INTU, WDAY, DECK, ROST, DLTR, BURL, AAP, PDD, BKE | Q1 2025 Earnings Preview: May 22-23, 2025

On May 22-23, 2025, a diverse group of companies across technology, retail, and automotive sectors will release their Q1 2025 earnings. These reports will provide critical insights into corporate performance amid a global economy marked by trade tensions, policy uncertainty, and persistent inflation risks. With the International Monetary Fund projecting global growth at approximately 2.8% for 2025, down from earlier forecasts due to escalating trade barriers and geopolitical challenges, these earnings will serve as a barometer for corporate resilience and market trends.

Economic Backdrop

The global economic outlook for May 2025 is characterized by cautious optimism. The IMF projects global growth at 2.8% for 2025, with advanced economies growing at 1.8% and emerging markets at 4.2%. However, risks are tilted to the downside, primarily due to escalating trade tensions and policy uncertainty. Recent tariff announcements and geopolitical challenges have introduced volatility into financial markets. Global headline inflation is expected to decline to 4.2% in 2025, but services inflation continues to complicate monetary policy, with central banks likely maintaining higher interest rates. Consumer sentiment remains subdued, particularly in advanced economies, where concerns over rising costs and economic stability are prevalent. Against this backdrop, these earnings reports will reveal how companies are navigating these challenges.

Sector-by-Sector Analysis

Technology Sector

The technology sector, represented by Intuit (INTU), Workday (WDAY), and PDD Holdings (PDD), is a cornerstone of innovation, driving advancements in financial software, enterprise cloud applications, and e-commerce. These companies face challenges from trade tensions and competitive pressures but are poised to capitalize on AI and digital transformation trends.

• Intuit (INTU): Intuit has been delivering robust results through its subscription-based model and AI-driven products like TurboTax and QuickBooks. In its Q2 FY 2025 (ended January 31, 2025), Intuit reported revenue of $4.0 billion, up 17% year-over-year, and non-GAAP EPS of $2.50, surpassing estimates. For Q3 FY 2025 (ending April 30, 2025), analysts expect non-GAAP EPS of around $2.55 and revenue growth of 12-13%. Investors will focus on AI enhancements and growth in the Global Business Solutions Group, particularly the Online Ecosystem, projected to grow 20% for FY 2025.
   
• Workday (WDAY): Workday has been expanding its human capital management and financial management software solutions. In its Q4 FY 2025 (ended January 31, 2025), Workday reported total revenue of $2.211 billion, up 15% year-over-year, and subscription revenue of $2.040 billion, up 15.9%. For Q1 FY 2026 (ending April 30, 2025), analysts anticipate non-GAAP EPS of $1.80 and revenue of approximately $2.3 billion. Key areas include international expansion, AI-driven product advancements, and core financial wins.
   
• PDD Holdings (PDD): PDD Holdings, known for its Temu platform, has seen significant e-commerce growth. In Q4 2024, PDD reported revenue of $14.04 billion, up 123% year-over-year, driven by its global expansion and innovative marketing strategies. For Q1 2025, specific EPS forecasts are unavailable, but investors will watch for continued growth in key markets like the U.S. and Europe, as well as any regulatory developments in China that could impact operations.
   

Why It Matters: Technology earnings will highlight the sector’s ability to sustain innovation-driven growth amid economic uncertainty. Strong results could reinforce investor confidence in digital transformation, while weaker outcomes may signal caution in tech spending due to trade and inflation pressures.

Retail Sector

The retail sector, including Deckers Outdoor (DECK), Ross Stores (ROST), Dollar Tree (DLTR), Burlington Stores (BURL), and Buckle (BKE), faces challenges from inflation and shifting consumer behavior but benefits from value-driven models and omnichannel strategies.

• Deckers Outdoor (DECK): Deckers Outdoor, known for UGG and HOKA brands, has seen strong demand, particularly in direct-to-consumer channels. In Q3 FY 2025 (ended December 31, 2024), Deckers reported revenue of $1.56 billion, up 16% year-over-year. For Q4 FY 2025 (ending March 31, 2025), investors will look for updates on global expansion, product innovation, and supply chain resilience amid trade tensions.
   
