Summary of China Consumer Pulse Check: 3Q25 Industry Overview - The report focuses on the **China Consumer** sector, highlighting softer consumption trends in **3Q25** across various industries including spirits, sportswear, cosmetics, and dairy [2][12]. Key Findings - **Overall Demand**: Consumption trends have softened, with earnings misses and growth deceleration noted in multiple sectors. Home appliances, despite benefiting from trade-in policies, also experienced a deceleration due to tougher comparisons and subsidy controls [2][12]. - **Peak Season Performance**: Goods consumption during peak seasons, such as the National Day holiday and Double 11, was weaker than expected, indicating a broader trend of demand softness [2][12]. - **Price Pressure**: The softness in demand has continued to pressure prices in categories like sportswear, spirits, and dairy. However, some players in prepared food and air conditioning are becoming more disciplined in their promotions due to limited economic value [2][12]. - **Bright Spots**: Some multinational corporations, particularly in the premium segments like luxury goods and cosmetics, reported signs of improvement in trends, attributed to wealth effects, foreign exchange impacts, easier comparisons, and improved operations [2][12]. - **Cautious Outlook**: Despite some positive signs, the overall outlook remains cautious due to broad-based softness observed in 3Q results and deteriorating macro data related to consumption [2][12]. Sector Preferences - **Preferred Sectors**: The most preferred sectors identified are diversified retailers, beverages, and pet food. The apparel and footwear OEM sector preference has been lifted to Neutral from least preferred due to easing tariff uncertainties [3][12]. - **Least Preferred Sectors**: The least preferred sectors include sports retailers, furniture, projectors, discretionary small kitchen appliances, and non-super-premium spirits [3][12]. Investment Focus - The report emphasizes focusing on companies with idiosyncratic growth opportunities, particularly in the new consumption space, despite softening sentiment due to brand cycles and base concerns. Companies with high shareholder returns and market share efficiency are viewed as more defensive in the current consumption backdrop [2][12]. Additional Insights - **Earnings Visibility**: Companies with relatively high earnings visibility into the next year, such as those driven by store and category expansion in freshly made drinks, are highlighted as potential investment opportunities [2][12]. - **Market Dynamics**: The report notes that while some sectors are facing challenges, there are still opportunities for growth in niche and premium brands, which are expected to outperform the broader industry despite a likely slowdown compared to the first half of the year [12][14]. Conclusion - The overall sentiment in the China consumer market for 3Q25 indicates a cautious approach due to softer demand trends, with specific sectors showing resilience and potential for growth. Investors are advised to focus on companies with strong fundamentals and growth visibility while remaining aware of the broader economic challenges.

Data Summary - In the first three quarters of this year, the total retail sales of consumer goods reached 365,877 billion yuan, with a year-on-year growth of 4.5%, accelerating by 1.2 and 1.0 percentage points compared to the same period last year and the entire previous year respectively [1] - The "old-for-new" policy has shown significant effects, with retail sales of furniture increasing by 21.3%, and home appliances and audio-visual equipment, as well as cultural and office supplies, growing by 25.3% and 19.9% respectively, indicating a notable acceleration compared to the previous year [1] - As of September 10, over 8.3 million applications for the "old-for-new" car policy have been submitted nationwide, averaging over 30,000 applications per day [1] Case Study - In a Beijing auto dealership, various cars displayed prominent subsidy tags, attracting many customers. A customer noted that the combination of new energy vehicle subsidies and "old-for-new" incentives resulted in a total discount of 20,000 yuan [2] - The fourth quarter has seen the allocation of 69 billion yuan in national subsidies, completing the distribution of 300 billion yuan in central funds for the "old-for-new" policy this year, which supports the upcoming "Double Eleven" shopping festival [2] - The combination of "old-for-new" and national subsidies has significantly stimulated consumer enthusiasm, leading to a vibrant consumption market and an optimization of consumption structure, with high-efficiency and smart home appliances seeing sustained high growth in retail sales [2] Expert Commentary - According to an expert from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, 330 million people have applied for the "old-for-new" policy from January to August, driving related sales exceeding 2 trillion yuan and supporting a 4.5% growth in retail sales of consumer goods [3] - The policy has notably promoted the upgrade of consumer goods, invigorating the market and improving residents' quality of life, while also accelerating product and capital turnover for enterprises [3] - The current period is crucial for achieving socialist modernization, with an emphasis on enhancing consumer capacity and demand, necessitating local governments to implement measures to stimulate consumption and optimize policies across various dimensions [3]

