Lowe's tops earnings estimates

Lowe's Business Strategy & Performance - Lowe's estimates approximately $50 billion in deferred home projects due to customer uncertainty in the macro environment [2] - Lowe's is investing in attracting professional (Pro) customers, similar to Home Depot [2] - Lowe's acquired Foundation Building Materials for $8.8 billion, financed with debt [2] - Lowe's acquired Artisan Design Group for $1.3 billion earlier this year [2] - Pros account for 20-25% of Lowe's sales, compared to 55% for Home Depot [2] - Lowe's offers loyalty programs for pros, including credit, bulk discounts, special parking, and customer service [2] - Lowe's earnings beat expectations, with revenue and comparable sales in line, and increased full-year guidance [2] - Lowe's shares have outperformed Home Depot in the last 3 and 6 months [3] Market Factors & Outlook - Lowe's CEO believes recent tax legislation and sub-6% mortgage rates will stimulate deferred projects [2] - Retailers are operating in a challenging macroeconomic environment, including tariffs [5]