What We Learned Last Week, What to Expect This Week
[BROADMIND REPOST] Analysis of major corporate announcements including earnings and executive speeches - for the weeks of Jan 27 and Feb 3.
Dear RIW subscribers - sharing a repost of today’s
newsletter. Helpful for anyone tracking big retailers and consumer brands.Last Week in Review
Last week’s earnings calls delivered a mixed bag of robust growth stories and strategic challenges. Based on the analysis in PSFK’s Broadmind system, here are some highlights from companies that recently reported:
Apple Inc.
Apple’s Q4 2024 report showed a 4% revenue increase to $124.3 billion, driven by record services revenue and strong customer engagement. Despite headwinds from slowing iPhone sales and challenges in Greater China along with foreign exchange impacts, the tech giant continues to leverage its diversified revenue streams, robust ecosystem, and innovative products like Apple Intelligence and the forthcoming Apple Vision Pro to maintain its market leadership.
More details: Apple Inc.Colgate-Palmolive
Reporting $20 billion in sales in Q4 2025 with high single-digit organic growth, Colgate-Palmolive benefited from a 15% increase in ad spend and strong innovation. The company delivered consistent volume growth and market share gains in Europe and emerging markets while returning record cash flow to shareholders. However, challenges in regions like Europe, China, and the Asian Skin Health segment persist.
More details: Colgate-PalmoliveDeckers Outdoor Corporation
In Q3 2024, Deckers Outdoor recorded 17% revenue growth to $1.83 billion with strong performances from UGG (up 16%) and HOKA (up 24%). With a gross margin of 60.3% and EPS rising 19% to $3, the company raised its full-year guidance to $4.9 billion. Despite rising SG&A expenses and increased inventory, Deckers’ strong brand portfolio and customer loyalty continue to drive its growth.
More details: Deckers Outdoor CorporationAB Electrolux
AB Electrolux demonstrated resilience in Q4 2024 with 11.5% organic sales growth driven by strong Latin American performance. The company achieved SEK 4 billion in cost reductions, lifting operating margins from 2.2% to 3.3%, though it continues to face operating losses in North America. With a robust liquidity position of SEK 34.1 billion, Electrolux is investing in marketing and product development to capitalize on opportunities in emerging markets, smart home appliances, and sustainability trends.
More details: AB ElectroluxGeneral Motors (GM)
GM’s Q4 2024 performance featured a 9% revenue increase to $187 billion and a 38% rise in adjusted EPS (up to $10.60). As the second-largest EV seller with nearly 10% market share, GM benefits from a strong EV portfolio and strategic restructuring. However, challenges in China and the ongoing reorganization of its autonomous vehicle subsidiary, Cruise, underscore the competitive pressures it faces.
More details: General MotorsJetBlue Airlines
JetBlue’s Q4 2024 results highlighted improved operational performance, with a 6-point boost in on-time performance and a 99% completion factor. The JetForward Plan is driving profitability and operational improvements, even as the airline contends with a lower operating margin compared to peers and issues like Pratt & Whitney aircraft groundings.
More details: JetBlue AirlinesKimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark’s Q4 2024 results underscored strong organizational transformation, innovation focus, and market share gains despite moderated pricing and operational challenges. The company’s solid performance in premium segments sets a cautiously positive tone for 2025, though margin pressures from inflation and supply chain vulnerabilities remain concerns.
More details: Kimberly-ClarkLas Vegas Sands
In Q4 2024, Las Vegas Sands achieved 6% revenue growth in Macao and an impressive 28% increase in Singapore. With ongoing renovations and expansion efforts aimed at boosting EBITDA, the company is well-positioned to benefit from post-pandemic travel demand, despite challenges such as reduced room inventory and reliance on specific markets.
More details: Las Vegas SandsLevi Strauss & Co.
Levi Strauss reported a solid Q4 2024 with 12% revenue growth and a record gross margin of 61.3%, driven by strong direct-to-consumer performance. The company is streamlining its portfolio and planning to open 50–60 new stores in 2025 to capitalize on growth opportunities, even as it navigates headwinds in China and rising operational costs.
More details: Levi Strauss & Co.Logitech
Logitech’s Q3 2024 earnings showcased 6% net sales growth, an 8% acceleration in sell-out rates, and a 13% increase in gaming sales. The company’s strong cash position of $1.5 billion and active shareholder value return underline its resilience, even as it faces competition and the challenges of rapidly evolving tech trends like AI and VR.
More details: LogitechLVMH Moet Hennessy
LVMH’s Q1 2024 results reported revenue of EUR 84.6 billion with modest organic growth of 1%, while operating income fell by 14% and net profit dropped 17%. Despite these challenges, LVMH’s strong brand portfolio, strategic partnerships, and innovative initiatives in digital and sustainable practices are expected to drive future growth.
