businesses.&nbsp;
According to an article on Business Insider, small businesses dependent on Chinese goods are at risk of bankruptcy due to these tariffs, which have significantly disrupted their operations.
Companies such as <a href="https://investors.pepsico.com/docs/default-source/investors/q1-2025/q1-2025-earnings-release_qrwd2bctzikuphl4.pdf">PepsiCo</a> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PEP#NYSE">PEP</a>) and<a href="https://us.pg.com/newsroom/news-releases/PG-Announces-Fiscal-Year-2025-Third-Quarter-Results/"> Procter &amp; Gamble</a> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PG#NYSE">PG</a>) have adjusted their earnings forecasts, citing increased production costs from the tariffs.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Shifting Global Alliances</h2>
Branson's warning about the U.S. facing exclusion from global alliances is not an isolated concern.&nbsp;
The U.S.&#8217;s confrontational approach to international relations has led countries such as China, Canada and the European Union to explore new alliances outside of the U.S. influence.&nbsp;
Tadashi Yanai, the CEO of Fast Retailing, echoed similar concerns, telling <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-04-10/trump-tariffs-will-lead-to-us-isolation-fast-retailing-ceo-says">Bloomberg </a>that the U.S. may find itself increasingly isolated from global economic progress if current policies continue.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Virgin Atlantic's Expanding Global Reach</h2>
Despite geopolitical challenges, Virgin Atlantic is pressing forward with its expansion. The airline's launch of direct flights to Riyadh reflects Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify its economy and attract more international business.&nbsp;
Branson defended Virgin's decision to expand into the Saudi market, saying that while the kingdom still faces significant human rights challenges, it has made strides in recent years, <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/travel/destinations/middle-east-travel/saudi-arabia/virgin-atlantic-heathrow-riyadh-k2spb906g">The Times of London</a> reported.
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Personal Finance

'A Fairly Small Elite Around Trump' Is Driving Chaos, Says Richard Branson — Warns U.S. Risks Being 'Excluded' From Global Power Shift

Dave Ramsey's advice has helped millions of people get out of debt and improve their finances. Some of those people join up in the Dave Ramsey subreddit and discuss how the financial guru has impacted their lives.
A recent post from a 28-year-old shares how they paid off debt with a financial windfall and built up their bank accounts. The individual is also contributing to their investments and owns a debt-free home. Now, the Redditor is tackling credit cards and will <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/DaveRamsey/comments/1ke6r0s/feeling_free_without_credit_cardsand_not_looking/">get rid of their cards</a>.&nbsp;
"I'm tired of managing payment every month," the Redditor said while touting debit cards.&nbsp;
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The Redditor has heard about how credit cards can build credit and give you rewards, but this decision is about peace and reducing stress.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">You Don't Need A Credit Card</h2>
Credit cards offer many advantages, but they aren't required to achieve long-term financial goals or borrow money from financial institutions. The Redditor stated that lenders turn to proof of income when deciding how much to lend, with some focus on credit.
One commenter explained that he hasn't had a credit card in over 10 years. He mentioned that his credit union caught two scams at gas pumps and was able to reimburse him. That story runs contrary to the narrative that credit cards are better to have than debit cards if someone racks up fraudulent activity on your card.
The commenter also mentioned that his wife kept one of her credit cards which has come in handy for car rentals. Other than that small detail, the commenter's life has continued like normal without a credit card.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Closing And Paying Off One Credit Card At A Time</h2>
Another commenter stated that they are closing and paying off one credit card at a time. It's good to start in baby steps if you want to close all of your credit cards. Ramsey also advocates for baby steps when approaching big financial goals and getting back on the right track.
"That's good! Gotta do what works for you!" the original poster replied to the post. Then, the commenter replied by saying that small wins help. Closing credit cards can simplify your finances. It can help people who have had issues with credit card debt in the past and want to establish guardrails that keep them on track.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Closing Credit Cards Can Prevent Debt</h2>
Credit cards allow you to spend tomorrow's money today. Even people who keep up with their bills may end up spending more money than anticipated if they use credit.&nbsp;
For instance, if you have $500 in your checking account, you cannot spend more than $500 on a debit card. However, credit cards have much higher limits that can turn excessive spending into a habit.&nbsp;
People who are financially strong may still overspend on their credit cards just because they can. While not everyone wants to use debit cards for their payments, it can ensure you invest a higher percentage of every paycheck. Switching from credit cards to debit cards may also make you more intentional about every purchase.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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A Dave Ramsey Fan Explains How They Feel Free After Cutting Every Credit Card: 'I'm Tired Of Managing Payments Every Month'