Core Insights - Martela Corporation reported improved revenue and operating results for January-September 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with a profitable operating result in the third quarter [1][10][12]. Financial Performance - Revenue for July-September 2025 was EUR 20.7 million, unchanged from the same period last year, while revenue for January-September 2025 was EUR 70.9 million, reflecting a 14.5% increase from EUR 61.9 million in 2024 [5][10]. - The operating result for July-September 2025 was EUR 0.3 million, a significant improvement from a loss of EUR 0.9 million in the same period last year [5][12]. - The overall operating result for January-September 2025 was a loss of EUR 1.2 million, improved from a loss of EUR 4.8 million in 2024 [5][11]. - Earnings per share for July-September 2025 were EUR -0.09, compared to EUR -0.28 in the same period last year [5][9]. Market Outlook - Martela anticipates an increase in revenue for the full year 2025 compared to 2024, with expectations of operating profit close to zero [4]. - The company noted a slight decrease in new orders by about 1% during the review period, with revenue growth primarily in Finland, while other markets saw declines [10]. - The competitive landscape remains intense, but pressure on margins has lessened compared to the second half of 2024 [16]. Strategic Focus - The company is concentrating on improving profitability and cash flow, with measures already yielding commendable results expected to be fully realized later in the year [13]. - Martela aims to enhance customer engagement and develop service channels while maintaining a focus on sustainability and circular economy principles [14][15].

Core Viewpoint - The analysis compares MillerKnoll (MLKN) and Bassett Furniture (BSET) to determine which stock is more undervalued for investors [1] Valuation Metrics - MillerKnoll has a forward P/E ratio of 7.64, while Bassett Furniture has a forward P/E of 17.99 [5] - MillerKnoll's PEG ratio is 0.64, indicating better expected earnings growth relative to its price, compared to Bassett's PEG ratio of 1.12 [5] - MillerKnoll has a P/B ratio of 0.75, while Bassett's P/B ratio is 0.76, suggesting that both stocks are trading close to their book values [6] Investment Ratings - MillerKnoll currently holds a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), indicating a positive earnings outlook, whereas Bassett Furniture has a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [3] - Based on valuation metrics, MillerKnoll has a Value grade of A, while Bassett Furniture has a Value grade of C [6] Conclusion - The analysis concludes that MillerKnoll is the superior option for value investors due to stronger estimate revision activity and more attractive valuation metrics compared to Bassett Furniture [7]

Group 1 - The stock of MillerKnoll, Inc. (MLKN) is experiencing significant attention due to high implied volatility in the options market, particularly for the Nov. 21, 2025 $15 Call option [1] - Implied volatility indicates market expectations for future stock movement, suggesting potential upcoming events that could lead to substantial price changes [2] - Currently, MillerKnoll holds a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) in the Furniture industry, which is in the top 30% of the Zacks Industry Rank [3] Group 2 - Over the past 60 days, no analysts have increased earnings estimates for MillerKnoll for the current quarter, while one analyst has lowered their estimate, resulting in a decrease in the Zacks Consensus Estimate from 42 cents per share to 40 cents [3] - The high implied volatility may indicate a developing trading opportunity, as options traders often seek to sell premium on options with high implied volatility to capture decay [4]