More details: LVMH Moet HennessyMastercard
Mastercard’s Q4 2024 report highlighted significant milestones such as 150 million acceptance locations, 3.5 billion cards issued, and 4 billion monthly tokenized transactions. The company continues to drive global growth through strategic partnerships and technological innovation, though it faces challenges from rising operating expenses and evolving regulatory environments.
More details: MastercardMeta
Meta’s Q4 2024 earnings call revealed strong performance with $48.4 billion in revenue and key innovations including AI advancements and a 10% workforce increase. Despite rising capital expenditures and increased debt, Meta’s diversified revenue streams and growing user base position it well for continued success amid intense competition and regulatory challenges.
More details: MetaNovartis
Novartis reported Q4 2024 results with 16% sales growth and a 29% rise in operating income, bolstered by key brand performance and a robust pipeline. While facing challenges such as patent expirations and complex regulatory environments, the company’s heavy investment in R&D and focus on personalized medicine and digital transformation underpin its long-term growth prospects.
More details: NovartisRémy Cointreau
In Q3 2024, Rémy Cointreau experienced a 21.5% sales decline driven by U.S. destocking and challenges in China, despite positive signs from e-commerce growth and strategic shifts in channel management and product innovation. The company is focused on diversifying its portfolio and enhancing operational efficiency to overcome inventory management issues and intense competition.
More details: Rémy CointreauRoyal Caribbean Cruises (RCL)
Royal Caribbean Cruises delivered a strong Q4 2024 performance with 11.6% net yield growth, record vacation deliveries, and high customer satisfaction. Continuous fleet expansion and diversified offerings have solidified its market position, although high fuel costs and capital-intensive operations remain challenges amid a recovering travel landscape.
More details: Royal Caribbean CruisesSamsung
Samsung’s Q4 2024 report revealed a 4% revenue dip despite strong semiconductor growth. The company is focusing on innovation, sustainability, and strategic market diversification to counterbalance declining consumer electronics revenue and rising operational costs amid intense competition and geopolitical challenges.
More details: SamsungSherwin-Williams
In Q4 2024, Sherwin-Williams posted 10% EPS growth with low single-digit sales increases and announced aggressive expansion plans (8,100 new stores in 2025). Its investments in digital capabilities and operational efficiency position it well for future growth, despite challenges from foreign exchange risks and industry-specific hurdles.
More details: Sherwin-WilliamsSouthwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines’ Q4 2024 results showcased an 8% increase in RASM, supported by robust operational efficiency and strategic investments. The company’s ambitious shareholder plans, including $2.25 billion in share repurchases for 2025, underline its focus on balancing cost management with growth, despite challenges such as rising CASM and conservative fleet expansion.
More details: Southwest AirlinesStarbucks
Starbucks reported Q1 2025 revenue of $9.4 billion amid a 4% decline in global comparable store sales. While the company continues to expand with 377 new store openings and benefits from strong brand recognition and rewards program growth, it faces challenges with declining margins and pressure from shifting consumer preferences.
More details: StarbucksT-Mobile US Inc.
T-Mobile’s Q4 2024 results highlighted robust performance with over 8% growth in postpaid service revenue, record net additions, and a 3% increase in ARPU. With strong free cash flow of $17 billion and strategic investments in 5G and broadband expansion, the company continues to reinforce its market leadership amid competitive and capital-intensive pressures.
More details: T-Mobile US Inc.Tesla
Tesla’s Q4 2024 earnings call revealed record production numbers, yet also flagged declining automotive margins. While the company’s technological prowess and market-leading position in EVs remain strong, production constraints and rising competition necessitate strategic moves in AI, energy storage, and new model launches to secure future growth.
More details: TeslaTractor Supply Company
Tractor Supply Company delivered a 3.1% rise in Q4 sales along with record customer engagement. The company’s strategic store expansions, robust digital sales, and strong operating cash flow underscore its resilience, even as it faces challenges with declining margins in discretionary categories and competitive pressures in evolving retail landscapes.
More details: Tractor Supply CompanyV.F. Corporation
V.F. Corporation’s Q3 2024 report noted a 2% revenue rise, with significant brand growth from Timberland (up 12%) and ongoing efforts in operational transformation. While challenges in direct-to-consumer channels and declining sales in certain brands (like Vans) persist, the company is focused on leveraging marketing investments and e-commerce expansion to drive future growth.
More details: V.F. CorporationVisa
Visa’s Q1 2024 earnings reported 12% year-over-year net revenue growth and an 8% increase in payments volume. With strong digital payment solutions and strategic alliances underpinning its performance, Visa continues to drive innovation despite rising operating expenses and challenges from cybersecurity and regulatory risks.