"Shark Tank" star Kevin O&#8217;Leary isn&#8217;t sounding the alarms just yet. In an April 23 <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/kevinolearytv_weve-been-talking-about-recession-now-for-activity-7320501285084884994-k4eS">LinkedIn post</a>, O&#8217;Leary addressed concerns about a looming recession, calling them overblown. &#8220;Markets correct 20% all the time,&#8221; he said, framing current volatility as business as usual rather than a red flag.&nbsp;
O&#8217;Leary stressed that despite four years of recession predictions, the economy remains stable — and he views the current downturn as a potential &#8220;buying opportunity&#8221; for smart investors.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">O&#8217;Leary Says Recession Fears Are Overstated</h2>
In the post, O&#8217;Leary challenged ongoing forecasts suggesting a 32% to 55% probability of a U.S. recession.&nbsp;
He stated, &#8220;We&#8217;ve been talking about recession now for four years in a row. Forecasters of recession have been wrong for four years straight.&#8221; According to O&#8217;Leary, the U.S. economy continues to perform solidly despite geopolitical uncertainty and fluctuating projections.
Much of the recent market anxiety, he argued, stems from tariff battles, particularly with China. He believes agreements with countries like the UK, Canada, and Mexico could reach a resolution soon, potentially easing pressures.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trade Tensions Stir Up New Risks</h2>
O'Leary&#8217;s focus on trade echoes broader concerns across industries. Flexport CEO Ryan Petersen warned in an April 17<a href="https://x.com/typesfast/status/1912890256216695002?s=46&amp;t=Zwy9eX0Ffr9Jz93VyJtadg"> X post</a>, &#8220;Thousands and then millions of American small businesses, including many iconic brands, will go bankrupt this year if the tariff policies on China don&#8217;t change.&#8221;&nbsp;
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Technology firms are also feeling the heat. Companies like Alphabet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>, GOOGL)) <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SySgINoaI9A">posted better-than-expected Q1 earnings</a> amid tariff fears, signaling cautious optimism in the sector.&nbsp;
For now, the biggest hurdle remains finalizing an agreement with China over intellectual property rights, market access and World Trade Organization policies.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">S&amp;P 500 Drops Could Signal Deals</h2>
Rather than panicking over recent dips, O&#8217;Leary sees an opportunity.<a href="https://x.com/kevinolearytv/status/1908656664167014544"> On X</a>, he shared that historical data shows the S&amp;P 500 often rebounds after corrections, describing it as &#8220;nothing new for the S&amp;P 500&#8221; and &#8220;a buying opportunity.&#8221;
Current valuations may support his outlook. According to <a href="https://ycharts.com/indicators/sp_500_pe_ratio_forward_estimate">YCharts</a>, the forward price-to-earnings ratio for the S&amp;P 500 has slipped from 20.48 a year ago to 18.05 in April, suggesting a market pullback could offer discounted entry points for long-term investors.
O&#8217;Leary emphasized that the S&amp;P 500&#8217;s tradition of bouncing back, with long-term annual returns between 8% and 10%, is likely to continue even amid trade headwinds.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Institutions Hedge Their Bets</h2>
Despite O&#8217;Leary&#8217;s optimism, some major financial institutions remain cautious. JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) has <a href="https://www.jpmorgan.com/insights/global-research/economy/recession-probability">lifted </a>its U.S. recession probability to 60% in 2025, citing sweeping tariffs by the Trump administration.
Meanwhile, the <a href="https://www.conference-board.org/research/us-forecast?">Conference Board</a> maintained that while trade tensions weigh on growth, the U.S. could avoid a full-blown recession due to strong underlying fundamentals.
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GOOG

Kevin O'Leary Isn't Worried About A Crash — 'Markets Correct 20% All The Time,' And That's A 'Buying Opportunity' For Smart Investors

RBC Capital analyst Maurice Choy maintains Canadian Utilities (TSX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CU#TSX">CU</a>) with a Sector Perform and raises the price target from C$39 to C$41.

