Ulta Beauty tops consumer discretionary gainers in Q3; MGM Resorts declines (BBY:NYSE)
The consumer discretionary sector underperformed in Q3 despite improved consumer spending, shedding nearly 8%. Ulta Beauty and Best Buy were top performers, driven by strong earnings and resilient demand, while MGM Resorts and Rollins saw significant declines due to failed takeover rumors and weak earnings, respectively. Market skepticism regarding sustained consumer strength amidst high costs contributed to the sector's overall decline.
How (ULTA) Movements Inform Risk Allocation Models
This article analyzes Ulta Beauty Inc. (NASDAQ: ULTA) using AI models, highlighting a stable neutral reading in shorter time horizons which could indicate an easing of a long-term weak bias. It details an exceptional 53.0:1 risk-reward setup targeting a 15.4% gain versus 0.3% risk, along with specific institutional trading strategies for various risk profiles. The analysis provides multi-timeframe signal analysis, including support and resistance levels for near-term, mid-term, and long-term horizons.
Ulta Beauty, Inc. (ULTA) options chain
This article provides the options chain data for Ulta Beauty, Inc. (ULTA) for the expiration date of January 19, 2029. It lists various strike prices with corresponding last prices, changes, percentage changes, volume, and open interest for both call and put options. The stock closed at $543.69 with a 1.11% increase on October 2, and traded at $543.69 after hours.
Will Exclusive Brand Launches Change Ulta Beauty's (ULTA) Narrative
Ulta Beauty is expanding its exclusive brand partnerships with Wavytalk and Flower Knows, moving their products from online to hundreds of physical stores with curated assortments. This strategy aims to offer differentiated inventory, attract trend-driven shoppers, and support emerging brands, potentially influencing Ulta Beauty's investment narrative amidst challenges like rising costs and the loss of Target shop-in-shops. The success hinges on whether these exclusive offerings translate into increased store visits and larger customer baskets.
Wells Fargo raises target for Ulta Beauty stock from USD 450.00 to USD 525.00
Wells Fargo has increased its target price for Ulta Beauty (ULTA) stock from $450.00 to $525.00, maintaining an "Equal Weight" rating. This adjustment follows Ulta Beauty's strong second-quarter fiscal 2026 results, which saw net sales rise by 8.90% and diluted EPS by 13.30% year over year. The company also raised its full-year guidance for net sales growth and diluted earnings per share, despite anticipating a more restrained outlook for the second half of the year.
Crocs, Inc. (CROX) Stock Price, News, Quote & History
This article provides a detailed financial overview of Crocs, Inc. (CROX), including its current stock price, historical performance, key financial metrics, and analyst recommendations. It highlights the company's business segments, recent earnings trends, and valuation measures.
Is Ulta Beauty Worth Buying as Growth Meets a Midrange Valuation?
Ulta Beauty is demonstrating stronger earnings growth and high returns on invested capital, yet its stock valuation is in a midrange territory, posing a dilemma for investors. The company's growth is diversified across multiple channels, but potential risks like subdued traffic, increased promotional activity, and limited margin expansion suggest that patience and close monitoring of operational execution are warranted rather than expecting an immediate re-rating of the stock.
Ulta Beauty Raises 2026 Outlook as E-Commerce Momentum Accelerates
Ulta Beauty Inc. (ULTA) raised its fiscal 2026 outlook following a stronger-than-expected second quarter, driven by accelerated e-commerce growth and robust loyalty engagement. The company now anticipates higher net sales, comparable-sales, and operating-income growth, as well as an improved earnings outlook, though margin expansion is expected to be modest. Ulta will focus on sustaining ticket strength and improving traffic in the second half, especially given tougher comparisons and a largely flat transaction growth rate in the previous quarter.
Is Ulta Beauty Worth Buying as Growth Meets a Midrange Valuation?
