Investing.com -- JD Sports Fashion plc (LON:JD) (NASDAQ:JD) reported better than expected results on Tuesday, driven by a stronger-than-expected performance in both the European and North American markets.
“At first sight we think the results show how JD's multi-brand offer is able to offset Nike (NYSE:NKE) weakness, with stronger than expected US and Europe margins. This should also give investors more confidence that JD/ can achieve its FY25 PBT guidance,” said analysts from RBC Capital Markets in a note.
Stronger-than-expected margins in the U.S. and Europe helped JD Sports exceed forecasts, supporting its full-year 2025 profit before tax guidance.
For H1, the company reported sales of £5 billion, marginally surpassing expectations, with an organic year-on-year growth of 6.4%.
PBT stood at £406 million, beating the consensus estimate of £385 million, with EPS reported at 5.15p, which also edged past forecasts of 5.10p.
JD Sports reported growth in North America and Europe, where profits exceeded expectations, while the UK and APAC regions performed in line with forecasts.
JD Sports maintained its full-year 2025 PBT guidance of £955-1035 million, in line with the consensus estimate of £977 million.
The company said that foreign exchange impacts would reduce H2 PBT by £20 million, after a £6 million hit in H1. Hibbett, a recent acquisition, is expected to contribute £25 million to PBT in H2.
The company's inventory levels have risen by 24% year-on-year, which can be attributed to both the acquisition of Hibbett and a seasonal inventory increase of £137 million.
This higher inventory position, while somewhat elevated, aligns with the company’s expansionary strategy. Net cash, excluding leases, amounted to £41 million at the end of H1, slightly below consensus projections.
JD Sports remains a key retail partner for major brands like Nike and Adidas (OTC:ADDYY), benefiting from its ability to attract urban and price-conscious customers. The company has opportunities to expand its customer base in the U.S. and improve its online presence, especially in Europe, RBC said.
Governance improvements are expected, though the rapid pace of expansion presents higher execution risks. Trading at about 12 times its CY24 estimated P/E, JD Sports is near the lower end of its historical range.