V.F. Corp's Insider Buying Surge Signals a Turnaround Play

Investors often overlook the quiet but powerful signals of insider buying—a metric that separates the truly confident executives from the merely optimistic. In the case of V.F. Corporation (VFC), recent transactions by its leadership team totaling over $2.2 million send a clear message: this outdoor and lifestyle apparel giant is poised for a resurgence. Let's dissect why these purchases, paired with strategic shifts under new leadership, make VFC a compelling buy now.

The Insider Buying Catalyst: Bracken and Carucci's Track Record

The most compelling evidence of insider confidence comes from Bracken Darrell, CEO, and Richard Carucci, Director, whose purchases since 2023 have been nothing short of bold.

• Bracken Darrell's $2+ Million Bet:
  Darrell purchased 75,200 shares in June 2024 at $13.26/share, followed by a 65,360-share purchase in February 2024 at $15.38/share. These stakes, totaling over $2 million, paid off handsomely. By August 2024, shares hit $26.59—a 148% profit on his June purchase. His timing aligns with V.F.'s push to streamline operations and refocus on high-margin brands like The North Face and Timberland.

• Carucci's Steady Hands:
  Carucci, a seasoned director, has been a consistent buyer, snapping up 60,000 shares since early 2024. His August 2024 purchase at $16.70/share—just before the stock surged—demonstrates laser-focused timing. Over the past year, his stakes have generated a 59% return, underscoring his faith in the company's turnaround.

The Dalmia Effect: A Strategic Prominence Play

While Abhishek Dalmia, VFC's newly minted Chief Operating Officer, hasn't yet executed open-market purchases, his $3 million equity-linked compensation package and 304,253-share stock option grant (vesting through 2027) signal confidence in the company's future. Dalmia's promotion to COO in April 2025—tasked with overhauling supply chains and digital strategy—represents a critical pivot. His prior role at Boston Consulting Group and lululemon suggests he's here to drive operational efficiency, a lifeline for a sector struggling with inventory overhang and shifting consumer preferences.

Why Now? The Perfect Storm of Undervaluation and Turnaround

VFC's stock has lagged, down 23% year-to-date as of May 2025, but this slump creates a buying opportunity. Here's why insiders are acting:

1. Balance Sheet Strength:
   The company's March 2025 redemption of $285 million in senior notes signals financial discipline, reducing debt and freeing cash for innovation.

2. Brand Focus and Cost Cuts:
   VFC is shedding underperforming brands and doubling down on premium lines. The North Face, for instance, now accounts for 35% of revenue—a category with strong growth potential.

3. Dalmia's Restructuring Play:
   His mandate to slash supply chain costs and digitize inventory systems could unlock $200 million in annual savings by 2026, per internal targets.

The Bottom Line: A Risk-Adjusted Growth Story

VFC trades at just 7.5x forward earnings, a stark discount to peers like Under Armour (12.1x) and Lululemon (27.3x). With insiders owning 72% of shares—and Bracken and Carucci's stakes growing—the alignment between ownership and shareholders is rare.

Actionable Takeaway:
The $2.2 million in insider buying since 2023, paired with Dalmia's strategic overhaul, positions VFC for a 20–30% upside within 12 months. Investors should accumulate shares at current depressed levels, especially as Q4 earnings (due in early 2026) will test the execution of these turnaround initiatives.

This is no gamble—it's a bet on leadership with skin in the game, and the odds are in your favor.

Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results.