Ulta Beauty (ULTA) is entering the second half of fiscal 2026 with a stronger earnings outlook and high returns on invested capital, but its valuation is midrange rather than cheap. The company faces risks from a promotional environment, subdued traffic, and mixed category performance, which limit its margin outlook and potential for a significant re-rating. While its growth profile and cash generation are strong, the current setup suggests investors should exercise patience and closely monitor execution.
Ulta Beauty Rises 20.7% in 3 Months: Can Its Rally Keep Going Now?
Ulta Beauty (ULTA) shares have climbed 20.7% in the last three months due to improved operating performance, including increased sales and earnings in Q2 fiscal 2026, leading to a raised full-year outlook. While strong digital growth and new initiatives support this momentum, challenges like flat transaction volume, increased promotional activity, and a valuation premium necessitate consistent execution to sustain the rally. The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), indicating a balanced outlook despite its recent gains.
Ulta Beauty Raises 2026 Outlook as E-Commerce Momentum Accelerates
Ulta Beauty (ULTA) has increased its fiscal 2026 outlook following a strong second-quarter performance, driven by accelerated e-commerce growth and robust loyalty engagement. The company's digital momentum, with high-teens sales growth and over 50% of e-commerce orders fulfilled through stores, is a key factor. While the updated guidance reflects a more demanding financial benchmark, it emphasizes sales growth and expense discipline over significant margin expansion.
Ulta Beauty Rises 20.7% in 3 Months: Can Its Rally Keep Going Now?
Ulta Beauty's shares have gained 20.7% over the past three months due to improved operating performance, including a rise in Q2 fiscal 2026 sales and earnings, and an increased full-year outlook. While strong results, digital growth, and new initiatives support this momentum, challenges such as flat traffic, increased promotions, and valuation concerns suggest less room for error. The company's future rally depends on continued strong execution and growth beyond just an increase in average ticket size.
Elf Beauty Shares Rise as Canaccord Tracker Shows 11.6% Sales Growth
Elf Beauty (NYSE:ELF) saw its shares increase after a Canaccord sales tracker revealed an 11.6% year-on-year sales growth for E.l.f. Cosmetics and a 74.3% increase for its Naturium skin care brand during the two weeks ending September 20. The report also highlighted growth for Edgewell Personal Care (NYSE:EPC) in shave and sun care, and Perrigo (NYSE:PRGO) in private label infant formula, indicating strong performance in various beauty and personal care categories, particularly sun care.
Is Ulta Beauty Worth Buying as Growth Meets a Midrange Valuation?
Ulta Beauty (ULTA) is entering the second half of fiscal 2026 with a strong earnings outlook and expanding growth platforms, making its current midrange valuation a key consideration for investors. While the company's growth profile supports a bull case, its valuation is reasonable but not cheap, and faces risks from promotional environments and consumer selectivity. Ulta's financial flexibility is supported by strong cash returns, but its flat margin outlook and challenges in sustaining traffic suggest that sustained re-rating depends heavily on continued operating execution rather than significant margin expansion.
Ulta Beauty Inc. $ULTA Shares Sold by Envestnet Asset Management Inc.
Envestnet Asset Management Inc. reduced its stake in Ulta Beauty Inc. by 23.7% in the second quarter, selling 16,384 shares, though it still holds 52,756 shares valued at $23.8 million. Despite this, institutional investors collectively own a significant 90.39% of the company, and analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating with an average price target of $627.83. Ulta Beauty also reported strong quarterly earnings, exceeding expectations with $6.55 EPS and $3.04 billion in revenue, an 8.9% year-over-year increase.
&honey Expands US Distribution with Ulta Beauty Launch
Japanese hair care brand &honey has significantly expanded its US retail presence by launching nationwide with Ulta Beauty. This partnership introduces six of &honey's moisture-focused products, including shampoos, treatments, and hair oils from its Deep Moist and Melty Moist Repair collections, to approximately 600 Ulta stores and online. The move capitalizes on growing international interest in Asian beauty, extending beyond skincare and makeup into hair care.