Core Point - Haverty Furniture Companies, Inc. announced a quarterly dividend increase from $0.32 to $0.33 per share on its common stock [1] Summary by Category - **Dividend Announcement** - The Board of Directors declared a $0.01 increase in the quarterly dividend [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net revenue for Q3 2025 was $345 million, an increase of 8% year-over-year, marking the highest third-quarter net revenue in the company's history [4][14] - Comparable growth was 4.1%, indicating healthy underlying client demand and strong operational execution [14] - Gross profit reached $133.4 million, up 8.4% from the previous year, with a gross margin of 38.7%, reflecting product margin gains and improved operational efficiencies [17] - Net income was $12.2 million, growing 23.1% year-over-year, representing approximately 2.9 times earnings leverage on 8% net revenue growth [17] - Adjusted EBITDA was $31.2 million, up 35.2% year-over-year, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 9.1% [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The fall 2025 collection was noted as the strongest launch in company history, contributing significantly to demand [5] - Upholstery, a core product line, saw exceptional performance, with nearly 70% sourced domestically, providing a competitive advantage [6][7] - Custom orders achieved the highest September total demand in company history, supported by strong reception to newly introduced upholstery collections [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - September marked the highest total demand month in the company's history, with record levels of new product introductions [6] - Demand comparable growth for the quarter was 7.4%, reflecting the strength of the high-end client base [14] - October saw a moderation in demand comparable growth, down 14.8%, largely due to timing effects and promotional calendar shifts [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company remains focused on disciplined profitability growth, innovation, and expanding its showroom footprint [12] - Showroom expansion is a foundational pillar of the long-term strategy, with plans to complete approximately 12-15 total showroom projects in 2025 [24] - The company is investing in technology infrastructure to enhance operational efficiency and improve client experience [25][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's outlook despite macroeconomic uncertainties, emphasizing the strength of the brand and high-end client engagement [11][30] - The company anticipates a tariff impact of approximately $12 million for 2025, with expectations of $50-$60 million for 2026 [22][23] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining quality and design standards while navigating pricing adjustments due to tariffs [46] Other Important Information - The company is committed to sustainability, focusing on responsibly sourced materials and collaboration with skilled artisans [10] - The digital transformation project is underway, with an investment of approximately $30 million planned through 2030 [26] Q&A Session Summary Question: Feedback on the Bath Collection and its impact on future product expansions - Management reported positive initial feedback on the Bath Collection, indicating it will be a staple part of the business and contribute to future growth [31][32] Question: Insights on the average store model evolution and productivity - Management discussed ongoing evolution of store designs to enhance customer experience, with Pasadena showroom serving as a prime example [33][34] Question: Clarification on October's demand decline and underlying trends - Management acknowledged the expected softness in October due to promotional shifts and pull-forward demand from September, emphasizing strong engagement from high-end clients [38][39] Question: Clarification on tariff impact estimates - Management confirmed the $50-$60 million annualized tariff impact is net of mitigation strategies, with ongoing efforts to protect margins through supplier negotiations [44][47] Question: CapEx guidance reduction and future expectations - Management explained the reduction in CapEx guidance was due to delays in technology initiatives and timing of showroom projects, maintaining a focus on showroom expansion [54][55]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For fiscal year 2025, the company reported a gross margin of 60.5% and an operating margin of 10.2%, demonstrating resilience despite a challenging economic environment [5][6] - The company ended the fiscal year with cash and investments totaling $196 million and no debt, while distributing over $50 million in cash dividends [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has reduced the number of designers by 50% over the past decade but has achieved a 73% increase in business per retail associate, indicating improved efficiency [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company manufactures approximately 75% of its furniture in North America, which provides a competitive advantage and allows for custom orders to be fulfilled efficiently [5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focuses on five key areas: talent, service, marketing, technology, and social responsibility, which are integral to its operational strategy [4] - Investments in technology have been highlighted as a game changer, enhancing operational efficiency across various functions [4] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism for fiscal 2026, citing the strength of the business model and a robust balance sheet as foundations for future growth [6] - The company remains committed to social responsibility and treating associates and clients with respect [5] Other Important Information - The company has a strong and diverse Board of Directors, with all current members standing for election [2][3] - The meeting confirmed that all proposals, including the election of directors and the appointment of independent auditors, were approved [11] Q&A Session Summary - No questions or comments were presented during the Q&A session, indicating a lack of inquiries from stockholders [15][16]

Core Viewpoint - Sleep Number (SNBR) reported quarterly earnings of $0.07 per share, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.15 per share, and compared to a loss of $0.14 per share a year ago, indicating a significant earnings surprise of -53.33% [1] Financial Performance - The company posted revenues of $342.88 million for the quarter ended September 2025, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 6.28%, and down from $426.62 million in the same quarter last year [2] - Over the last four quarters, Sleep Number has surpassed consensus EPS estimates only once [2] Stock Performance - Sleep Number shares have declined approximately 63.9% since the beginning of the year, contrasting with the S&P 500's gain of 15.1% [3] Future Outlook - The company's earnings outlook will be crucial for investors, particularly in light of recent earnings expectations and revisions [4] - The current consensus EPS estimate for the upcoming quarter is $0.10 on revenues of $352.8 million, while for the current fiscal year, it is projected at -$1.22 on revenues of $1.44 billion [7] Industry Context - The Furniture industry, to which Sleep Number belongs, is currently ranked in the top 41% of over 250 Zacks industries, suggesting that the industry outlook can significantly impact stock performance [8]

Core Viewpoint - La-Z-Boy Incorporated is set to report its Fiscal 2026 Second Quarter results on November 18, 2025, with a subsequent investor conference call scheduled for November 19, 2025 [1] Company Overview - La-Z-Boy Incorporated is a vertically integrated furniture retailer and manufacturer, known for its iconic recliner invented in 1927, and is committed to quality and consumer compassion [4] - The company operates over 200 company-owned La-Z-Boy stores and is part of a broader network of nearly 370 stores, including Joybird, which has 14 stores in the U.S. [5] Investor Communication - The upcoming conference call will be available via live webcast and will include corresponding slides [2] - A telephone replay of the conference call will be accessible for two weeks post-call, with specific numbers for U.S., Canada, and international callers [3]