American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. operates as a multi-brand specialty retailer in the United States and internationally. The company provides jeans, apparel and accessories, and personal care products for women and men under the American Eagle brand; and intimates, apparel, activewear, and swim collections under the Aerie and OFFLINE by Aerie brands. It also offers menswear products under the Todd Snyder New York brand; and fashion clothing and accessories under the Unsubscribed brand. The company sells its products through own and licensed retail stores; concession-based shops-within-shops; and digital channels, such as www.ae.com, www.aerie.com, www.toddsnyder.com, and www.unsubscribed.com. American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. was founded in 1977 and is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

For American Eagle Outfitters, the valuation does not look expensive on earnings and revenue, but the fundamental picture is not strong enough to aggressively raise the target price. A P/E of 10.83 and a P/S of 0.53 are noticeably below the industry median, which supports the undervaluation argument; however, a P/FCF of 16.85 is already above the industry level and limits the re-rating potential. The multiple trend has generally improved compared with the peaks at the beginning of the period, but that improvement is already partially reflected in the market. Profitability looks mixed: ROE of 17.28, ROA of 6.88, and ROI of 21.16 are strong, but the operating margin of 6.01 and net margin of 4.97 remain below industry benchmarks, meaning earnings quality is not ideal. It is especially important that operating profit and EBITDA have declined relative to stronger quarters, and current TTM net income is only $24 million, which points to weak earnings durability. TTM revenue of $1.195 billion looks solid, but year to year there is noticeable volatility rather than a steady growth trend. The company’s balance sheet is fairly conservative: a debt/equity ratio of 0.05 and long-term debt of $85 million are very low, which reduces financial risk. At the same time, a quick ratio of 0.53 is weak and below the industry level, and cash on hand of $103 million does not look comfortable for a retail business with seasonality and working capital needs. The dividend yield of 0.47% has fallen noticeably compared with last year, so the dividend factor is not currently a strong support for the valuation. Equity and net worth are high relative to the industry, which confirms the resilience of the capital structure, but this does not offset the weakness in short-term liquidity and pressure on operating margins. Overall, the company looks financially stable and not overleveraged, but the quality of current cash flow and operating momentum is not convincing enough to raise the forecast. For an investor, this is more of a moderate value story with limited upside, where low multiples are partly justified by weaker margins and uneven earnings. Therefore, it makes sense to slightly lower the target, while maintaining a cautious view over the next 12 months.

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

Слабый индекс, незначительно упал. Уверенность быков остается на низком уровне.

Weak index, slightly down. Bullish confidence remains low.

Сильный индекс, незначительно упал. Рынок не поддерживает быков.

Strong index, slightly down. The market does not support the bulls.

Средний индекс, незначительно упал. Отток средств из лонгов увеличился и находится на высоком уровне.

Medium index, slightly down. The outflow of funds from longs has increased and is at a high level.

AEO looks inexpensive on P/E and P/S, but weak margins, low liquidity, and a higher P/FCF limit revaluation potential.

