Estee Lauder: The Luxury Stock That Hedge Funds Can't Resist

Estee Lauder Companies (EL) has been making waves in the luxury goods market, and hedge funds have taken notice. In this article, we'll explore why EL is a top luxury stock according to hedge funds and how its performance compares to its peers.

A Strong Brand Portfolio and Global Reach

EL's success in the luxury goods market can be attributed to its diverse brand portfolio, which includes iconic brands like Estée Lauder, Clinique, Origins, M·A·C, and La Mer. This diversification allows EL to cater to a wide range of consumer preferences and market segments across different regions. With a strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia, EL has a global reach that enables it to maintain a strong presence even in the face of economic fluctuations or geopolitical instability.



A Resilient Dividend and Payout Ratio

EL has a history of paying dividends, with a 3-year dividend growth streak and an annual dividend of $1.40 in 2024, which amounts to a dividend yield of 1.88%. While EL's dividend payout ratio is high at 249.17%, the company recently reduced its dividend to create more financial flexibility for its incoming leadership team. This move indicates that EL is taking steps to ensure the long-term sustainability of its dividend.

A Turnaround Story in the Making

EL's recent financial performance has been challenging, with organic sales down 5% year over year in the fiscal first quarter of 2025. However, the company is addressing its issues by making tough moves, such as restructuring and bringing in a new CEO. This focus on self-help should help EL turn its fortunes around and position it for long-term growth.



The Hedge Fund Perspective

Hedge funds have taken notice of EL's potential, with 28 analysts providing opinions on the stock. Of these, 25 have a hold rating, indicating that they believe EL is a solid investment but may not be the best performer in the near term. However, the fact that only one analyst has a sell rating suggests that hedge funds are generally bullish on EL's long-term prospects.



Conclusion: EL is a Top Luxury Stock According to Hedge Funds

EL's strong brand portfolio, global reach, resilient dividend, and turnaround story make it a top luxury stock according to hedge funds. While the company faces challenges, its focus on self-help and the general bullishness of hedge funds suggest that EL is well-positioned for long-term growth. As always, investors should carefully consider the company's financial health and prospects before making investment decisions.