CarMax: Tariffs Support Q1 But Credit Headwinds Persist (Upgrade)

  • CarMax delivered a strong Q1 beat, driven by higher volumes and record margins, but some gains may be temporary due to tariff pull-forward. Financing profits remain pressured by rising credit losses, and I expect ongoing provisioning to weigh on future earnings. CarMax shares now trade near my fair value target, reflecting a balanced risk/reward after recent underperformance and improved cost controls.