Ulta Beauty stock after-hours at EUR 487.55: plus 0.97 percent versus prior close
Ulta Beauty's stock closed after-hours at EUR 487.55, marking a 0.97 percent increase from its previous close. This rise follows a reported 8.9 percent increase in second-quarter net sales, reaching $3.0 billion, and a 13.3 percent rise in diluted earnings per share to $6.55. The company also announced its participation in the Barclays 19th Annual Global Consumer Conference.
Variety and Outfront Announce the Experience and Culture Summit
Variety and Outfront are hosting their first-ever "Experience and Culture Summit: The IRL Advantage" on October 7th in New York. The invite-only event will feature Questlove, Charlamagne tha God, and Ice-T, alongside marketing leaders from major brands, to discuss the growing importance of real-world experiences in marketing. The summit aims to explore how live events build fandom, fuel creativity, and engage audiences in an increasingly fragmented media landscape.
Arlo Technologies, Inc. (ARLO) Stock Forecasts
This article provides a stock forecast for Arlo Technologies, Inc. (ARLO), highlighting a quantitative report from Argus dated September 23, 2026. Arlo Technologies, Inc. is described as a provider of security and video monitoring solutions. The report includes a current price of $12.47 and a price target, accessible with a premium upgrade.
Is Ulta Beauty (ULTA) A Bargain As In Store Brand Expansions Draw More Attention?
Ulta Beauty (ULTA) is gaining attention due to recent in-store brand expansions and partnerships, driving its share price up by 21.76% over 90 days. Despite this short-term gain, its year-to-date return is down, although long-term performance remains positive. The company is seen by many as undervalued, with a fair value of $627.25 against a recent close of $549.13, based on its wellness expansion and curated brand strategy targeting Gen Z and Millennials.
Is Ulta Beauty (ULTA) A Bargain As In Store Brand Expansions Draw More Attention?
Ulta Beauty (ULTA) is gaining attention due to the expansion of partner brands into its physical stores, leading to a recent share price climb despite a negative year-to-date return. The company is seen by many as undervalued, with a fair value of $627.25, driven by its push into experiential retail and wellness. However, its P/E ratio suggests less room for error if growth slows or margins tighten.
Japanese Haircare Brand ‘&honey’ Lands at Ulta
Japanese haircare brand &honey has launched at Ulta Beauty, expanding its presence in the U.S. The brand offers two signature collections, Deep Moist and Melty Moist Repair, each featuring shampoo, treatment, and hair oil in hexagonal pump bottles. &honey is known for its honey-inspired, moisture-focused formulas designed to hydrate and smooth hair.
Ulta Beauty, Inc. (ULTA) stock price, news, quote and history
This Yahoo Finance page provides a comprehensive overview of Ulta Beauty, Inc. (ULTA) stock, including its current price, recent news articles, performance data, and comparison against the S&P 500. The stock closed at 547.89, with after-hours trading showing a slight increase to 548.50. Recent news highlights Ulta's strategic moves, market position against competitors like Walmart, and investor sentiment.
Retailer-Exclusive Hair Tools: Wavytalk Debuts Ulta-Exclusive Products and Colorways
Wavytalk is expanding its partnership with Ulta Beauty by introducing a curated assortment of styling tools to select stores nationwide. This collection features Ulta-exclusive colorways for products like Blowout Boost and Power Wave, and the Steambrush Pro in Periwinkle, exclusive to the retailer. This move increases Wavytalk's brand visibility and offers Ulta Beauty differentiated hair tools, enhancing in-store discovery and catering to demand for simplified at-home styling with advanced features.
A beauty company sold Obagi Medical in a deal valued at up to $460 million. Milk Makeup is now its sole focus.
Waldencast plc (NASDAQ: WALD) announced its first-half 2026 financial results, revealing a 57.1% decrease in revenue from continuing operations and a widened net loss. The company completed the sale of its Obagi Medical business for up to $460 million, allowing it to repay debt and focus solely on the Milk Makeup brand. Waldencast plans to delist from Nasdaq, seek over-the-counter quotation, and implement significant cost reductions and strategic initiatives to restore Milk Makeup's growth and profitability.
