Core Insights - The Trump administration has granted a one-year hold on additional tariffs on footwear imports from China, providing temporary relief to the industry [1][4] - The new trade arrangement suspends heightened reciprocal tariffs on imports from China until November 10, 2026, with tariffs on shoe imports ranging from 20% to 27% [2][3] Industry Impact - The footwear industry views the new trade deal as a guarantee for most of 2026, allowing companies to plan with more certainty [4] - Industry leaders express optimism about the pause on tariff escalation, emphasizing the need for durable trade agreements for long-term stability [5] Company Strategies - Companies like Deer Stags acknowledge that while the reduction in tariffs to 20% is an improvement, it still exerts pressure on cash flow and margins [7] - Firms such as Steve Madden Ltd. have returned some production to China due to logistical and quality considerations, despite previous moves to diversify sourcing [8][9] - Ground Up International has strengthened its supply chain diversification over the past 18 months, viewing the tariff hold as an opportunity to further diversify [11] Future Considerations - The fashion industry anticipates that China will remain a viable sourcing option through early Fall 2026, but companies are advised to maintain flexibility in sourcing strategies [13][14] - The upcoming Supreme Court decision regarding Trump's tariffs could introduce further uncertainty, with potential implications for sourcing decisions and refund processes [15][16]

Low-volatility stocks may offer stability, but that often comes at the cost of slower growth and the upside potential of more dynamic companies. Choosing the wrong investments can cause you to fall behind, which is why we started StockStory - to separate the winners from the losers. That said, here are three low-volatility stocks to steer clear of and a few better alternatives. Crocs (CROX) Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.46 Founded in 2002, Crocs (NASDAQ:CROX) sells casual footwear and is known for its iconi ...

Core Insights - Crocs showcased its brand at the 8th China International Import Expo, aiming to enhance communication and co-creation with Chinese consumers through innovative design and an immersive experience [1][4] Group 1: Brand Experience and Product Offering - The Crocs exhibition emphasized creativity and individuality, featuring unique design elements and interactive experiences that allowed visitors to engage with the brand's history and new product lines [2] - The winter collection introduced by Crocs focuses on lightweight comfort and warmth, utilizing soft materials and winter-themed colors to cater to diverse lifestyle scenarios [2] - A limited edition "洞仔" shoe was launched specifically for the expo, along with exclusive Jibbitz™ accessories, highlighting the brand's playful and personalized approach [3] Group 2: Collaboration and Cultural Engagement - Crocs partnered with local creative forces, presenting three collaborative collections with brands like Pop Mart, Beast, and SMFK, showcasing localized creative expressions that resonate with Chinese youth culture [2] - The brand's mission is to liberate individual expression and foster emotional connections with consumers, integrating global innovation with local creativity since its deep market entry in China in 2016 [3][4] Group 3: Strategic Market Positioning - Crocs views China as its second-largest market, emphasizing the strategic importance of understanding consumer needs and trends to embed its "Come As You Are" philosophy into product design and brand activities [4] - The brand is committed to creating an open and extendable creative space for young consumers, allowing them to express their individuality while embracing local cultural innovation [4] - Future plans include continued collaboration with local brands and designers to drive product innovation and cultural integration, reinforcing the brand's long-term commitment to the Chinese market [4]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q3 2025, the company reported net revenue of $33 million, at the low end of guidance, reflecting strong customer response to new products but mixed performance from original icons [14] - Gross margin decreased to 43.2% from 44.4% in Q3 2024, primarily due to a higher mix of digital and international distributor sales and increased duties [14] - Q3 adjusted EBITDA loss was $15.7 million, slightly improved from a loss of $16.2 million a year ago [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - New product launches, including the Wool Cruiser and Waterproof Collection, performed well, contributing to positive momentum [5][14] - Core franchises like the Original Runner have been slower to rebuild, indicating a need for sustained execution across multiple product cycles [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates Q4 net revenue to range from $56 million to $61 million, reflecting flat to high single-digit growth compared to the previous year [17] - The impact of international distributor transitions and retail store closures is expected to decrease in Q4, contributing to improved sales [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on revitalizing the brand through comfort, style, and sustainability, aiming for growth and profitability [4] - A renewed wholesale strategy is set to launch in spring 2026, with plans to expand presence in approximately 150 specialty retail stores across the U.S. [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that macroeconomic factors are distracting consumers, impacting sales, but expressed optimism about product momentum and upcoming launches [21][25] - The company is taking steps to enhance liquidity and reduce costs, including potential capital raising [12][16] Other Important Information - The company ended Q3 with $24 million in cash and cash equivalents, and $12 million in outstanding borrowings [16] - Inventory was reported at $43 million, down 25% year-over-year, reflecting strong inventory management [16][30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Focus on third-quarter sales results and future growth - Management acknowledged that while new products are performing well, core franchises like the Runner have not yet rebounded, and macro distractions are affecting consumer behavior [20][23] Question: Comments on inventory and Black Friday strategy - Management indicated that inventory is lean and well-managed, with a competitive strategy planned for Black Friday and Cyber Monday to maintain market share [30][32]

