NIKE(NKE) ZACKS·2025-05-27 15:55Core Viewpoint - NIKE Inc. is experiencing a significant decline in stock performance, with shares dropping below key moving averages, indicating bearish sentiment and concerns over growth prospects [1][5][9]. Stock Performance - On May 23, 2025, NIKE's stock closed at 60.89, marking a short-term bearish trend [1][3]. - The stock has lost 24.4% over the past three months, underperforming the Zacks Shoes and Retail Apparel industry's decline of 20.2% and the broader Zacks Consumer Discretionary sector's decline of 0.9% [5][6]. - Currently, NIKE's stock trades 38.8% below its 52-week high of 52.28 [8]. Growth Concerns - The decline in stock price is attributed to concerns regarding NIKE's growth prospects, including weak performance in the lifestyle segment and a drop in digital sales, alongside lower retail traffic in Greater China [9][11]. - Management has indicated potential mid-teen revenue declines due to shipment timing disruptions, adverse foreign exchange rates, and new tariffs on imports [11][12]. Margin and Profitability - NIKE anticipates a gross margin contraction of 400-500 basis points, influenced by prior restructuring charges and ongoing margin pressures [12]. - SG&A expenses are expected to grow in the low to mid-single digits, further squeezing profitability [12]. Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NIKE's fiscal 2025 EPS remains unchanged, while the estimate for fiscal 2026 EPS has decreased by a penny [13]. - For fiscal 2025, revenue and EPS are projected to decline by 10.7% and 45.6%, respectively, with fiscal 2026 estimates indicating further declines of 1.4% and 9.8% [15]. Strategic Initiatives - NIKE is focusing on its "Win Now" strategy, which includes tighter inventory control, accelerated innovation, and strengthened wholesale partnerships to stabilize performance [16][17]. - The company is enhancing its sports-driven identity through faster product development and a shift towards full-price, digitally led sales [17]. Valuation Perspective - NIKE's current forward P/E ratio of 30.86X is significantly higher than the industry average of 24.21X and the S&P 500's average of 21.36X, raising questions about the justification of its premium valuation [18][20]. - Competitors like adidas, Caleres, and Carter's have lower forward P/E ratios, indicating a stretched valuation for NIKE [20]. Long-Term Outlook - Despite near-term challenges, NIKE's long-term potential is supported by its strong brand equity, innovation, and strategic direction aimed at reigniting growth [22]. - The company is well-positioned for long-term, profitable growth, but current market conditions and technical indicators suggest a cautious approach [23][24].