TSX:CU

RBC Capital Maintains Sector Perform on Canadian Utilities, Raises Price Target to C$41

<ul>
<li>U.S. spirit exports hit a record high in 2024, topping $2.4 billion</li>
<li>But experts worry that President Donald Trump's new tariffs could curtail that growth, as the largest markets for these exports are imposing retaliatory tariffs</li>
<li>American whiskey, the largest spirit export, faces particular risk</li>
</ul>
U.S. spirits exports hit a record high of $2.4 billion in 2024, according to a <a href="https://www.distilledspirits.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/American-Export-Report-Final.pdf">report</a> released Thursday by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. That's up 10% from 2023.
A <a href="https://www.distilledspirits.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/American-Export-Report-Final.pdf">statement</a> from DISCUS attributed the growth to the sector "having a fair and reciprocal playing field with 51 established markets that have provided tariff-free access for U.S. spirits."
The increase was driven primarily by exports to the European Union, the largest export market for U.S. spirits, which went up by 39%. DISCUS CEO Chris Swonger said in a <a href="https://www.distilledspirits.org/news/u-s-spirits-exports-hit-record-2-4-billion-in-2024/">statement</a> that&nbsp; "U.S. spirits exports hit a new high in 2024, recapturing lost market share since the UK and EU lifted retaliatory tariffs that were applied between 2018-2021 in connection with two trade disputes."&nbsp;
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But industry insiders like Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers' Association, warn that President Donald Trump's retaliatory tariffs could see those gains reverse. In a statement on <a href="https://x.com/KyDistillers/status/1896995343000293586/photo/1">X, </a>he wrote, "Retaliatory measures… harm these markets and jeopardize growth for years to come."
"Unfortunately, ongoing trade disputes unrelated to our sector have caused uncertainty, keeping many U.S. distillers on the sidelines and curtailing sales growth," Swonger said in a statement.
CNN reports that American whiskey has long been at the center of these trade disputes.
DISCUS says that American whiskey accounted for 54% of spirit exports in 2024, and brought in $1.3 billion last year alone. However, that number was already down by 5.4% compared to 2023.
According to the DISCUS report, when retaliatory tariffs on American spirits were first enacted by the EU and UK in 2018, whiskey exports saw an 18% drop in those markets, substantially more than any other type of spirit. Since the tariffs were suspended in 2022, American whiskey exports in those areas have surged by 20%.
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DISCUS worries that history might be on the verge of repeating itself. Another sharp decline in whiskey exports could have a domino effect on the rest of the industry.
In response to Trump's tariffs, Canada, the second-largest market for U.S. spirit exports, began imposing a 25% rate on all U.S. spirits, and many stores have removed them from shelves entirely. Additionally, China has hit U.S. spirit imports with a 160% tariff, and Turkey has added a 70% levy.
"We are thankful for President Trump's early success in securing India's reduction of its tariff on Bourbon from 150% to 100%," said Swonger. "It's our hope that the administration builds on this positive momentum by securing additional tariff reductions in India and reducing trade barriers in other countries."
The DISCUS report concludes that long-term growth for the industry will be dependent on ensuring a permanent return to zero-for-zero spirits tariffs and securing new market-opening agreements with countries where high spirits tariffs are still applied.
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U.S. Spirit Exports Hit A Record High In 2024, But Tariffs Threaten To Curtail Growth

