Core Insights - The Baron Asset Fund underperformed for the second consecutive quarter, declining 4.23% in Q3 2025, while the Index gained 2.78% [3] - The underperformance was primarily due to the Fund's underexposure to Momentum, Beta, and Residual Volatility factors, which led the market higher [3] - The Fund's overexposure to Earnings Quality negatively impacted performance as lower quality stocks rallied during the quarter [3] Sector Performance - Stock selection in IT and Communication Services accounted for about three-quarters of the underperformance, with significant declines from Gartner, Inc. and StubHub Holdings, Inc. [4] - Weakness in Consumer Discretionary was broad-based, with notable declines from Choice Hotels International, Inc. and On Holding AG [5] - Financials were hindered by FactSet Research Systems Inc. and Morningstar, Inc., affected by industry-wide concerns regarding AI and a shift in investor focus [7] - Health Care showed solid stock selection, driven by strong performance from IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. [8] Key Contributors - IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. contributed 1.13% to returns, benefiting from improved foot traffic and revenue growth in its Companion Animal segment [9] - Amphenol Corporation gained 1.01% as expectations for data center spending rose, bolstered by a significant acquisition [10] - SpaceX reported substantial growth in its Starlink service and continued advancements in rocket technology [11][12] Key Detractors - Gartner, Inc. detracted 2.31% from performance due to disappointing earnings and decelerating contract value growth [13] - StubHub Holdings, Inc. faced challenges post-IPO, with investments impacting near-term results [16] - Verisk Analytics, Inc. was affected by a conservative outlook and concerns about the property and casualty insurance market [17]

Core Viewpoint - The company aims to establish itself as the most premium global sportswear brand, with a focus on strong product momentum in the Asia-Pacific region [1] Company Strategy - The CEO of On Holding emphasizes the strategy to build a premium sportswear brand [1] Market Performance - The company's products are experiencing strong momentum specifically in the Asia-Pacific market [1]

Core Insights - The company reported strong Q3 results with nearly 35% constant currency growth, raising guidance for year-end, indicating robust demand in the US despite price increases and no plans for Black Friday discounts [1][2]. Company Strategy - The company is focused on building a premium global sportswear brand, differentiating itself from competitors by creating a strong emotional connection with customers [2][3]. - Investment in product innovation, quality, sustainability, and premium customer experiences is central to the company's strategy [3]. Market Performance - The Asia Pacific region has shown exceptional growth, with over 100% growth for four consecutive quarters, driven by a strong demand for premium brands [4][5]. - The company is expanding its market by attracting new customers who do not currently engage with sportswear, rather than competing directly with existing players [8][9]. Product Categories - The company is currently performing well in running and tennis categories, with plans to expand into new sports categories by 2026 [10][11]. - The apparel segment has seen a 100% growth, indicating a significant opportunity for future expansion [11][13]. Pricing Strategy - The company maintains a full-price sales strategy during the holiday season, avoiding discounting, which has resulted in a record gross profit margin [14][15]. - The company is effectively managing tariff impacts while maintaining strong pricing power and control over its operations [15][16].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved record net sales of CHF 794.4 million, growing 24.9% year over year on a reported basis and 34.5% at constant currency [17][30] - Gross profit margin reached 65.7%, an increase of 510 basis points year over year, while adjusted EBITDA margin was 22.6%, up 370 basis points year over year [25][26] - Adjusted EBITDA grew nearly 50% year over year, amounting to CHF 179.9 million [17][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Performance footwear net sales reached CHF 731.3 million, increasing by 21.1% year over year on a reported basis and 30.4% at constant currency [22] - Apparel category net sales reached CHF 50.1 million, an increase of 86.9% year over year on a reported basis and 100.2% at constant currency, with over 1 million apparel units sold in a single quarter for the first time [23][30] - Direct-to-consumer (D2C) channel net sales reached CHF 314.7 million, an increase of 27.6% year over year on a reported basis and 37.5% at constant currency [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Asia Pacific region delivered net sales of CHF 144.9 million, up 94.2% year over year on a reported basis and 109.2% at constant currency, now approaching 20% of total sales [21] - Americas net sales reached CHF 436.2 million, growing 10.3% year over year on a reported basis and 21% at constant currency [19] - Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) net sales reached CHF 213.3 million, up 28.6% year over year on a reported basis and 33% at constant currency [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be the most premium global sportswear brand, focusing on brand awareness and premium positioning [12][52] - The strategy includes expanding the apparel business as a standalone growth pillar, with a