Luxury Sector Faces a Challenging Q1: Bank of America’s Outlook

  • Introduction

    The luxury sector is bracing for a difficult earnings season, with Bank of America (BofA) forecasting a 1% revenue decline in the first quarter of 2025. This represents a three-percentage-point slowdown from the previous quarter and falls 3% below consensus estimates.

    Despite the tough market conditions, BofA suggests the sector may be nearing valuation support levels, with forward P/E ratios at 21x—near the lower end of the historical 20-25x range. However, the key catalysts for recovery remain uncertain, particularly with China’s economic outlook playing a major role in future growth.


    Key Challenges for the Luxury Sector

    1. Slower Organic Growth & Weak Fundamentals

    • BofA expects earnings estimates to be revised downward, reflecting sluggish consumer demand and weaker pricing power.

    • March showed no signs of improvement, casting doubt on a Q2 and H2 rebound.

    2. Foreign Exchange Headwinds

    • Unfavorable currency movements have negatively impacted European luxury firms that rely on international sales.

    3. Volatility in China’s Demand

    • Chinese luxury demand remains a wild card—any positive macroeconomic news could drive a sector-wide rally, but uncertainty persists.


    Company-Specific Outlook

    Expected Growth Leaders

    \ud83d\udcc8 Richemont (SIX:CFR) – Jewelry division may slow, but the company is expected to outperform peers.
    \ud83d\udcc8 Hermès (EPA:RMS) – Expected to return to double-digit growth in Q2.
    \ud83d\udcc8 Prada (OTCRDSY) – Likely to lead sector growth again.

    Potential Underperformers

    \ud83d\udcc9 Kering (EPARTP) – Expected to post the weakest Q1 results.
    \ud83d\udcc9 LVMH (EPA:MC) – Fashion & Leather division projected to decline 2.5%.
    \ud83d\udcc9 Burberry (LON:BRBY) & Hugo Boss (ETR:BOSSn) – BofA remains cautious on both brands.

    Companies With Sequential Growth Potential

    • Kering, Moncler, Hugo Boss, and Burberry could see a sharp rebound later in 2025 if macro conditions improve.


    Investment Takeaways & Valuation Considerations

    • Current valuations (P/E 21x) suggest downside support, but growth concerns keep volatility elevated.

    • Revenue growth must return to the historical 6-9% range for sustainable upside.

    • China remains a key demand driver—watch for policy changes or economic stimulus that could boost spending.

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    Conclusion

    The luxury sector faces short-term headwinds, but long-term valuation support could provide stability. Investors should closely monitor earnings revisions, China’s economic signals, and currency fluctuations before making investment decisions.