• Ross Stores (ROST): Ross Stores has thrived with its off-price retail model, offering value to cost-conscious consumers. In Q4 FY 2024 (ended January 31, 2025), Ross reported revenue of $5.37 billion, up 7% year-over-year, with EPS of $1.59. For Q1 FY 2025 (ending April 30, 2025), analysts expect EPS of $1.45 and revenue growth of 5-7%. Investors will focus on same-store sales and margin trends, given inflation pressures.
   
• Dollar Tree (DLTR): Dollar Tree has been expanding its store base and product offerings. In Q4 FY 2024 (ended January 31, 2025), Dollar Tree reported revenue of $7.63 billion, up 3.9% year-over-year. For Q1 FY 2025, investors will watch for performance across its Dollar Tree and Family Dollar segments, as well as updates on supply chain improvements and digital initiatives.
   
• Burlington Stores (BURL): Burlington Stores has grown through store expansion and omnichannel enhancements. In Q4 FY 2024 (ended January 31, 2025), Burlington reported revenue of $3.34 billion, up 10% year-over-year. For Q1 FY 2025, investors will look for updates on new store openings, inventory management, and profitability amid rising costs.
   
• Buckle (BKE): Buckle, a specialty apparel retailer, has maintained a strong balance sheet. In Q4 FY 2024 (ended January 31, 2025), Buckle reported revenue of $109.7 million, slightly down year-over-year. For Q1 FY 2025, investors will focus on sales trends, inventory levels, and the company’s ability to attract younger consumers in a competitive market.
   

Why It Matters: Retail earnings reflect consumer confidence and spending power. Strong performances could indicate resilience in discretionary spending, while weaker results might highlight inflation’s impact on consumer budgets, particularly in value-driven retail segments.

Automotive/Retail Sector

Advance Auto Parts (AAP) operates in the automotive parts retail space, serving do-it-yourself customers and professional installers.

• Advance Auto Parts (AAP): Advance Auto Parts has faced challenges from supply chain disruptions and competitive pressures. In Q4 2024 (ended December 31, 2024), AAP reported revenue of $3.4 billion, down 0.3% year-over-year. For Q1 2025 (ending March 31, 2025), investors will look for signs of improvement in sales, cost-saving initiatives, and progress on its digital and omnichannel strategies to compete with rivals like AutoZone and O’Reilly Automotive.

Why It Matters: The automotive retail sector is sensitive to economic cycles and consumer spending on vehicle maintenance. AAP’s earnings will provide insights into consumer behavior regarding vehicle ownership and repair needs, as well as the sector’s ability to navigate supply chain and competitive challenges.

Investor Implications

These earnings reports will likely drive stock price movements and shape market sentiment. Strong performances and optimistic guidance could bolster confidence, while disappointing results may exacerbate volatility. Investors should:

• Review Primary Sources: Access earnings releases and conference calls on company websites.
• Analyze Guidance: Forward-looking statements will be critical for assessing future growth, especially given trade and inflation risks.
• Diversify Investments: Spreading risk across sectors can mitigate volatility, as technology and retail firms may face greater trade-related challenges, while consumer staples remain more stable.

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Key components of Tickeron's platform include:

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These tools are tailored to support various trading strategies, including day trading, swing trading, and long-term investing. By leveraging AI, Tickeron aims to democratize access to sophisticated trading analytics, enabling users to navigate financial markets with greater precision.

Conclusion

The Q1 2025 earnings reports on May 22-23, 2025, from INTU, WDAY, DECK, ROST, DLTR, BURL, AAP, PDD, and BKE are a pivotal moment for investors. Spanning technology, retail, and automotive sectors, these reports will provide a comprehensive view of corporate performance in a challenging economic environment. By focusing on key metrics, guidance, and sector trends, investors can make informed decisions to navigate the uncertainties ahead.

Disclaimers and Limitations