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) closed down -0.58% on Thursday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed down -0.60%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed down -1.08%. E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) fell -0.61%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) fell -1.07%.
Stock indexes settled lower on Thursday, with the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrials dropping to 5-week lows. Soaring energy prices pushed global bond yields sharply higher on Thursday, weighing on stocks. WTI crude oil surged more than +6% on Thursday to a 3.5-month high amid fears that the US-Iran war will persist, increasing inflation risks and prompting the world’s central banks to keep raising interest rates. The 10-year UK Gilt yield jumped to a 19-year high today of 5.38%, the 10-year German Bund yield surged to a 17-year high of 3.51%, and the 10-year T-note yield rose to a 2.75-year high of 4.96%.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
Stocks added to their losses on Thursday, and T-note yields climbed further after US Aug PPI rose more than expected, signaling persistent price pressures, and after weekly jobless claims remained low, signaling labor market strength.
US weekly initial unemployment claims fell -1,000 to 206,000, close to expectations of 205,000 and signaling a stable labor market.
US Aug PPI final demand rose +5.4% y/y, stronger than expectations of +5.3% y/y. Aug PPI ex-food and energy rose +4.6% y/y, right on expectations.
US Aug existing home sales fell -2.0% m/m to a 14-month low of 3.98 million, right on expectations.
The escalating trade war between the US and Canada is also weighing on market sentiment. On Tuesday, Canada imposed tariffs of 15% to 50% on hundreds of US goods in retaliation for the US action last month to impose 50% tariffs on $20 billion of imports from Canada. The US responded by moving to block imports of some Canadian products and slapping new tariffs on others, as well as seeking to bar Canadian companies from selling to US government contractors.
Oct WTI crude oil prices (CLV26) surged more than +6% on Thursday to a 3.5-month high. Crude prices are climbing after Iran said that it is ready for a more intense war and will escalate counterstrikes if the US continues attacking its territory and infrastructure. The prospect of a lengthy conflict that limits crude supplies from the Middle East is underpinning crude oil prices. Crude oil prices added to their gains on Thursday after Saudi Arabia told OPEC that its crude production in August fell to 6.238 million bpd, the lowest since 1990.
The markets are discounting a 75% chance of a +25 bp rate hike at the next FOMC meeting on September 15-16.
Overseas stock markets settled mixed on Thursday. The Euro Stoxx 50 dropped to a 6-week low and closed down -0.67%. China's Shanghai Composite closed down -0.43%. Japan's Nikkei-225 Stock Average closed up +0.20%.
Interest Rates
December 10-year T-notes (ZNZ6) closed down by -23 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield rose +10.7 bp to 4.948%. T-notes tumbled to a 2.75-year nearest futures low on Thursday, and the 10-year T-note yield rose to a 2.75-year high of 4.963%. T-notes sold off as crude oil prices surged, which boosted inflation expectations. WTI crude oil rose more than +6% on Thursday to a 3.5-month high, lifting the 10-year breakeven inflation rate to a 3.25-month high of 2.419%.
On the positive side for T-notes was the decline in US Aug existing home sales to a 14-month low. T-notes also found support on strong demand for the Treasury’s $22 billion auction of 30-year T-bonds that had a bid-to-cover ratio of 2.61, well above the 10-auction average of 2.40.
European government bond yields moved sharply higher on Thursday. The 10-year German bund yield jumped to a 17-year high of 3.508% and finished up +5.7 bp to 3.501%. The 10-year UK gilt yield soared to a 19-year high of 5.376% and finished up +11.2 bp to 5.374%.
The ECB, as expected, raised the deposit facility rate by 25 bp to 2.50% and said inflation will stay above 2% for an "extended period."
The ECB raised its 2026 Eurozone GDP forecast to +0.9% from a prior forecast of +0.8%, and kept its 2026 inflation ex-food and energy forecast unchanged at 2.5%.
Markets are discounting a 97% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at the ECB’s next meeting on October 29.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks retreated on Thursday, pressuring the broader market. CoreWeave (CRWV), Intel (INTC), and Lam Research (LRCX) closed down more than -5%, and Micron Technology (MU) and Western Digital (WDC) closed down more than -4%. Also, ARM Holdings (ARM), SanDisk (SNDK), Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), KLA Corp (KLAC), Marvell Technology (MRVL), and Applied Materials (AMAT) closed down more than -3%, and Nvidia(NVDA), ASML Holding NV (ASML), and Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) closed down more than -2%.
Copper-producing stocks are falling today, with copper prices down more than -4% after Reuters reported that the White House has not yet made a decision on refined copper tariffs as it weighs concerns of higher prices raising manufacturing costs against the potential benefits of encouraging more domestic mining. Southern Copper (SCCO) closed down more than -7%, and Freeport-McMoRan (FCX) closed down more than -6%. Also, Rio Tinto Plc (RIO) closed down more than -4%, and Newmont Corp (NEM) closed down more than -2%.
Home builders and suppliers moved lower on Thursday after the 10-year T-note yield jumped to a 2.75-year high, pushing up mortgage rates and weighing on housing demand. Lennar (LEN), KB Home (KBH), and Builders Firstsource (BLDR) closed down more than -3%. Also, DR Horton (DHI) and Pulte Group (PHM) closed down more than -2%, and Toll Brothers (TOL) and Home Depot (HD) closed down more than -1%.
Cooper Cos (COO) closed down more than -14% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q3 net sales of $1.07 billion, below the consensus of $1.10 billion, and cutting its full-year revenue forecast to $4.23 billion to $4.25 billion from a previous forecast of $4.29 billion to $4.32 billion, weaker than the consensus of $4.31 billion.
American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) closed down more than -13% after reporting Q2 comparable sales rose +6.00%, weaker than the consensus of +6.47%.
FactSet Research Systems (FDS) closed down more than -5% after OpenAI said it’s releasing ChatGPT for Financial Services, a new tool for investment bankers and equity researchers.
AeroVironment (AVAV) closed up more than +4% after reporting Q1 revenue of $480.5 million, stronger than the consensus of $455.8 million.
Apple (AAPL) closed up more than +3% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials after analysts were generally positive about the company’s new iPhone Duo, its first foldable phone.
Earnings Reports (9/11/2026)
Kroger Co/The (KR) and Rent the Runway Inc (RENT).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
More news from Barchart

