e.l.f. Beauty Stock Is Off to a Hot Start to 2026. Will It Continue?

Core Viewpoint - e.l.f. Beauty has shown resilience in its stock performance despite previous challenges, with a significant recovery in early 2026, indicating potential for future growth [1][2]. Financial Performance - e.l.f. reported a 14% increase in sales, reaching $343.9 million for the quarter ending September 30, 2025, despite facing tariff-related challenges [4]. - The company's gross margin decreased by 165 basis points to 69%, while selling, general, and administrative expenses rose by 24%, leading to an 84% decline in overall profit to $3 billion compared to $19 billion in the prior year [4]. - Adjusted earnings showed a less severe decline of under 10%, suggesting that the core business remains relatively stable [4]. Market Sentiment - Investors are reassessing e.l.f.'s valuation, with the stock up 17% at the start of 2026, outperforming the S&P 500, which rose less than 2% [1][2]. - The stock is currently trading at 27 times its estimated future earnings, which may appear high but could improve with favorable economic conditions [6]. - The demand for e.l.f.'s low-priced items has remained strong, indicating resilience against economic uncertainties and tariffs [6]. Future Outlook - If tariffs are deemed illegal and removed, e.l.f. could significantly benefit, but even without such developments, the brand's popularity among younger consumers positions it well for long-term growth [5].