Core Insights - Allbirds shares fell nearly 10% in after-market trading following a lowered yearly guidance after the latest earnings report [1] - The company reported a 23.3% decrease in net revenue for Q3 fiscal 2025, totaling $33.0 million compared to $43.0 million in the same period last year [1][2] - Allbirds experienced a net loss of $20.3 million in Q3, slightly improved from a loss of $21.2 million in Q3 2024 [1] Revenue and Earnings - The year-over-year revenue decrease is attributed to structural changes, including international distributor transitions and planned retail store closures [2] - Q3 earnings were in line with expectations, with the company anticipating net revenue between $33 million and $38 million, while analysts expected between $33 million and $35.5 million [2] - For the full fiscal year 2025, Allbirds expects net revenue between $161 million and $166 million, down from previous guidance of $165 million to $180 million [5] Future Outlook - Allbirds anticipates a revenue impact of approximately $23 million to $25 million due to the transition from a direct selling model to a distributor model in certain international markets and the closure of some U.S. stores [4] - The company plans to support its product engine with compelling marketing content to capture consumer interest and reignite growth during the holiday season [4] - Allbirds is focused on accelerating progress under its turnaround strategy while taking steps to reduce costs, enhance liquidity, and pursue value-creating opportunities [6]

Core Insights - Allbirds, Inc. reported third quarter results that were in line with expectations, with a focus on new product introductions and marketing strategies to drive growth [3][4] - The company updated its full year 2025 revenue outlook, adjusting the guidance range for net revenue and adjusted EBITDA loss [16][19] Financial Performance - Net revenue for Q3 2025 decreased by 23.3% to $33.0 million compared to $43.0 million in Q3 2024, primarily due to structural changes including international distributor transitions and planned retail store closures [4][10] - Gross profit for Q3 2025 was $14.2 million, down from $19.1 million in Q3 2024, with a gross margin decline of 120 basis points to 43.2% [5][9] - Selling, general, and administrative expenses (SG&A) were $21.7 million, or 65.7% of net revenue, compared to $31.0 million, or 72.0% of net revenue in Q3 2024, reflecting cost reductions [6][9] - Marketing expenses increased to $11.7 million, or 35.5% of net revenue, driven by higher digital advertising spend [7][9] - The net loss for Q3 2025 was $20.3 million, or $2.49 per share, compared to a net loss of $21.2 million in Q3 2024 [7][9] Year-to-Date Results - For the first nine months of 2025, net revenue decreased by 21.7% to $104.8 million compared to $133.9 million in the same period of 2024 [10][11] - Gross profit for the first nine months of 2025 was $44.8 million, with a gross margin decline to 42.7% [11][14] - SG&A expenses for the first nine months were $71.0 million, or 67.8% of net revenue, down from $104.2 million, or 77.8% of net revenue in the same period of 2024 [12][14] - The net loss for the first nine months of 2025 was $57.7 million, compared to $67.6 million in the same period of 2024 [13][14] Balance Sheet and Cash Flow - As of September 30, 2025, Allbirds had $23.7 million in cash and cash equivalents, with $12.3 million in outstanding borrowings under its $50.0 million revolving credit facility [15][33] - Inventory at the end of Q3 2025 was $43.1 million, a decrease of 25.0% compared to the previous year [9][15] Guidance and Future Outlook - The company provided updated financial guidance for 2025, projecting net revenue between $161 million and $166 million, and an adjusted EBITDA loss between $63 million and $57 million [19][16]

Core Insights - Wolverine has announced a multi-channel partnership with the hit drama "Landman," co-created by Taylor Sheridan, ahead of its second season premiere on November 16, 2025, positioning itself as the exclusive work boot partner for the show [1][2][3] Company Overview - Wolverine is recognized as America's leading work boot brand with a legacy of 143 years, emphasizing hard work and perseverance [2][3] - The company aims to honor the spirit of the American worker and is committed to crafting durable boots using high-quality materials [5] Partnership Details - The partnership with "Landman" is designed to highlight the real-life experiences of tradespeople, reflecting the complexities and challenges of life in the oil patch [2][3] - Wolverine's marketing campaign, titled "Out Do Every Day," will feature real individuals engaged in tough physical work, showcasing their dedication to their craft and families [3][4] Marketing Strategy - The campaign will include retail programs with national partners, e-commerce initiatives, social media content, and influencer activations, featuring products like the Rancher and the new Wolverine Infinity System [3][4] - Wolverine will have curated placements in "Landman" throughout the season, enhancing brand visibility and engagement with audiences [4] Community Engagement - Wolverine has contributed over $2 million through Project Bootstrap to support skilled trades, reinforcing its commitment to the workforce [5]