Stocks Settle Lower as Surging Crude Prices Boost Fed Rate Hike Chances

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) is down -0.42% today, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is down -0.43%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is down -0.69%. E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) are down -0.40%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) are down -0.65%.
Stock indexes are under pressure today, with the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrials dropping to 5-week lows. Soaring energy prices are pushing global bond yields higher today, weighing on stocks. WTI crude oil is up more than +3% today at a 3.5-month high amid fears that the US-Iran war will persist, increasing inflation risks and prompting the world’s central banks to keep raising interest rates. The 10-year UK Gilt yield rose to a 19-year high today of 5.36%, the 10-year German Bund yield climbed to a 15-year high of 3.50%, and the 10-year T-note yield rose to a 2.75-year high of 4.93%.
Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.
Stocks added to their losses today, and T-note yields climbed further after US Aug PPI rose more than expected, signaling persistent price pressures, and after weekly jobless claims remained low, signaling labor market strength.
US weekly initial unemployment claims fell -1,000 to 206,000, close to expectations of 205,000 and signaling a stable labor market.
US Aug PPI final demand rose +5.4% y/y, stronger than expectations of +5.3% y/y. Aug PPI ex-food and energy rose +4.6% y/y, right on expectations.
US Aug existing home sales fell -2.0% m/m to a 14-month low of 3.98 million, right on expectations.
The escalating trade war between the US and Canada is also weighing on market sentiment. On Tuesday, Canada imposed tariffs of 15% to 50% on hundreds of US goods in retaliation for the US action last month to impose 50% tariffs on $20 billion of imports from Canada. The US responded by moving to block imports of some Canadian products and slapping new tariffs on others, as well as seeking to bar Canadian companies from selling to US government contractors.
Oct WTI crude oil prices (CLV26) are up more than +3% today at a 3.5-month high. Crude prices are climbing after Iran said that it is ready for a more intense war and will escalate counterstrikes if the US continues attacking its territory and infrastructure. The prospect of a lengthy conflict that limits crude supplies from the Middle East is underpinning crude oil prices. Crude oil prices added to their gains today after Saudi Arabia told OPEC that its crude production in August fell to 6.238 million bpd, the lowest since 1990.
The markets are discounting a 72% chance of a +25 bp rate hike at the next FOMC meeting on September 15-16.
Overseas stock markets are mixed today. The Euro Stoxx 50 dropped to a 6-week low and is down -0.42%. China's Shanghai Composite closed down -0.43%. Japan's Nikkei-225 Stock Average closed up +0.20%.
Interest Rates
December 10-year T-notes (ZNZ6) are down by -17 ticks. The 10-year T-note yield is up +7.3 bp to 4.914%. T-notes tumbled to a 2.75-year nearest futures low, and the 10-year T-note yield rose to a 2.75-year high of 4.928%. T-notes are under pressure from higher crude oil prices, which are boosting inflation expectations. WTI crude oil is up more than +3% today at a 3.5-month high, lifting the 10-year breakeven inflation rate to a 3.25-month high of 2.408%. Supply pressures are also weighing on T-notes as the Treasury will auction $22 billion of 30-year T-bonds later today. T-notes added to their losses today after Aug PPI rose more than expected.
