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s Wolverine World Wide the Next Big Thing in Small Caps?

TipsForTraders | July 23, 2024

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Wolverine World Wide (WWW) has been treading water amidst a broader market rotation away from mega-cap tech stocks. However, the footwear giant’s shares surged last Friday, catching the attention of investors. Could this be the start of a turnaround for the company that houses iconic brands like Merrell, Saucony, and Wolverine?

The company, which designs, markets, and licenses footwear and apparel, has faced challenges. Recent quarterly earnings have been lackluster, and the stock price has struggled. Yet, a confluence of factors is raising eyebrows.

UBS analyst Mauricio Serna recently upgraded WWW to a “buy” rating from “neutral,” citing potential for sales growth, margin improvement, and increased free cash flow. This bullish sentiment echoes similar upgrades from other analysts. The market is clearly anticipating a turnaround.

Wolverine’s upcoming second-quarter earnings report on August 7 will be a critical test. While analysts expect a year-over-year earnings decline, they anticipate sequential improvement and revenue growth. The company’s ability to manage its debt load and generate free cash flow will also be closely watched.

Technically, the stock is approaching a key resistance level. A successful breakout could propel shares towards a potential target of $17.50, representing a significant upside. However, investors should exercise caution as the stock’s short interest remains relatively high.

While Wolverine World Wide faces hurdles, the recent analyst upgrades and technical indicators suggest a potential inflection point. The company’s diverse portfolio of brands, coupled with its focus on debt reduction and cash flow generation, could position it for a rebound. Investors will be closely monitoring the company’s upcoming earnings report for further clues about its trajectory.

Key Takeaways:

  • Wolverine World Wide (WWW) stock has shown recent strength despite broader market challenges.
  • UBS analyst upgrade and positive technical indicators suggest potential upside.
  • Upcoming earnings report is crucial for determining the company’s trajectory.
  • Debt reduction and free cash flow generation are key factors for long-term success.

Conclusion:

Wolverine World Wide is at a crossroads. While the company has faced headwinds, recent developments suggest a potential turnaround. Investors should carefully weigh the risks and rewards before making investment decisions. The upcoming earnings report will be a pivotal moment for the stock.