More details: VisaWhirlpool Corporation
Whirlpool’s Q4 2024 results highlighted a 170bps EBIT margin improvement, $4.57 EPS, and $300 million in cost savings, accompanied by over 100 new product launches. The company is actively managing costs and driving innovation amid challenges such as declining North American sales and debt obligations, while pursuing opportunities in emerging markets, sustainability, and smart appliance technologies.
More details: Whirlpool Corporation
Looking Ahead – What to Expect This Week
This week’s earnings season promises fresh insights into evolving market dynamics, with a strong focus on technology, consumer behavior, and operational innovation. Keep an eye on the following companies as they update the market. Investors remain cautiously optimistic as companies across sectors aim to capitalize on stabilizing conditions, with a focus on resilient demand and strategic execution to drive future growth.
Sign up for alerts on all or any of these companies at www.broadmind.ai
Monday, Feb 3
Tyson Foods:
Analysts will assess performance across beef, pork, and chicken segments amid supply constraints and disease risks, while evaluating whether cost cuts and margin improvements can be sustained.
Tuesday, Feb 4
Alphabet (Google):
Expect updates on robust core ad revenues, accelerating Google Cloud growth, and how new AI strategies are enhancing products while managing costs.PepsiCo:
Investors will probe if aggressive price hikes are beginning to dent volumes and whether strategic initiatives in innovation and emerging markets can reinvigorate growth.PayPal:
Under its new CEO, guidance will focus on a transformation roadmap aimed at boosting user engagement, refining monetization, and sharpening competitive positioning.Spotify:
Look for insights on sustaining premium subscriber growth, further margin improvements, and diversifying revenue through podcasts and digital initiatives.Fast Retailing (Uniqlo):
Key discussion points include the recovery in China, strong performance in Japan, and progress on global expansion with innovative product strategies.Chipotle Mexican Grill:
Analysts expect an update on continued same-store sales momentum, rapid restaurant expansion (especially Chipotlanes), and how the company is managing cost pressures.Mondelez International:
The focus will be on balancing pricing with volume, driving growth in emerging markets, and leveraging innovation to offset rising input costs.Nintendo:
Investors will be keen to hear on hardware sales trends, potential hints of a next-generation console, and strategies to capitalize on its strong game and IP portfolio.Ferrari N.V.:
Guidance will likely cover the strength of its multi-year order backlog, success of new high-margin models, and progress on its roadmap for electrification.Diageo:
Expect discussion on whether consumer demand for premium spirits can withstand economic pressures, alongside any adjustments to growth targets and portfolio strategy.
Wednesday, Feb 5
Costco Wholesale:
Analysts will focus on membership-driven sales trends, the impact of a recent fee increase, and margin performance as the company continues its global expansion.Toyota Motor Corporation:
Key themes include details on Toyota’s accelerated EV roadmap, production recovery post-supply-chain issues, and the viability of its multi-pathway strategy.Walt Disney Company:
Updates will center on progress toward profitable streaming with Disney+, performance trends in theme parks, and strategic options for traditional media assets.Uber Technologies:
Expect insights into robust rideshare demand, evolving delivery economics, and new high-margin revenue streams from advertising and subscription services.GSK plc:
Analysts will scrutinize vaccine performance, progress in its pharmaceutical pipeline, and strategies to counter competitive pressures in key therapeutic areas.Aflac Inc.:
The focus will be on performance trends in Japan and the U.S., evolving product offerings, and strategies to navigate industry conditions amid demographic shifts.Allstate Corporation:
Investors will look for updates on auto insurance profitability improvements, customer retention strategies, and how the company is managing catastrophe exposure.Yum! Brands:
Expect a review of same-store sales performance across flagship brands, digital sales and delivery growth, and updates on franchise health and unit expansion.
Thursday, Feb 6
Amazon.com:
Guidance will emphasize AWS cloud revenue and AI integration, solid e-commerce performance, and sustained strength in its advertising business.L’Oréal S.A.:
Analysts will be interested in recovery trends in China, performance across its diverse divisions, and continued success in driving online and digital engagement.Kenvue:
As a newly independent entity, Kenvue is expected to discuss the impact of aggressive price increases on volumes, brand performance, and its strategy for post-spinoff efficiency.The Hershey Company:
Investors will examine whether higher prices are affecting demand, how the company is mitigating margin pressures from rising input costs, and progress in expanding its snacking portfolio.
Friday, Feb 7
Honda Motor Co.:
Key updates will cover Honda’s revised EV plans and partnerships, current automotive sales performance across key regions, and progress in its dominant motorcycle segment.
