Nike (NYSE:NKE) reported its fiscal first-quarter earnings, surpassing Wall Street’s expectations and showcasing resilience in the face of potential challenges. Nike stock surged over 9% following the earnings call, as executives emphasized strong consumer demand and allayed concerns about a slowdown in Greater China.

Key points from Nike’s results compared to estimates:

Revenue: $12.94 billion vs. estimated $12.99 billion and $12.69 billion in the same period the previous year.

Adjusted earnings per share (EPS): $0.94 vs. estimated $0.75 and $0.93 in the same period the previous year.

Gross margin estimate: 44.2% vs. estimated 43.7% and 44.3% in the same period the previous year.

Nike’s inventories decreased to $8.7 billion in the quarter, down 10% year-over-year, surpassing analysts’ expectations of $8.84 billion. The company’s direct-to-consumer sales, a closely monitored growth metric, reached $5.4 billion, reflecting a 6% increase from the same period the previous year.

Despite concerns and a recent stock decline, Nike displayed strength in its earnings report. Greater China’s revenue came in at $1.74 billion, slightly below expectations of $1.83 billion, partly due to China’s softer economic growth. However, Nike executives expressed confidence in China’s market and the brand’s position within it.

Nike’s report followed Foot Locker’s warning of a footwear business slowdown, which could affect Nike’s wholesale market. Still, Nike’s management noted that no retail partner represented a significant portion of its overall sales. The company reported flat wholesale revenue growth for the quarter, defying expectations of a 4% decline from the previous year.

Nike remains optimistic about its performance and consumer demand, particularly in China, despite macroeconomic uncertainties.

Featured Image: Unsplash @ Luis Felipe Lins

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