Investment Rating - The report maintains a positive outlook on L'Oréal, indicating an "Outperform" rating for the stock over the next 12-18 months [19]. Core Insights - L'Oréal's sales growth momentum significantly strengthened in Q3 2025, driven by the "Beauty Stimulus Plan" and successful new product launches, achieving sales of €32.80 billion for the first nine months, with a like-for-like growth of 3.4% [2][8]. - The company announced a strategic acquisition of Kering Beauté for €4.0 billion, which includes the niche fragrance brand Creed and licenses for Balenciaga and Bottega Veneta, enhancing its luxury portfolio [5][11]. Summary by Sections Financial Performance - In Q3 2025, L'Oréal's sales reached approximately €8.05 billion, with a like-for-like growth accelerating to 4.2%, up from 3.5% in Q1 and 2.4% in Q2 [2][8]. - The "Beauty Stimulus Plan" contributed approximately 170 basis points to growth in Q3, an increase from 150 basis points in the first half of the year [2][8]. Divisional Performance - The Professional Products Division saw a 9.3% growth, driven by the strong performance of Kérastase and the acquisition of Color Wow [3][9]. - The Consumer Products Division experienced a notable rebound, particularly in North America, with growth exceeding 20% for Mixa in Europe and successful expansion of 3CE in Southeast Asia [3][9]. - The L'Oréal Luxe Division continued to outperform the market, especially in North Asia, while the Dermatological Beauty Division showed balanced growth across its major brands [3][9]. Regional Growth - Sales in Europe grew by 4.1%, with strong performances in Spain, Portugal, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy [4][10]. - North America experienced a 1.4% growth, with a cumulative growth of 3.1% for the first nine months after IT system adjustments [4][10]. - The SAPMENA–SSA region led with a 12.2% growth, with online channels acting as a key growth driver [4][10]. Strategic Developments - The acquisition of Kering Beauté is seen as a strategic highlight, expected to enhance L'Oréal's position in the luxury beauty market and potentially double Creed's sales [5][11]. - Key executive changes were announced to facilitate the integration of the acquired brands, including the establishment of a 50/50 joint venture focused on health and longevity services [5][11].