Limited brands (LB) 4Q15 Results: Beats Forecasts, Outlook Below Consensus

Executive Summary

• L Brands reported 4Q15 revenue of $4.40 billion, up 8.1% year over year and slightly above the consensus estimate of $4.37 billion.
• The company reported EPS of $2.15 for the quarter, up 13.7% year over year and beating the consensus estimate of $2.05. Guidance called for EPS of $2.05. The upside was driven by sales at Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works, which were up 8.6% and 6.7%, respectively.
• The company provided diluted EPS guidance for 2016 of $3.90–$4.10, below the consensus estimate of $4.19. L Brands expects 1Q16 diluted EPS of $0.50–$0.55, short of the $0.65 consensus estimate. Forecasts include negative impacts related to foreign currency exchange rates.