How Investors May Respond To Ulta Beauty (ULTA) Adding Niche, Trend-Led Brands Like Flower Knows and COSRX
Ulta Beauty has expanded its brand offerings by launching Flower Knows cosmetics in 450 stores and on its "Just Dropped Beauty" platform, and COSRX's 5 Peptide Lip Collection in stores. This move aims to deepen Ulta's role as a curator of exclusive, trend-led brands and attract younger shoppers, supporting its growth narrative. While these additions align with Ulta's strategy to maintain healthy comparable store sales and margins, investors should also consider the risk posed by the shift towards online beauty spending and rising costs.
Five Below Adds Former Ulta CFO to Board as Retailer Expands
Five Below, Inc. has appointed Scott Settersten, former CFO of Ulta Beauty, to its board and audit committee. Settersten's extensive financial and operational experience from Ulta and PricewaterhouseCoopers is expected to support Five Below's long-term growth strategy. His appointment expands the board to 10 directors and aims to build on the retailer's momentum and create shareholder value.
How Is Williams-Sonoma's Stock Performance Compared to Other Specialty Retail Stocks?
Williams-Sonoma (WSM) is a large-cap home retailer with a market capitalization of $27.3 billion. While its stock has seen a 9.4% dip from its 52-week high and a 3.4% decrease over the past three months, it has significantly outperformed the ProShares Online Retail ETF (ONLN) year-to-date and over the past 52 weeks. The company reported strong Q2 2026 results, leading to an increased fiscal 2026 outlook, and analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with an 8.3% premium to current levels.
Wavytalk Expands Ulta Beauty Partnership with Nationwide In-Store Debut
Wavytalk, an award-winning hair tools brand, has expanded its partnership with Ulta Beauty through a nationwide in-store debut. This expansion makes Wavytalk's innovative styling tools, including Ulta-exclusive colorways and products like Blowout Boost, Power Wave, and Steambrush Pro, available in physical stores and on Ulta.com. The brand will celebrate this launch with a styling masterclass and public activation at Ulta Beauty's Chelsea location on September 30.
Ulta Beauty stock trades below its yearly high after Q2 growth
Ulta Beauty's stock is trading below its 52-week high despite strong Q2 2026 results, with sales of USD 3.04 billion and diluted EPS of USD 6.55, both exceeding analyst expectations. Analysts like DA Davidson reaffirmed a "Buy" rating with a target above the current price, while the company raised its full-year 2026 guidance.
Ulta Beauty Inc. $ULTA Holdings Decreased by QRG Capital Management Inc.
QRG Capital Management Inc. significantly reduced its stake in Ulta Beauty Inc. by 51.6% in the second quarter, selling 3,622 shares and retaining 3,391 shares valued at approximately $1.53 million. Despite this, institutional investors collectively own 90.39% of the company, and analyst sentiment remains positive with a consensus "Moderate Buy" rating and an average price target of $627.83. Ulta Beauty recently reported stronger-than-expected quarterly results, and while some institutional investors slightly increased their holdings, CEO Kecia Steelman and director Lorna Nagler both sold company shares.
Tempe may ban ALPR cameras
The city of Tempe is considering a ban on Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPR) following public outcry over privacy concerns and misuse of data by law enforcement. While Mayor Corey Woods acknowledges public sentiment and the need to maintain public trust, he also notes the technology's effectiveness in finding missing persons and vehicles. The city council recently approved a contract with Axon Enterprise Inc. for equipment but explicitly prohibited the use of ALPR technology within that agreement.
Japanese Haircare Expansions: &honey Brings Its Moisture-Focused Routines to Ulta Beauty
Japanese haircare brand &honey is expanding its U.S. presence by launching six moisture-focused products at Ulta Beauty stores and online. The Deep Moist and Melty Moist Repair collections, featuring honey for hydration, offer three-step routines for different hair needs. This partnership enhances accessibility to international beauty routines for U.S. consumers and positions Ulta Beauty as a destination for global brands.