European government bond yields are moving higher today. The 10-year German bund yield climbed to a new 15-year high of 3.495% and is up +4.8 bp to 3.492%. The 10-year UK gilt yield rose to a 19-year high of 5.362% and is up +9.7 bp to 5.358%.
The ECB, as expected, raised the deposit facility rate by 25 bp to 2.50% and said inflation will stay above 2% for an "extended period."
The ECB raised its 2026 Eurozone GDP forecast to +0.9% from a prior forecast of +0.8%, and kept its 2026 inflation ex-food and energy forecast unchanged at 2.5%.
Markets are discounting a 77% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at the ECB’s next meeting on October 29.
US Stock Movers
Chipmakers and AI-infrastructure stocks are sliding today, pressuring the broader market. CoreWeave (CRWV), Intel (INTC), and Lam Research (LRCX) are down more than -4%, and Micron Technology (MU), SanDisk (SNDK), and Western Digital (WDC) are down more than -3%. Also, ARM Holdings (ARM), Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), and Applied Materials (AMAT) are down more than -2%, and Nvidia(NVDA) is down more than 2% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials.
Copper-producing stocks are falling today, with copper prices down more than -4% after Reuters reported that the White House has not yet made a decision on refined copper tariffs as it weighs concerns of higher prices raising manufacturing costs against the potential benefits of encouraging more domestic mining. Freeport-McMoRan (FCX) is down more than -7%, and Southern Copper (SCCO) is down more than -6%. Also, Rio Tinto Plc (RIO) is down more than -4%, and Newmont Corp (NEM) is down more than -2%.
Home builders and suppliers are retreating today after the 10-year T-note yield jumped to a 2.75-year high, pushing up mortgage rates and weighing on housing demand. Lennar (LEN) is down more than -4%, and DR Horton (DHI), Pulte Group (PHM), KB Home (KBH), and Builders Firstsource (BLDR) are down more than -3%. Also, Toll Brothers (TOL) is down more than -2%.
AeroVironment (AVAV) is up more than +10% to lead drone makers higher after reporting Q1 revenue of $480.5 million, stronger than the consensus of $455.8 million. Also, Red Cat Holdings (RCAT) is up more than +3%, and Defiance Drone and Modern Warfare ETF (JEDI), Aevex Corp (AVEX), Unusual Machines (UMAC), and Kratos Defense & Security Solutions (KTOS) are up more than +2%.
Cybersecurity stocks are climbing today, a supportive factor for stocks. Fortinet (FTNT) and Okta (OKTA) are up more than +2%, and CrowdStrike Holdings (CRWD), Palo Alto Networks (PANW), and SentinelOne (S) are up more than +1%.
American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) is down more than -14% after reporting Q2 comparable sales rose +6.00%, weaker than the consensus of +6.47%.
Cooper Cos (COO) is down more than -13% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q3 net sales of $1.07 billion, below the consensus of $1.10 billion, and cutting its full-year revenue forecast to $4.23 billion to $4.25 billion from a previous forecast of $4.29 billion to $4.32 billion, weaker than the consensus of $4.31 billion.
Driven Brands Holdings (DRVN) is down more than -3% after Bank of America Global Research double-downgraded the stock to underperform from buy with a price target of $12.
Kymera Therapeutics (KYMR) is up more than +1% after Wolfe Research upgraded the stock to outperform from peer perform with a price target of $180.
Earnings Reports (9/10/2026)
Adobe Inc (ADBE), Copart Inc (CPRT), Macy's Inc (M), Oracle Corp (ORCL).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.

