Analysts Laud L’Oréal-Kering Beauty Deal

Core Insights - The sale of Kering Beauty to L'Oréal for 4 billion euros marks a significant strategic shift for Kering and strengthens L'Oréal's position in the beauty and wellness sector [1][3] Group 1: Transaction Details - The agreement includes the acquisition of the House of Creed, which accounts for approximately 93% of Kering Beauty's sales [6] - L'Oréal will gain a 50-year exclusive license for Gucci's fragrance and beauty products, starting after Kering's current license with Coty Inc. expires in 2028 [2] - The partnership also encompasses a 50-year exclusive license for Bottega Veneta and Balenciaga, effective upon transaction closure, expected in the first half of 2026 [3] Group 2: Market Reaction - Following the announcement, L'Oréal's stock rose by 0.6% to 392.90 euros, while Kering's stock increased by 3.6% to 320.55 euros [4] - Analysts expressed surprise at Kering's shift away from its in-house beauty strategy, which had previously aimed to replicate the success of Kering eyewear [4] Group 3: Financial Implications - Citi estimates that the transaction will lead to a high single-digit percentage reduction in Kering's FY26E EBIT and a mid-single-digit percentage decrease in EPS [5] - Kering's financial leverage is projected to improve to about 1.5 times net debt to EBITDA, down from approximately 2.5 times, which is viewed positively given past concerns over elevated financial leverage [5]