Core Insights - Canada Goose reported a 1.8% increase in total revenue to CAD 272.6 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2026, with direct-to-consumer (DTC) revenue growing by 21.8% to CAD 126.6 million, driven by a 10.2% increase in DTC comparable sales [3][9] - The company experienced an operating loss of CAD 17.6 million, compared to an operating income of CAD 1.6 million in the prior year, primarily due to increased selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses [3][9] - Net loss attributable to shareholders was CAD 15.2 million, or CAD 0.16 per share, compared to a net income of CAD 5.4 million, or CAD 0.06 per share, in the same quarter last year [9][20] Business Highlights - The launch of the Fall/Winter 2025 collection emphasized modern urban storytelling and bold designs, enhancing brand engagement through partnerships, including a collaboration with NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander [2][3] - The company relocated its Paris store to Champs-Élysées, enhancing the consumer experience with a new design and curated selections from its art collection [3] - Canada Goose opened one new store during the quarter, bringing the total permanent store count to 77 [3] Financial Performance - DTC revenue growth was attributed to improved execution, a stronger mix of in-season products, and consistent marketing efforts [3] - Wholesale revenue decreased by 1.0% to CAD 135.9 million, aligning with revenue from the comparative quarter [3] - Other revenue saw a significant decline of 62.0% to CAD 10.1 million, primarily due to fewer Friends & Family events and employee sales [3] Balance Sheet and Debt Management - Inventory decreased by 3% year-over-year to CAD 460.7 million, reflecting higher demand and proactive inventory management [4] - The company ended the quarter with net debt of CAD 707.1 million, down from CAD 826.4 million a year earlier, due to disciplined working capital management and cash generated from operations [5] Corporate Governance - Stephen Gunn retired from the Board of Directors, and Belinda Wong was appointed as an audit committee financial expert [6] Shareholder Returns - Canada Goose announced an early renewal of its normal course issuer bid (NCIB), allowing for the purchase of up to 4,578,677 subordinate voting shares over the next twelve months [7][8]

Product Innovation - Nike introduces "Amplify," a powered footwear system designed to enhance movement [1] - The system features a flexible cuff battery and motor to aid walking and running [2] - The technology calibrates to the user's muscles and gait, providing an assistive "hug" [3] - The system can be controlled through an app and worn with or without the robotics [5] - Nike emphasizes the design aims to help people move more, whether faster or further [5] Target Audience & Application - The shoe may not be designed for competitive sports but could benefit recovery for elite athletes [6] - It may help individuals who want to reduce stress or strain during activities like marathon training [6] Concerns & Considerations - There are concerns about battery dependency and potential muscle weakness [7] - Designers acknowledge the complexity of the human body compared to machines [7] - Early prototypes had durability issues, but the final product is expected to be more durable [8]

Core Insights - Tom Kennedy, a longtime executive at Wolverine Worldwide, has retired after 10 years with the company, having served in various leadership roles since 2015 [1][2] - Justin Cupps has been appointed as the new president of Wolverine Worldwide's Work Group, overseeing several brands including Wolverine, Bates, and Merrell Work [3][4] - Wolverine Worldwide reported a 6.8% increase in total revenue for Q3 2025, reaching $470.3 million, compared to $440.2 million in the same period last year [6] Leadership Changes - Tom Kennedy retired in October 2023, having most recently served as president of the Work Group and held key roles including global president of Sperry [1][2] - Justin Cupps brings nearly 30 years of experience from brands like Under Armour and Adidas, and previously led a $1.25 billion portfolio at EssilorLuxottica [5][6] - CEO Chris Hufnagel expressed confidence in Cupps' ability to drive growth and innovation within the Work Group [4][10] Financial Performance - Wolverine Worldwide's Q3 2025 net earnings were $25.1 million, an increase from $23.2 million in the same period last year, with diluted earnings per share rising to 30 cents from 28 cents [7] - Saucony and Merrell brands showed significant growth, with Saucony's net sales increasing by 27.0% to $133.1 million and Merrell's by 5.1% to $167.3 million [7] - The Wolverine brand experienced an 8.2% decline in net sales to $45.3 million, and Sweaty Betty saw a 3.9% decline to $44.5 million [8] Strategic Outlook - CEO Hufnagel acknowledged the challenges faced by the Wolverine brand and the Work Group, indicating that progress has not met expectations [8][9] - Cupps' appointment is seen as a strategic move to accelerate necessary changes and strengthen the product pipeline, focusing on market segmentation and premium offerings [10][11] - The company aims to return to steady growth by addressing identified challenges and leveraging a proven playbook [9][10]