Stocks Retreat as 10-year T-note Yield Reaches New 2.75-year High

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. AEO posted second-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings of 79 cents per share, up 75.6% year over year and above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 21 cents by 276.2%. Net revenues rose 7.5% to $1.38 billion and beat the consensus mark of $1.37 billion by 1%.
The earnings beat was aided by tariff-refund benefits, while Aerie and OFFLINE momentum supported sales growth. Consolidated comparable sales increased 6%, and American Eagle showed sequential improvement from the first quarter.
American Eagle’s shares have lost 8.5% in the past three months compared with the industry’s 17.3% decline.
AEO's Brand Sales Show Uneven Momentum
Aerie revenues increased 25% year over year to $535.8 million, while comparable sales advanced 19%. Management cited broad-based strength across channels and categories, including core apparel, intimates and activewear. OFFLINE also benefited from demand for Cloud Fleece, sports bras and bottoms.
American Eagle brand revenues rose 0.7% to $805.9 million, but comparable sales declined 1%. Men's delivered its fourth consecutive quarter of positive comps. Women's fashion bottoms and newer denim fits gained traction, though the company is still rebalancing older and seasonal inventory.
We had expected Aerie revenues to grow 19.4% year over year to $512.5 million, while AE revenues to dip 1% to $792.1 million.
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
American Eagle's Margins Get Refund Boost
Gross profit climbed 34.4% year over year to $672.1 million, while gross margin expanded 980 basis points to 48.7%. A net $179 million tariff-refund benefit in gross profit contributed 1,300 basis points to the margin expansion. Merchandise margins deleveraged 330 basis points, with Aerie improvement offset by American Eagle markdowns.
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased 19% to $408.4 million and rose 290 basis points, as a percentage of sales, to 29.6%. The quarter included $18 million of tariff refund-related incentive compensation expense. The remaining increase primarily reflected planned advertising investments.
Operating income rose 105.1% year over year to $211.4 million, while operating margin increased 730 basis points to 15.3%. The quarter included a $161 million net operating income benefit from tariff refunds.
American Eagle's Balance Sheet Shows Inventory Build
This Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) company ended the quarter with $148 million in cash and cash equivalents. Total liquidity, including the revolver, was $783 million. Merchandise inventory was $817.9 million, up 13.9% year over year, while units increased 9%.
Capital expenditures were $66 million in the quarter. The company also returned $21 million to shareholders through its quarterly cash dividend of 12.5 cents per share.
AEO's Q3 Guide Points to Continued Aerie Growth
For the fiscal third quarter, AEO expects comparable sales growth in the mid-to-high single digits. Management sees Aerie and OFFLINE comps in the high teens to 20% range, while American Eagle is expected to be approximately flat.
Gross margin is projected to be roughly flat year over year, with SG&A expenses rising in the high-single digits. Operating income is forecast between $110 million and $115 million.
American Eagle's Fiscal 2026 Outlook Includes Refunds
For fiscal 2026, the company expects comparable sales to increase in the mid-single digits and gross margin to rise year over year. SG&A expenses are projected to grow in the low-double digits, while depreciation and amortization is expected to be about $215 million.
Operating income is forecast between $540 million and $550 million, inclusive of tariff-refund benefits, with a weighted average share count in the low 170 million range. Capital expenditures are expected between $250 million and $260 million.
More Key Picks in Retail
FIGS, Inc. FIGS is an apparel company focused on the healthcare industry. Its offerings include lab coats, jackets, footwear, bags, socks and other accessories used by healthcare professionals. The company carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for FIGS’ current financial-year earnings and sales suggests growth of 89.5% and 18.2%, respectively, from the year-ago actuals. FIGS delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 201.8%.
Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. BOOT is the largest lifestyle retailer in the United States, specializing in western and work-related footwear, apparel and accessories. The company also carries a Zacks Rank of 2 at present.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Boot Barn’s current fiscal-year earnings and sales suggests growth of 22.6% and 15.7%, respectively, from the year-ago actuals. BOOT delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 11.4%.
Fossil Group, Inc. FOSL is involved in designing, marketing and distributing consumer fashion accessories. It also carries a Zacks Rank of 2.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Fossil Group’s current fiscal-year earnings suggests growth of 96.7% from the year-ago actuals. FOSL delivered an earnings surprise of 55.2% in the last reported quarter.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
FIGS, Inc. (FIGS) : Free Stock Analysis Report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).

American Eagle Q2 Earnings Beat on Tariff Refunds, Aerie Strength

Skip to main content
Founded in 1993 in Alexandria, VA., by brothers David and Tom Gardner, The Motley Fool is a multimedia financial-services company dedicated to building the world's greatest investment community. Reaching millions of people each month through its website, books, newspaper column, radio show, television appearances, and subscription newsletter services, The Motley Fool champions shareholder values and advocates tirelessly for the individual investor. The company's name was taken from Shakespeare, whose wise fools both instructed and amused, and could speak the truth to the king -- without getting their heads lopped off.
© 2026, Nasdaq, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
My Quotes

American Eagle (AEO) Q2 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

(RTTNews) - American Eagle Outfitters Inc. (AEO) announced earnings for its second quarter that Increased, from last year
The company's earnings came in at $134.08 million, or $0.79 per share. This compares with $77.63 million, or $0.45 per share, last year.
The company's revenue for the period rose 7.5% to $1.380 billion from $1.284 billion last year.
American Eagle Outfitters Inc. earnings at a glance (GAAP) :
-Earnings: $134.08 Mln. vs. $77.63 Mln. last year. -EPS: $0.79 vs. $0.45 last year. -Revenue: $1.380 Bln vs. $1.284 Bln last year.