focus on D2C channels and retail presence [15][42] - The company plans to double net sales by 2026, implying a 26% net sales constant currency CAGR over three years [32][33] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the brand's momentum and the ability to maintain premium pricing despite external challenges [30][66] - The company anticipates strong growth across all regions, with a focus on maintaining a full-price sales strategy during the holiday season [77][78] - The outlook for 2026 includes a constant currency growth expectation of at least 23%, supported by a robust product pipeline and strategic investments [31][56] Other Important Information - The company opened new flagship stores in key markets, including Tokyo and Zurich, which contributed to record sales [13][18] - The company is leveraging collaborations with cultural icons to enhance brand appeal among younger consumers [10][87] - The cash balance at the end of Q3 stood at CHF 961.8 million, reflecting strong operational cash flow management [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the traction in apparel and its regional performance? - Management highlighted strong traction in apparel, accounting for about 8% of total business, with significant growth in running, training, and tennis categories [38][39] Question: How do you balance top-line growth with margin protection? - Management emphasized the importance of discipline in inventory management and maintaining a premium business model to protect margins while driving growth [45][46] Question: Can you elaborate on the 2026 guidance and growth expectations? - Management confirmed that the 2026 guidance is based on constant currency and reflects strong growth across all regions, with a focus on brand awareness and premium positioning [51][56] Question: What is the outlook for gross margin in Q4? - Management indicated that there is potential for margin upside in Q4, supported by operational improvements and favorable market conditions [60][61] Question: How is the company connecting with younger consumers? - Management noted successful collaborations with cultural figures and the launch of a kids line, which has resonated well with younger demographics [87]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net sales of CHF 794.4 million, representing a year-over-year growth of 24.9% on a reported basis and 34.5% at constant currency [17][30] - Gross profit margin reached 65.7%, an increase of 510 basis points year-over-year, while adjusted EBITDA margin was 22.6%, up 370 basis points year-over-year [25][31] - Adjusted EBITDA grew nearly 50% year-over-year, amounting to CHF 179.9 million [17][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Performance footwear net sales reached CHF 731.3 million, growing 21.1% year-over-year on a reported basis and 30.4% at constant currency [22] - Apparel category net sales surged to CHF 50.1 million, an increase of 86.9% year-over-year on a reported basis and 100.2% at constant currency, with over 1 million apparel units sold in a single quarter for the first time [23][30] - Direct-to-consumer (D2C) channel net sales reached CHF 314.7 million, up 27.6% year-over-year on a reported basis and 37.5% at constant currency [17][30] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Asia Pacific region net sales grew to CHF 144.9 million, a remarkable increase of 94.2% year-over-year on a reported basis and 109.2% at constant currency [21] - The Americas reported net sales of CHF 436.2 million, growing 10.3% year-over-year on a reported basis and 21% at constant currency [19] - Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) saw net sales of CHF 213.3 million, up 28.6% year-over-year on a reported basis and 33% at constant currency [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain its position as the most premium global sportswear brand, focusing on brand awareness and premium positioning [12][30] - The strategy includes expanding the apparel business as a standalone growth pillar, with a focus on D2C sales and enhancing the customer experience [15][44] - The company plans to continue investing in innovation and technology, with a strong product pipeline set to launch in 2026 [9][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the brand's momentum and the effectiveness of its premium strategy, particularly in the face of price increases and tariff impacts [19][66] - The company anticipates strong growth across all regions, with a focus on maintaining full-price sales and avoiding discounting strategies [67][74] - The outlook for 2026 includes a constant currency growth expectation of at least 23%, supported by a robust product pipeline and strategic investments [33][56] Other Important Information - The company opened new flagship stores in key markets, including Tokyo and Zurich, which contributed to record sales [13][18] - The successful launch of collaborations with cultural icons like Zendaya and Burna Boy is enhancing brand appeal among younger consumers [10][84] - The company is leveraging operational efficiencies to improve its cash conversion cycle and maintain a strong cash balance of CHF 961.8 million [28] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the traction in apparel and its regional performance? - Management highlighted strong traction in apparel, accounting for about 8% of total business, with significant growth in running, training, and tennis categories [38][39] Question: How does the company balance top-line growth with margin protection? - Management emphasized the importance of disciplined