Under Armour (NYSE:UA) (UAA) saw its stock surge 17.2% after the athletic apparel maker reported better-than-expected first-quarter fiscal 2025 results and raised part of its full-year outlook, signaling progress in its restructuring efforts.
The company posted adjusted earnings per share of $0.01, beating analyst estimates of a $0.08 loss. Revenue came in at $1.2 billion, surpassing the consensus forecast of $1.14 billion, despite declining 10% YoY.
Under Armour's gross margin improved 110 basis points to 47.5%, driven by lower discounting in direct-to-consumer sales and reduced product costs. This offset headwinds from unfavorable foreign currency impacts and channel mix.
"We are encouraged by early progress in our efforts to reconstitute a premium positioning for the Under Armour brand and pleased with our first quarter fiscal 2025 results that were ahead of expectations," said Under Armour President and CEO Kevin Plank.
The company updated its fiscal 2025 outlook, expecting revenue to decline at a low double-digit percentage rate. Adjusted operating income is projected to be $140 to $160 million, up from the prior $130 to $150 million range.
Under Armour also reported progress on its restructuring plan, recognizing $34 million in charges during the quarter out of an estimated $70 million to $90 million total.
The strong market reaction suggests investors are optimistic about Under Armour's turnaround efforts and improved profitability outlook, despite ongoing revenue challenges.
Reacting to the report, analysts at Evercore ISI said: "UAA’s F1Q report will likely be enough to be a positive stock catalyst today amid extremely high short interest and Street numbers likely to move slightly higher (UAA raised FY25 EPS guide to $0.19-$0.22 from $0.18-$0.21) after the significant cut 90 days ago."