In the first 100 days of President Donald Trump&#8216;s second term, the Social Security Administration has rolled out a series of major reforms aimed at improving service delivery and restoring financial accountability. These efforts have led to some big wins, but they have also stirred up concerns among lawmakers, beneficiaries, and SSA employees alike.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Major Milestone: Social Security Fairness Act Implementation</h2>
One of the biggest changes so far is the rollout of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44174682/social-security-to-fast-track-retroactive-payments-for-retirees-impacted-by-wep-and-gpo-cuts">Social Security Fairness Act</a>, signed into law by then-President Joe Biden on Jan. 5. The new law eliminates the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset — two long-criticized rules that had reduced benefits for many public sector retirees.
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According to the <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/news/press/releases/2025/#2025-04-29">SSA</a>, more than $14.8 billion in retroactive payments has already been disbursed to over 2.2 million people affected by the change.
That said, the rollout hasn't been without hiccups. Early on, SSA officials warned that due to staffing shortages and the complexity of recalculating benefits, some recipients might not see their adjusted payments for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44174682/social-security-to-fast-track-retroactive-payments-for-retirees-impacted-by-wep-and-gpo-cuts">over a year</a>. Without additional funding tied to the legislation, the agency said it was stretching its existing resources thin.
Now, the SSA says delays should only impact &#8220;complex cases that cannot be processed by automation.&#8221;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Efficiency Initiatives and Workforce Restructuring</h2>
In line with directives from the Department of Government Efficiency, the SSA says it has identified over $1 billion in cost savings for fiscal 2025 — primarily through cuts to payroll, IT spending, and travel.
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The agency has also launched a major <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44153127/will-social-securitys-restructuring-impact-your-monthly-benefits-heres-what-to-know">internal shake-up</a>. That includes consolidating responsibilities across offices, ending telework for many staff, and reassigning about 2,000 employees to direct service roles. More than 3,000 workers accepted buyouts or opted to retire early, and another 350 deferred resignations have gone through.
While SSA leadership says these changes are meant to streamline operations and improve customer service, some employees have expressed concerns about increased workloads and reduced morale.
Jessica LaPointe, a 16-year SSA employee and local chapter president of the American Federation of Government Employees union, told <a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/04/26/nx-s1-5368480/social-security-workforce-cuts">NPR</a> that the current environment in field offices is "burned out … and overwhelmed." She said that deep staffing cuts have created chaos not just within individual offices but across entire regions.&nbsp;
AFGE spokesperson Rich Couture told NPR that more than 2,500 employees have taken the agency's recent buyout offer, with around 2,000 of those departures coming from field offices. Some offices have lost half or more of their staff, significantly increasing wait times and reducing capacity.&nbsp;
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Technological Advancements and Fraud Prevention</h2>
On the tech side, the SSA is updating its field office phone systems, rolling out a new telecommunications platform that's already in place for the agency's national toll-free phone number. The upgrade promises better call routing and includes AI-powered self-service tools.
To combat fraud, the SSA has also introduced new tools to monitor for suspicious activity in phone-based claims. If something doesn't look right, individuals may be required to verify their identity in person. The agency says these tools will help keep services secure while ensuring access remains equitable.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Public Response and Ongoing Challenges</h2>
The sweeping changes have drawn mixed reactions. Some beneficiaries applaud the SSA's push to modernize and make services more efficient. Others say the transition has made it harder to get help when they need it — especially at local offices.
As the agency moves forward, it faces the challenge of meeting growing demand with fewer staff and tighter budgets. Maintaining open communication and prioritizing accessibility will be key to keeping public trust — and keeping <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/45110258/the-2026-social-security-cola-could-be-the-biggest-in-years-but-inflation-could-still-outpace-your-benefits">Social Security</a> running smoothly.
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Image: Shutterstock

Social Security Highlights First 100 Days Of Trump Administration: Key Reforms And Billions In Retroactive Payments

UBS analyst Joshua Spector maintains CF Industries Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CF#NYSE">CF</a>) with a Neutral and raises the price target from $79 to $82.

UBS Maintains Neutral on CF Industries Holdings, Raises Price Target to $82

RBC Capital analyst Maurice Choy maintains Atco (TSX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACO#TSX">ACO</a>) with a Sector Perform and raises the price target from C$51 to C$53.

TSX:ACO

TSX:ACO/X

RBC Capital Maintains Sector Perform on Atco, Raises Price Target to C$53

While Steven Madden Ltd (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHOO#NASDAQ">SHOO</a>) reported a "significant" earnings beat on Wednesday, Telsey Advisory Group reported that the company withdrew its full-year guidance due to tariff-related uncertainty.
The Steven Madden Analyst: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/5888c53977f9dd0001877a22/dana-telsey">Analyst Dana Telsey</a> maintained a Market Perform rating and price of $24.
The Steven Madden Thesis: The company completed the acquisition of Kurt Geiger, which nicely complements the existing business as "it skews higher end and more towards handbags," Telsey said in the note.
Check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">other analyst stock ratings</a>.
Management withdrew its 2025 guidance, due to uncertainty associated with tariffs, which was not surprising given the company's exposure to China for sourcing, she added.
The analyst highlighted that Steven Madden plans to follow a three-pronged tariff mitigation strategy:
<ul>
<li>Moving production out of China</li>
<li>Negotiating with suppliers for price concessions</li>
<li>Taking price on products</li>
</ul>
Management indicated that these changes would position the company for long-term growth, she stated.
"Overall, we believe SHOO has been bringing trend-right products to market quickly, growing its apparel and accessories business, and expanding internationally," Dana further wrote.
SHOO Price Action: Shares of Steven Madden had risen by 2% to $23.90 at the time of publication Thursday.
Read More: 
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Earnings Beats

