American Eagle Outfitters (NYSE: AEO) Fiscal 4Q18 Results: Revenues Up, Comps Up 23% at Aerie, Opening 60-70 Aerie Locations in 2019

Executive Summary

• American Eagle Outfitters reported fiscal 4Q18 revenues of $1.24 billion, lower than the consensus estimate of $1.26 billion, and up 1.3% year over year. The company reported 4Q18 EPS of $0.43, higher than the consensus estimate of $0.42 and exceeding the company’s guidance of $0.40-0.42, but lower than the year ago period.
• American Eagle’s fourth quarter comp sales rose 3%, marking the seventh consecutive quarter of comp increases. For the 2018 fiscal year, comparable sales grew 8%.
• In 1Q19, the company projects earnings per share of $0.19 to $0.21, lower than the consensus estimate of $0.24. AEO expects comparable sales to be in the positive low single digits.