Building a beauty powerhouse
Mandy Fields, CFO of e.l.f. Beauty, has overseen significant growth, with the company reaching $1.64 billion in annual net sales for fiscal year 2026. Fields emphasizes long-term investment and strategic acquisitions, such as Hailey Bieber's rhode skincare brand, while navigating market challenges. She also highlights the evolving role of a CFO to include leading technological and strategic transformation.
Argus Adjusts Price Target on Ulta Beauty to $600 From $550, Keeps Buy Rating
Argus has raised its price target for Ulta Beauty (ULTA) to $600 from $550, while reiterating a Buy rating on the stock. This adjustment reflects the firm's continued confidence in the beauty retailer's performance and future outlook.
&honey Brings Its Japanese Haircare Rituals to Ulta Beauty
Japanese haircare brand &honey has launched its products at Ulta Beauty, both online and in approximately 600 stores nationwide. The brand, known for its honey-inspired, moisture-focused formulas, introduces six core products from its Deep Moist and Melty Moist Repair collections, each retailing for $23. This expansion aims to make &honey's distinctive haircare philosophy more accessible to U.S. consumers.
&honey Brings Its Japanese Haircare Rituals to Ulta Beauty
Japanese haircare brand &honey has launched at Ulta Beauty, introducing its honey-inspired, moisture-focused formulas to the U.S. market. Six core products from the Deep Moist and Melty Moist Repair collections are now available online and in approximately 600 Ulta Beauty stores, retailing for $23 each. This expansion provides American consumers with a new way to experience &honey's signature three-step haircare ritual, designed to enhance hair softness, smoothness, and hydration.
Did Trend Brand Rollouts Just Shift Ulta Beauty's (ULTA) Investment Narrative?
Ulta Beauty is expanding its in-store offerings with popular brands like Flower Knows and COSRX, which are expected to attract younger shoppers and enhance product stories. While these additions align with Ulta's strategy of exclusive and trend-driven assortments, they offer incremental rather than transformational growth. The success of these rollouts in driving traffic and basket size without significantly increasing expenses will be crucial, especially as Ulta's partnership with Target concludes in 2026.
Tanger Outlets Columbus to add more shopping and dining destinations
Tanger Outlets Columbus is expanding its offerings with the addition of a new Build-A-Bear Workshop and a Sbarro restaurant, both scheduled to open later this year. These new establishments, along with other recent store openings, are part of Tanger's strategy to enhance shopping, dining, and family-friendly experiences at the outlet center. The marketing director stated that these additions will bring more energy and variety, allowing guests to create special memories and enjoy new experiences.
Tanger Outlets Columbus to add more shopping and dining destinations
Tanger Outlets Columbus is expanding its offerings with the addition of a new Build-A-Bear Workshop and a Sbarro restaurant, both scheduled to open later this year. These new establishments aim to enhance shopping, dining, and family-friendly experiences at the Delaware County outlet center, joining other recent additions like The Children’s Place and Spring Step Shoes. The expansion reflects Tanger's commitment to bringing more variety and energy to its retail lineup.
Five Below Appoints Former Ulta Beauty CFO Scott Settersten to Board
Five Below, Inc. has appointed Scott Settersten, former Chief Financial Officer of Ulta Beauty, to its Board of Directors and Audit Committee, effective September 21, 2026. Settersten brings extensive retail finance and operations experience, having overseen finance, accounting, tax, treasury, and real estate during his decade at Ulta Beauty. His appointment expands Five Below's board to 10 directors and is expected to aid the discount retailer in its continued national expansion and long-term growth strategy.