inventory management and maintaining a premium business model to protect margins while driving growth [47][49] Question: What is the outlook for U.S. growth compared to other regions? - Management indicated that U.S. growth remains strong, supported by effective price increases and brand awareness, while also noting significant growth opportunities in Asia and EMEA [66][70] Question: Can you elaborate on the younger consumer segment? - Management noted that the younger consumer segment is becoming increasingly important, with successful collaborations and a growing kids line contributing to this trend [84][86]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved record net sales of CHF 794.4 million, growing 24.9% year over year on a reported basis and 34.5% at constant currency [17][30] - Gross profit margin reached 65.7%, an increase of 510 basis points year over year, while adjusted EBITDA margin was 22.6%, up 370 basis points year over year [25][31] - Adjusted EBITDA grew nearly 50% year over year, amounting to CHF 179.9 million [17][25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) channel net sales reached CHF 314.7 million, increasing by 27.6% year over year on a reported basis and 37.5% at constant currency [17] - Wholesale channel net sales were CHF 479.6 million, increasing by 23.3% year over year on a reported basis and 32.5% at constant currency [18] - Apparel category net sales reached CHF 50.1 million, an increase of 86.9% year over year on a reported basis and 100.2% at constant currency [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Asia Pacific region delivered net sales of CHF 144.9 million, up 94.2% year over year on a reported basis and 109.2% at constant currency, now approaching 20% of total sales [20] - Americas net sales reached CHF 436.2 million, growing 10.3% year over year on a reported basis and 21% at constant currency [19] - Europe, Middle East, and Africa saw net sales of CHF 213.3 million, up 28.6% year over year on a reported basis and 33% at constant currency [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to be the most premium global sportswear brand, focusing on brand awareness and premium positioning [11][30] - The strategy includes expanding the apparel business as a standalone growth pillar, with a focus on D2C channels and retail presence [15][47] - The company plans to continue investing in innovation and technology to drive long-term growth and maintain premium pricing [31][56] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the brand's momentum and the ability to maintain premium pricing despite market challenges [19][70] - The company raised its 2025 guidance, expecting constant currency net sales to grow by 34% year over year, up from a previous estimate of at least 31% [30][31] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining a full-price strategy during the holiday season to build long-term brand value [80] Other Important Information - The company opened new flagship stores in key markets, including Tokyo and Zurich, which contributed to record sales [12][18] - The successful launch of new products, including the Cloud Surfer Max and collaborations with celebrities, has enhanced brand visibility and appeal [8][9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the traction in apparel and its performance in different channels? - Management reported strong traction in apparel, accounting for about 8% of total business, with a goal to reach double digits [40][43] - The apparel business is performing well in both D2C and wholesale channels, with a focus on showcasing products in flagship stores [43][47] Question: How does the company balance top-line growth with margin protection? - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining a premium business model, which requires disciplined inventory management to protect full-price sales [49][50] - The company has achieved a sustainable gross profit margin through pricing power and operational improvements [51][52] Question: What is the outlook for growth in the U.S. market? - Management indicated that the U.S. market is expected to continue strong growth, supported by brand awareness and premium positioning [67][70] - The company is committed to a full-price strategy and is not chasing growth through discounts [70] Question: Can you elaborate on the growth opportunities in Asia Pacific? - Management noted that Asia Pacific is experiencing significant same-store sales growth, with a disciplined approach to opening new stores [78][79] - The company is focused on building brand awareness and credibility in the region, which has high demand for premium sportswear [79]

Core Insights - NIKE Inc. is implementing a "Sport Offense" strategy to unify its brands NIKE, Jordan, and Converse, aiming for sharper focus, faster innovation, and stronger consumer connections [1][8] - The strategy is inspired by the success in running, where double-digit growth was achieved through athlete-centric innovation [1] Brand Performance - Jordan Brand remains a cultural powerhouse, while NIKE is stabilizing core franchises like Air Force 1 and Air Jordan 1 [2] - Converse is undergoing a reset under new leadership to regain profitable growth through sharper positioning and refreshed designs [2] - The combination of these three brands creates a unique ecosystem that blends performance, lifestyle, and streetwear across various price points, which is NIKE's competitive edge [2] Market Challenges - NIKE faces hurdles such as softness in sportswear, lagging sales in China, and weaker digital traffic [3] - The