ZACKS·2026-01-12 18:45Group 1: Abercrombie and Fitch (ANF) Performance - Abercrombie and Fitch achieved record earnings-per-share in 2025, but shares are falling due to high expectations and profit-taking by investors [1] - Management's guidance for sales growth is in the middle of the previous range (at least 6%), which is seen as lukewarm by investors expecting stronger numbers [1][2] - The company incurred a $90 million tariff expense in 2025, which is expected to continue into 2026, putting pressure on margins [2] Group 2: Retail Market Dynamics - The retail market is experiencing a bifurcation, with high-end brands like ANF facing challenges while discount retailers are gaining strength [6][9] - Despite concerns, Abercrombie remains one of the strongest retail brands, with revenue expected to continue growing into 2027 according to Zacks Consensus Estimates [4] - The overall retail picture shows record-breaking global holiday sales of $1.29 trillion, but consumer confidence is weak, leading to a shift towards discount retailers [9] Group 3: Birkenstock Performance - Birkenstock shares initially dropped after earnings but rebounded as Q4 adjusted EPS of $0.14 beat estimates, and sales of $407.67 million exceeded expectations [8] - The company is expected to face modest headwinds to adjusted EBITDA margins due to planned ramp-up costs and initial under-absorption [8]