Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.
What: Never underestimate the power of low expectations. Hanesbrands
So what: With investors all-consumed with worry over the rising cost of cotton prices, no one expected Hanesbrands to earn so much this year. And yes, management noted that its cotton costs were up, 60% higher than what it was paying at this time last year. But the company managed to push through price increases to offset its higher costs, and it kept profit growing.
Now what: Hanes is promising investors it will earn about $2.80 a share this year, giving the stock an 11 times ratio to its current stock price. That doesn't look awfully expensive on a projected 13.5% long-term grower like Hanes. Indeed, rival and Victoria's Secret owner Limited Brands
Whatever you think about Hanes, I'd say its results make Limited look decidedly unappealing.
Who will win the underwear wars? Add Limited Brands to your Watchlist.Now add Hanesbrands, too. Compare and contrast.