3 Companies Unlocking Higher Profits: KMB, DECK, WMT

Group 1: Deckers Outdoor - Deckers Outdoor reported a strong quarter, exceeding both earnings and revenue expectations, with EPS growing 90% year-over-year and sales increasing by 22% [2][3] - Continued brand momentum from UGG and Hoka shoes contributed to robust results, prompting an upward revision of the fiscal year outlook, with a Zacks Consensus EPS estimate suggesting 8% growth year-over-year [3] - The company experienced margin expansion, with gross margin increasing to 56.9% from 51.3% in the previous year [4] Group 2: Kimberly-Clark - Kimberly-Clark shares have performed well year-to-date, gaining over 15%, benefiting from its defensive nature in the consumer staples sector [6] - Cost management practices significantly aided profitability, with adjusted EPS reaching $1.96, a 20% increase year-over-year [7] - Margin expansion has positively impacted investor sentiment [7] Group 3: Walmart - Walmart posted a 22% growth in EPS on nearly 5% higher sales, with both figures exceeding consensus expectations [9] - The company improved its gross margin by 43 basis points and saw a boost in operating income, with eCommerce penetration providing additional growth [9][11] - Following the earnings report, Walmart increased its FY25 net sales and adjusted operating income guidance, with a Zacks Consensus EPS estimate suggesting a 10% climb year-over-year [12]