American Eagle Outfitters Inc. Profit Advances In Q2

For the quarter ended July 2026, American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) reported revenue of $1.38 billion, up 7.5% over the same period last year. EPS came in at $0.79, compared to $0.45 in the year-ago quarter.
The reported revenue compares to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.37 billion, representing a surprise of +0.99%. The company delivered an EPS surprise of +276.19%, with the consensus EPS estimate being $0.21.
While investors scrutinize revenue and earnings changes year-over-year and how they compare with Wall Street expectations to determine their next move, some key metrics always offer a more accurate picture of a company's financial health.
As these metrics influence top- and bottom-line performance, comparing them to the year-ago numbers and what analysts estimated helps investors project a stock's price performance more accurately.
Here is how American Eagle performed in the just reported quarter in terms of the metrics most widely monitored and projected by Wall Street analysts:
Number of stores - AE Brand: 802 versus the four-analyst average estimate of 801.
Number of stores - Total (EOP): 1,167 versus 1,181 estimated by four analysts on average.
Number of stores - Aerie stand-alone (incl. OFFL/NE): 335 versus 348 estimated by four analysts on average.
Comparable store sales: 6% versus 6.7% estimated by three analysts on average.
Comparable store sales - American Eagle Outfitters: -1% versus -0.7% estimated by three analysts on average.
Gross square footage - Total: 7.26 Msq ft versus the three-analyst average estimate of 7.30 Msq ft.
Comparable store sales - Aerie: 19% versus the three-analyst average estimate of 19.6%.
Number of stores - Unsubscribed: 7 versus 8 estimated by two analysts on average.
Number of stores - Todd Snyder: 23 compared to the 23 average estimate based on two analysts.
Total net revenue- Aerie: $535.82 million versus the four-analyst average estimate of $524.35 million. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of +24.9%.
Total net revenue- American Eagle: $805.88 million versus $794.27 million estimated by four analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a +0.7% change.
Total net revenue- Other: $38.67 million versus the three-analyst average estimate of $44.52 million.
Shares of American Eagle have returned -0.8% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1% change. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), indicating that it could outperform the broader market in the near term.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report

Here's What Key Metrics Tell Us About American Eagle (AEO) Q2 Earnings

American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.79 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.21 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.45 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +276.19%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this teen clothing retailer would post earnings of $0.11 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.14, delivering a surprise of +27.27%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates four times.
American Eagle, which belongs to the Zacks Retail - Apparel and Shoes industry, posted revenues of $1.38 billion for the quarter ended July 2026, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.99%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $1.28 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates four times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
American Eagle shares have lost about 34.7% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 12.1%.
What's Next for American Eagle?
While American Eagle has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for American Eagle was favorable. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to outperform the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $0.56 on $1.42 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $1.76 on $5.81 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Retail - Apparel and Shoes is currently in the top 30% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
One other stock from the same industry, Zumiez (ZUMZ), is yet to report results for the quarter ended July 2026. The results are expected to be released on September 10.
This clothing retailer is expected to post quarterly loss of $0.14 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -133.3%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days.
Zumiez's revenues are expected to be $212.12 million, down 1% from the year-ago quarter.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report

American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) Beats Q2 Earnings and Revenue Estimates