Reiteration

Trading Ideas

SHOO

Steven Madden's 3-Pronged Tariff Mitigation Plan Stands Out To Analyst

Consumer health company&nbsp;Kenvue Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KVUE#NYSE">KVUE</a>) on Thursday reported first-quarter 2025 sales of $3.74 billion, beating the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus of $3.68 billion</a>.
<ul>
<li>Sales decreased 3.9% year over year, reflecting a 1.2% organic sales decline and a 2.7% foreign currency headwind.</li>
<li>The organic sales decline was driven by 0.3% unfavorable value realization, reflecting planned strategic price investments, and a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/b45280440/kenvue-reports-first-quarter-2025-results" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">0.9% volume decline</a>.</li>
</ul>
Some of Kenvue's most iconic brands include Aveeno, BAND-AID Brand, Johnson&#8217;s, Listerine, Neutrogena, and Tylenol.
Gross profit margin was 58.0% vs. 57.6% a year ago. Adjusted gross profit margin&nbsp;contracted 20 basis points vs. the prior year period to 60%.
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Operating income margin was 14.9% vs. 14.1%. Adjusted operating income margin&nbsp;was 19.8% vs. 22.0% in the prior year period.
The self-care segment recorded $1.67 billion in net sales, almost flat year over year. The skin health and beauty segment recorded a 7% drop in first-quarter net sales to $977 million. Essential Health segment sales decreased around 4% to&nbsp;$1.09 billion.
&#8220;In Q1, our teams executed our plans while continuing to navigate an evolving macro and consumer environment,&#8221; said Thibaut Mongon, CEO. &#8220;We are committed and focused on activating our brands while staying agile and flexible to accelerate sustainable, profitable growth.&#8221;
Guidance:&nbsp;Kenvue updated its fiscal 2025 outlook to reflect current foreign exchange rates and the estimated impact of higher costs due to tariffs. The company expects:
<ul>
<li>Net sales increase of +1% to +3% (-1% to +1% prior) year-over-year, with organic sales growth of +2% to +4 (unchanged) and a ~1% headwind from foreign currency translation (earlier expected around 3%).</li>
<li>Adjusted operating income margin is expected to decline year over year, reflecting the estimated impact of tariffs. Earlier, the company expected improvement year over year.</li>
<li>Adjusted diluted earnings per share are expected to be about flat year over year, including a low-single-digit negative impact from foreign currency. In February, Kenvue expected flat to +2% year-over-year Adjusted diluted earnings per share growth, including a mid-single-digit unfavorable <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/02/b43523300/kenvue-reports-full-year-and-fourth-quarter-2024-results" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact from foreign currency</a>.</li>
</ul>
The company is working to reduce tariffs&#8217; financial impact through several mitigation actions. 
On Thursday, Kenvue appointed Amit Banati as the company&#8217;s CFO, effective May 12, 2025. Mr. Banati will <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/b45280347/kenvue-announces-chief-financial-officer-transition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">succeed Paul Ruh</a>.
In April, Kenvue announced a five-year collaboration with Microsoft to establish a strong foundation for transforming digital operations through advanced <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/04/b44834009/kenvue-announces-5-year-collaboration-with-microsoft-to-transform-digital-operations" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies</a>.
These technologies include machine-enabled collaboration, predictive analytics, smart agents, digital twins, and generative AI. By advancing predictive and AI-assisted capabilities, Kenvue aims to deliver enhanced consumer experiences, increased productivity, and sustained growth.
Over the next five years, Kenvue will scale its use of Microsoft Azure to capitalize on its wide range of services, including data analytics and AI.
Price Action:&nbsp;KVUE stock is up 6.30% at $24.57 at the last check on Thursday.
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Photo by Colleen Michaels via Shutterstock

Health Care

KVUE

Neutrogena-Maker Kenvue Beats Profit Forecast, Ups Sales Outlook

GPUS

Hyperscale Data shares are trading higher. The stock has been volatile after the company recently issued Q1 and FY25 sales guidance.

RBC Capital analyst Ryland Conrad maintains Premium Brands Hldgs (TSX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PBH#TSX">PBH</a>) with a Sector Perform and raises the price target from C$97 to C$99.

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