company must prove that its brand trio can sustain momentum across markets, with management indicating that growth may not be linear [3] Competitive Landscape - Key competitors include adidas AG and lululemon athletica inc. [4] - adidas is recovering by focusing on brand strength and profitability, seeing renewed momentum from classic lifestyle products and core performance categories [5] - lululemon is outperforming in the premium activewear space, driven by innovation in performance fabrics and strong brand loyalty [6] Financial Performance - NIKE shares have declined by 19.3% year to date, compared to the industry's decline of 20.7% [7] - The forward price-to-earnings ratio for NIKE is 30.26X, higher than the industry average of 25.91X [9] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a year-over-year earnings decline of 23.6% for fiscal 2026, followed by a projected growth of 50.5% for fiscal 2027 [10]

Core Insights - Baron Focused Growth Fund reported a 4.83% appreciation in Q3 2025, underperforming the Russell 2500 Growth Index's 10.73% gain due to economic growth slowdown concerns affecting Consumer Discretionary stocks [1] - Competitive pressures have negatively impacted the valuations of some holdings within the fund [1] Company Analysis: On Holding AG (NYSE:ONON) - On Holding AG experienced a one-month return of -16.67% and a 52-week loss of 28.38%, closing at $36.08 with a market capitalization of $11.782 billion on November 5, 2025 [2] - Despite macroeconomic uncertainties and rising competition, On Holding AG reported a 38% revenue increase and raised its revenue and profitability expectations for the year, indicating strong quarterly results [3] - The company is expected to gain market share in the global sportswear segment due to its premium brand positioning and innovative products, with shares considered undervalued at current levels [3] Hedge Fund Interest - On Holding AG was held by 42 hedge fund portfolios at the end of Q2 2025, a decrease from 53 in the previous quarter, indicating a decline in popularity among hedge funds [4] - While On Holding AG shows potential, certain AI stocks are viewed as offering greater upside potential and lower downside risk [4]

Core Insights - Lululemon has experienced significant growth in China, with projections indicating a rise from approximately $400 million in early 2020 to nearly $2 billion, representing about 5x growth over five years [2][3] - The contribution of China to Lululemon's global revenues is expected to increase from mid-single digits in 2020 to mid-teens in the next two years, highlighting the market's growing importance [2][3] - Despite a general slowdown in consumption, Lululemon has managed to stand out as a foreign brand in mainland China, showcasing resilience and adaptability [3][4] Company Performance - Lululemon's positioning in China aligns with the government's Healthy China 2013 initiative, emphasizing well-being and community engagement [8][13] - The company has a strong pricing power in China, reportedly better than in the United States, allowing it to maintain margins while offering high-quality products [12][19] - Lululemon's strategy includes expanding its presence in tier two cities and enhancing its online business, indicating a robust growth outlook [15][20] Market Dynamics - The athleisure market in China has seen a boom, although there are signs of a slight tail-off; Lululemon remains optimistic about maintaining momentum through events like Singles Day [7][16] - Competition from lower-priced alternatives (dupes) is acknowledged, but Lululemon believes its product quality and technology will differentiate it in the market [28][29] - The company views competition as a catalyst for innovation rather than a threat, focusing on high-performance and versatile products [26][27] Future Outlook - Projections indicate that by 2027, China could contribute approximately 16.8% to Lululemon's global revenue, up from about 10% [19] - Lululemon's strategy is not limited to China but aims to leverage successful practices in other regions, indicating a broader vision for growth [24][25] - The company remains positive about its outlook for China, expecting continued growth and engagement with local consumers [27][30]

Core Insights - NIKE, Inc. has launched the 'Sport Offense' reorganization to enhance innovation, execution, and sustainable growth [1][9] - The initiative focuses on core sports categories and aims to create a cohesive, athlete-centric ecosystem [2][4] Company Strategy - The 'Sport Offense' blueprint restructures NIKE's operations around key sports categories such as running, basketball, training, and global football [2][9] - The company aims to streamline operations and improve speed-to-market while recapturing lost margins through sharper category management [3][4] Market Position - NIKE is competing with adidas AG and lululemon athletica inc. in the global market [5] - adidas is expanding its global footwear market share through product innovation and strategic collaborations [6] - lululemon is leveraging its Power of Three X2 growth strategy, focusing on product innovation, guest experience, and market expansion [7] Financial Performance - NIKE shares have declined by 18.4% year-to-date, slightly better than the industry's decline of 18.8% [8] - The forward price-to-earnings ratio for NIKE is 32.24X, compared to the industry average of 27.30X [10] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a 23.6% year-over-year decline in fiscal 2026 earnings, followed by a projected growth of 50.5% in fiscal 2027 [11]