Looking at options trading activity among components of the Russell 3000 index, there is noteworthy activity today in American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (Symbol: AEO), where a total volume of 41,587 contracts has been traded thus far today, a contract volume which is representative of approximately 4.2 million underlying shares (given that every 1 contract represents 100 underlying shares). That number works out to 81.1% of AEO's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 5.1 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $17 strike call option expiring September 18, 2026, with 4,780 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 478,000 underlying shares of AEO. Below is a chart showing AEO's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $17 strike highlighted in orange:
Chewy Inc (Symbol: CHWY) saw options trading volume of 54,736 contracts, representing approximately 5.5 million underlying shares or approximately 80.7% of CHWY's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 6.8 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $21.50 strike call option expiring September 11, 2026, with 3,477 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 347,700 underlying shares of CHWY. Below is a chart showing CHWY's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $21.50 strike highlighted in orange:
And Viking Therapeutics Inc (Symbol: VKTX) saw options trading volume of 13,605 contracts, representing approximately 1.4 million underlying shares or approximately 77.3% of VKTX's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 1.8 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $42 strike call option expiring September 25, 2026, with 2,434 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 243,400 underlying shares of VKTX. Below is a chart showing VKTX's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $42 strike highlighted in orange:
For the various different available expirations for AEO options, CHWY options, or VKTX options, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.
Further AEO Research:

Notable Wednesday Option Activity: AEO, CHWY, VKTX

The following companies are expected to report earnings after hours on 09/09/2026. Visit our Earnings Calendar for a full list of expected earnings releases.
The Cooper Companies, Inc. (COO)is reporting for the quarter ending July 31, 2026. The medical/dental supplies company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 7 analysts that follow the stock is $1.11. This value represents a 0.91% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year COO has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 2nd calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 10%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for COO is 14.62 vs. an industry ratio of 22.10.
AeroVironment, Inc. (AVAV)is reporting for the quarter ending July 31, 2026. The aerospace and defense company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 6 analysts that follow the stock is $0.22. This value represents a 31.25% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2027 Price to Earnings ratio for AVAV is 46.49 vs. an industry ratio of 33.20, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (AEO)is reporting for the quarter ending July 31, 2026. The retail (shoe) company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 6 analysts that follow the stock is $0.21. This value represents a 53.33% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year AEO has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 2nd calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 27.27%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2027 Price to Earnings ratio for AEO is 9.78 vs. an industry ratio of 10.10.
Lesaka Technologies, Inc. (LSAK)is reporting for the quarter ending June 30, 2026. The technology services company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 1 analyst that follows the stock is $0.03. This value represents a 108.57% increase compared to the same quarter last year. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for LSAK is 150.67 vs. an industry ratio of 1.70, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Limoneira Co (LMNR)is reporting for the quarter ending July 31, 2026. The agriculture company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 3 analysts that follow the stock is $0.16. This value represents a 420.00% increase compared to the same quarter last year. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for LMNR is -33.40 vs. an industry ratio of 6.60.
Lakeland Industries, Inc. (LAKE)is reporting for the quarter ending July 31, 2026. The protection safety company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 1 analyst that follows the stock is $-0.02. This value represents a 105.56% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. The "days to cover" for this stock exceeds 21 days. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2027 Price to Earnings ratio for LAKE is -41.11 vs. an industry ratio of 16.40.
Skillsoft Corp. (SKIL)is reporting for the quarter ending July 31, 2026. The technology services company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 1 analyst that follows the stock is $0.54. This value represents a 14.89% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year SKIL has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 2nd calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 582.35%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2027 Price to Earnings ratio for SKIL is 2.22 vs. an industry ratio of 1.70, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Culp, Inc. (CULP)is reporting for the quarter ending July 31, 2026. The home furnishings company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 1 analyst that follows the stock is $0.44. This value represents a 2300.00% increase compared to the same quarter last year. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2027 Price to Earnings ratio for CULP is 10.06 vs. an industry ratio of 13.30.

After-Hours Earnings Report for September 9, 2026 : COO, AVAV, AEO, LSAK, LMNR, LAKE, SKIL, CULP

