Core Viewpoint - Estée Lauder reported a significant decline in net sales and a substantial loss for fiscal year 2025, indicating ongoing challenges despite strategic adjustments. The management believes the results align with expectations and reflect the effectiveness of their transformation efforts, particularly in the Chinese market [1][4][6]. Financial Performance - For fiscal year 2025, Estée Lauder's net sales were $14.326 billion, down 8% year-over-year, with a net loss of $1.133 billion, a 390% decline from a profit of $390 million the previous year [3][4]. - Key business segments experienced revenue declines: skincare and scalp care down 12% and 10% respectively, while makeup sales fell by 6%. The operating profit for makeup, fragrance, and scalp care turned negative, with skincare profit down 22% [3][4]. Market Dynamics - The decline in performance is attributed to the underperformance of core brands Estée Lauder and La Mer, which have negatively impacted overall results [3][4]. - The brand's increasing mainstream appeal and lack of innovation have led to diminished competitiveness, with local Chinese beauty brands capturing market share [5][10]. Strategic Focus - Estée Lauder is placing significant emphasis on the Chinese market, forecasting a return to mid-single-digit growth in fiscal year 2026, reflecting initial signs of stabilization [8]. - The company has initiated a major transformation strategy called "Beauty Reimagined," aiming to enhance consumer focus and regain market leadership [6][8]. Innovation and R&D - The company acknowledges a lack of product innovation as a critical issue, planning to hire a new head of R&D to increase the proportion of sales from innovative products to over 25% by fiscal year 2026 [9][10]. - Estée Lauder's R&D spending has been lower than competitors, maintaining a ratio of 1.5%-2%, compared to 3% for L'Oréal and Shiseido, which has contributed to slower product launches [9][10].