Vendor Opportunity Analysis
By analyzing the earnings calls of major companies we have identified signals of corporate intent to invest and grow the following business areas. Understand the context of these opportunities by researching each company at - www.broadmind.ai
Key Opportunities by Company
AB Electrolux
Digital Marketing: Comprehensive campaigns to elevate brand presence
Marketing Efficiency: Advanced analytics tools to optimize campaign performance
Apple Inc
Content & Store Design: Original content creation for Apple TV+ and design/layout expertise for new Apple Stores
Consulting & Research: Strategic consulting, market research, and localization services for global initiatives
Colgate-Palmolive
Advertising & Creative Campaigns: Advanced advertising technology solutions and creative marketing services to drive impactful campaigns
Consumer Insights: Market research and consumer insights to inform targeted marketing strategies
Deckers Outdoor Corporation
Brand Storytelling: Innovative marketing and multimedia production services to enhance brand narratives
Event & Design Services: Specialized event planning and collaborative branding/design for co-branded product lines
Dolby Laboratories, Inc.
Integrated Advertising: Advertising solutions that enhance interactivity and personalization
Content Creation: Compelling content development to showcase cutting-edge technology
General Motors
Digital Advertising & Consulting: Targeted digital advertising campaigns and strategic consulting to bolster consumer engagement
Brand Strategy: Sustainable branding strategies to communicate eco-friendly initiatives
JetBlue Airlines
Data-Driven Marketing: Data-driven strategies to enhance customer engagement and collaborative branding initiatives
Consulting Services: Advisory support for partnerships and co-branded customer experiences
Kimberly-Clark
Performance Marketing: Enhanced digital advertising solutions and performance marketing automation
Creative Consulting: Data-driven creative campaigns to boost brand loyalty and consumer engagement
Las Vegas Sands
Targeted Campaigns: Tailored digital marketing campaigns aimed at premium segments
CRM & Consumer Insights: Systems and research to foster personalized guest experiences
Levi Strauss & Co
Integrated Marketing: Campaigns that leverage high-profile partnerships and experiential pop-up initiatives
Design & Analytics: Store design expertise and analytics platforms to measure campaign performance
Logitech
Digital Campaigns: Targeted digital marketing efforts to amplify brand presence
Experiential Marketing: Immersive and experiential marketing strategies for new product launches
LVMH Moët Hennessy
Digital Engagement: Innovative digital marketing platforms powered by data analytics and targeted social media campaigns
Creative Experiences: Dynamic content creation and immersive event experiences that align with luxury branding
Novartis
Promotional Support: Tailored marketing and promotional consulting to support new therapy launches
Market Research: In-depth market research to refine strategic marketing approaches
Rémy Cointreau SA
Personalized Marketing: Advanced customer segmentation, programmatic advertising tools, and content creation services
Omnichannel Solutions: Consulting for unified digital and physical retail experiences
Royal Caribbean Cruises (RCL)
Marketing Automation: Advanced marketing automation and predictive analytics to drive targeted digital media campaigns
Customer Engagement: Integrated consulting and design services to create personalized guest experiences
Samsung
Campaign Integration: Integrated marketing campaigns and creative design services for user interface and product aesthetics
Brand Consulting: Consulting support to refine innovative retail strategies and consumer insights
Sherwin-Williams
Digital Marketing: Innovative digital marketing solutions to boost sales force performance and customer interactions
Design Consulting: Collaborative design services for new headquarters and R&D facility branding
Southwest Airlines
Integrated Strategies: Comprehensive advertising and marketing strategies that elevate brand communications
Consulting Support: Market research and product development consulting to refine premium offerings
Starbucks
Campaign Innovation: Targeted digital marketing campaigns and creative strategies for product launches
Customer Engagement: Consulting services to enhance loyalty programs and drive consumer engagement
T-Mobile US Inc.
Digital Transformation: Advanced digital marketing solutions and AI-driven personalization tools
Experiential Design: Integrated omnichannel design and consulting services to elevate the shopping journey
Tesla
Data-Driven Marketing: Advanced marketing platforms offering deep insights into customer behavior
Retail Innovation: Immersive AR/VR experiences designed to enhance the retail environment
Tractor Supply Company
Retail Media: Innovative retail media strategies and exclusive brand development consulting
Market Research: In-depth consumer insights to support targeted marketing initiatives
V.F. Corporation
Digital Marketing Solutions: Innovative campaigns to enhance brand visibility for iconic labels
Influencer & Retail Consulting: Influencer management platforms and retail technology strategies for omni-channel optimization
Visa
Targeted Campaigns: Specialized marketing services and support for co-branded credit/debit card programs
Consumer Insights: Retail consultation and market research services focused on consumer payment behaviors
Whirlpool
Launch Marketing: Advanced marketing technology and creative services to elevate new product launches
Consulting & Analytics: Consumer insight platforms and market analysis tools for strategic decision-making
www.broadmind.ai