The Gap, Inc. GAP reported adjusted earnings of 52 cents per share for the second quarter of fiscal 2026, down 8.8% year over year but came above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 50 cents. Revenues of $3.65 billion declined 2% year over year and missed the consensus mark of $3.72 billion by 1.9%. Comparable sales fell 1%, while gross margin strength helped the company exceed profit expectations.
Gap delivered a 10% comparable-sales increase, while Old Navy declined 4% and Athleta fell 12%. Management highlighted disciplined pricing, inventory management and stronger execution at key brands as drivers of profitability.
As a result, Gap’s shares have jumped nearly 15% in after-hours trading yesterday. This Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock has dipped 0.8% in the past three months compared with the industry’s 9.5% decline.
GAP Expands Brand Momentum
Store sales decreased 3%, while online sales declined 1% and represented 35% of total net sales.
The Gap brand remained the strongest performer in the portfolio. Net sales reached $844 million, up 9% year over year, while comparable sales increased 10%. Management attributed the performance to culturally relevant storytelling and strength in destination categories such as denim, fleece, and kids and baby. Our model had expected Gap brand's sales of $833.9 million for the reported quarter.
The Gap, Inc. Price and Consensus
GAP Sees Mixed Brand Trends
Old Navy generated second-quarter net sales of $2.1 billion, down 4% year over year, with comparable sales also declining 4%. Management said weaker women’s seasonal assortments and an unexpected slowdown in traffic pressured results.
Banana Republic delivered improvement, with net sales of $478 million, up 1%, and comparable sales up 3%. The brand benefited from stronger assortment, marketing and storytelling, with balanced performance across men’s and women’s categories.
Athleta remained under pressure, with second-quarter net sales of $264 million declining 12% and comparable sales falling 12%. Management said the brand is focused on disciplined execution, improving inventory productivity and rebuilding customer engagement through stronger product and storytelling.
We had anticipated sales of $2.1 billion for Old Navy, $476.5 million for Banana Republic and $280.5 million for Athleta.
Gap Strengthens Margin Performance
Gap reported a gross margin of 52.8%, benefiting from adjustment related to the expected recovery of tariffs previously imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Adjusted gross margin, excluding this benefit, was 41.4%, up 20 basis points year over year.
Adjusted merchandise margin expanded 80 basis points, supported by the Gap brand and tariff mitigation strategies. However, higher promotional activity at Old Navy partially offset gains. Adjusted operating margin was 7.1%, while adjusted earnings per share came in at $0.52.
Gap Returns Cash to Shareholders
Gap ended the quarter with $2.5 billion in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments, while year-to-date net cash from operating activities totaled $550 million. Free cash flow reached $261 million year to date.
The company returned $262 million to shareholders during the quarter through share repurchases and dividends. Year to date, Gap has returned $726 million to shareholders, including $601 million of share repurchases and $125 million of dividends.
GAP Updates Fiscal 2026 Outlook
Gap updated its fiscal 2026 outlook, expecting full-year net sales growth of 1-1.5%, compared with the prior forecast of 1-2%. The company now expects Gap comparable sales growth in the high-single to low-double-digit range and Old Navy comparable sales to be flat to down 1%.
The company raised its adjusted operating margin outlook to 7.4-7.6% from 7.3-7.5% previously. Adjusted earnings per share guidance increased to $2.35-$2.45, supported by improved gross margin expectations and a lower weighted average share count following repurchase activity.
Key Stocks to Consider
We have highlighted three better-ranked stocks, namely, Target Corporation TGT, American Eagle Outfitters AEO and Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. BOOT.
Target offers guests fashionable, differentiated merchandise and everyday essentials at discounted prices. It currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Target’s current financial-year sales and EPS indicates growth of 4.4% and 11.4%, respectively, from the year-ago reported numbers. TGT delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 10.5%, on average.
American Eagle is a specialty retailer of casual apparel, accessories and footwear. The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
The consensus estimate for AEO’s current financial-year sales and EPS indicates growth of 5.7% and 17.3%, respectively, from the year-ago reported numbers. AEO delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 48.5%, on average.
Boot Barn is a leading lifestyle retailer in the United States, specializing in western and work-related footwear, apparel and accessories. It currently has a Zacks Rank of 2.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Boot Barn’s current financial-year sales and EPS is expected to rise 15.7% and 22.6%, respectively, from the year-ago reported figures. BOOT delivered a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 11.4%, on average.
Beyond Nvidia: AI's Second Wave Is Here
The AI revolution has already minted millionaires. But the stocks everyone knows about aren't likely to keep delivering the biggest profits. AI’s second wave is moving from infrastructure to implementation and these companies are at the forefront of this transition, positioned to become what Amazon and Google were to the internet era.
See Stocks Now >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

Options Strategies