Ulta Beauty stock falls 1.81 percent ahead of the open
Ulta Beauty stock dropped 1.81% ahead of the open, closing at USD 543.81 on September 23, 2026, while the Nasdaq Composite fell 1.13%. The stock traded between USD 543.21 and USD 563.10 with a volume of 322,586 shares. DA Davidson reaffirmed a Buy rating and raised its price target to USD 625 for Ulta Beauty.
Viral C-Beauty Expansions: Flower Knows Brings Its Online Popularity Into 450 Ulta Stores
Flower Knows, a popular C-Beauty brand known for its online presence, is expanding into physical retail with a limited-time launch in 450 Ulta Beauty stores across the U.S. This move allows the brand to test broader market demand and introduces its distinctive, fantasy-inspired products to a wider audience. The expansion is further supported by a four-day holiday pop-up in New York City.
Meta's Muse Stays Free, Adds Shopping With Walmart, Sephora, Best Buy - Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META)
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that the company's AI agent, Muse, will remain free for most users and will eventually generate revenue by taking a small fee from transactions it completes. The company has partnered with major retailers like Walmart, Sephora, and Best Buy for in-app shopping experiences, as well as productivity tools and travel services. Muse, which launched on September 8th, has already seen over 1,500 developer applications for integrations, and analysts at JPMorgan believe it could become a widely used consumer AI app.
Press Release: Five Below Appoints Scott Settersten to Its Board of Directors
Five Below, Inc. has announced the appointment of Scott Settersten, former Chief Financial Officer of Ulta Beauty, to its Board of Directors, effective September 23, 2026. This addition brings the total number of board members to ten. Settersten's extensive financial and retail experience is expected to provide valuable insights to the company.
Ulta Beauty Inc. stock underperforms Wednesday when compared to competitors
Ulta Beauty Inc. (ULTA) stock fell by 1.81% to $543.81 on Wednesday, experiencing its second consecutive day of losses. This underperformance occurred during a generally negative trading session for the market, with the S&P 500 Index dropping 0.75% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average falling 0.68%.
Ulta Beauty CEO Kecia Steelman Sells 2,000 Shares for $1.1 Million
Ulta Beauty CEO Kecia Steelman sold 2,000 shares of common stock for approximately $1.1 million on September 17, 2026. This transaction represents about 5% of her total holdings, leaving her with 40,489 shares valued at $22.02 million. While the reason for the sale is unknown, analysts suggest it's not a cause for concern, given the stock's 30% increase during her tenure as CEO.
Ulta Beauty stock holds near USD 554 as earnings beat estimates
Ulta Beauty's stock is holding near $554 after the company reported earnings per share (EPS) of $6.55 for the quarter ended August 2026, surpassing the consensus estimate of $6.22. Revenue increased by 8.9% year-over-year to $3.04 billion, also exceeding analyst expectations. Despite the strong earnings beat, the stock remains significantly below its 52-week high, trading closer to its yearly low.
Ulta Beauty CEO Kecia Steelman Sells 2,000 Shares for $1.1 Million
Ulta Beauty CEO Kecia Steelman sold 2,000 shares of company stock for approximately $1.1 million on September 17, 2026. This transaction represents about 5% of her total holdings, with Steelman retaining 40,489 shares. Despite the sale, the company's stock has risen by nearly 30% during her tenure as CEO, showcasing strong revenue and net income growth in the first half of fiscal year 2026.
Flower Knows Marks 10 Year Anniversary with Limited-Time U.S. Retail Expansion into Ulta Beauty Store Nationwide, Alongside Blockbuster Experiential Brand Moments
Flower Knows is celebrating its 10th anniversary by expanding its U.S. retail presence through a limited-time launch into 450 Ulta Beauty stores nationwide. This expansion, part of Ulta Beauty's "Just Dropped Beauty" platform, will feature a curated selection of Flower Knows' hero products and coincides with the debut of the new Snow Ballet Collection and a holiday pop-up in New York City. The brand, which saw significant success with its Ulta.com launch in 2025, continues to gain international popularity due to its unique packaging, viral social media campaigns, and strategic retail partnerships.
