Key Takeaways NKE is set to report Q2 results with revenues expected to slip 1.7% y/y and EPS projected to fall 52.6%.NIKE sees growth in North America and EMEA, led by wholesale gains, pricing discipline and inventory cleanup.NKE faces pressure from China weakness, higher tariffs and margin strain as it phases out footwear franchises.NIKE Inc. (NKE) is slated to release second-quarter fiscal 2026 results on Dec. 18. The leading sports apparel retailer is estimated to have witnessed year-over-year declines ...

Core Viewpoint - NIKE Inc. is expected to report declines in both revenue and earnings for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, with projected revenues of $11 billion, reflecting a 5% year-over-year decrease, and earnings per share (EPS) of 28 cents, indicating a 60% decline from the previous year [1][2][9] Financial Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal first-quarter revenues is $11 billion, suggesting a 5% decline from the prior year's figure [2] - The estimated EPS for the fiscal first quarter is 28 cents, indicating a significant 60% drop compared to the year-ago number [2] - In the last reported quarter, NIKE achieved an earnings surprise of 16.7%, beating the consensus estimate by an average of 42% over the trailing four quarters [3] Strategic Initiatives - NIKE is implementing its "Win Now" strategy, aimed at restoring brand momentum and positioning for sustainable growth after previous underperformance [5] - The company is focusing on leadership changes, product portfolio rebalancing, and enhancing marketing efforts through major sports events [6] - NIKE is prioritizing sports performance and product innovation, with new offerings like Pegasus Premium and Vomero 18, to cater to evolving consumer preferences [8] Market Positioning - NIKE is strengthening its wholesale partnerships and optimizing its supply chain, which is expected to cushion the bottom line in the upcoming quarter [7] - The company is revitalizing its digital and retail strategy by reducing promotions and improving premium brand positioning [10] Challenges - NIKE faces significant near-term challenges, including aggressive reductions in aging footwear franchises, a reset in China, and new U.S. tariffs that add a $1 billion structural cost burden [11][12] - Management anticipates a mid-single-digit revenue decline and a gross margin contraction of 350-425 basis points, with a notable impact from tariffs [13] - SG&A expenses are projected to increase, which may prolong profitability headwinds without a swift rebound in revenue growth [14] Stock Performance - NIKE shares have risen 13.9% over the past three months, outperforming the broader Consumer Discretionary sector and the S&P 500 [15] - However, NIKE's performance lags behind competitors like Wolverine World Wide and Steven Madden, which have seen significant stock price increases [16] Valuation - At a current price of $71.22, NIKE trades at a forward 12-month P/E multiple of 36.13X, which is above the industry average of 29.83X and the S&P 500's average of 23.44X [18] Long-term Outlook - NIKE's strategic initiatives are expected to build a strong foundation for long-term growth, focusing on innovation and improved consumer engagement [21] - While these efforts may create long-term value, short-term revenue challenges are anticipated due to weak demand in lifestyle products and ongoing issues in Greater China [23][25] - The company's long-term strategies aim to enhance brand equity and capture evolving consumer demand, despite the current financial pressures [24]