Estée Lauder (EL) Fiscal 4Q18 Results: Beats Estimates and Guides for Continued Above-Market Growth

Executive Summary

• Estée Lauder reported fiscal 4Q18 adjusted EPS of $0.61, beating consensus by a nickel and up 19.9% year over year. Revenues were $3.30 billion, up 14.1% year over year and beating the consensus estimate of $3.25 billion.
• Skin Care remained the fastest-growing major segment, growing 29% as reported and benefiting from strength in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, travel retail and China.
• For the next fiscal year, the company expects adjusted net sales to grow 7%–8%, ahead of the 5%–6% growth expected for the global prestige beauty market, and for adjusted EPS of $4.62–$4.71.