ZACKS·2025-11-28 21:41Market Overview - The market's uptick this week was expected due to seasonal optimism around Thanksgiving, leading to lighter trading volume and reduced volatility [1] - Increased consumer spending data in October suggests a record holiday shopping season ahead, particularly benefiting retail stocks [1] Retail Stocks Highlights - Macy's (M): Stock price at $22 with a Zacks Rank of 2 (BUY). The stock is at a 52-week high, driven by strong earnings beats, raised guidance, and strategic shifts towards online presence [3][4] - Macy's "Reimagine 125" initiative has modernized stores, resulting in the strongest comparable sales growth in three years. The stock is attractive for income-focused portfolios with a 3.25% annual dividend yield [5] - Amazon (AMZN): Stock price at $232 with a Zacks Rank of 2 (BUY). Expected to set a quarterly revenue record of $211.23 billion in Q4, Amazon's growth and diversification are significant, with a forward P/E multiple approaching the S&P 500 benchmark [6][7] - Crocs (CROX): Stock price around $85 with a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy). FY25 EPS estimates revised up to $12.13, indicating a positive trend. The stock's 7X forward earnings multiple suggests it is undervalued [8][9] - Lululemon (LULU): Currently trades at a more reasonable valuation after a 50% drop from its one-year peak, with a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold). Expected to post annual EPS of $12 or more in FY26 and FY27, supported by a loyal customer base [10] Retail Sector Outlook - Retail sales are projected to exceed $1 trillion for the first time during this holiday shopping season, positioning the retail sector as a hot spot for investors [12]