Funds Gobble Up Palantir Ahead Of Earnings; Deckers Shares Also See Demand

Victor HaleMonday, Nov 4, 2024 3:29 pm ET
2min read
Investors are bullish on Palantir Technologies (PLTR) and Deckers Brands (DECK) as both companies approach their earnings reports, with funds snapping up shares in anticipation of strong results. The recent surge in AI demand and robust brand performance have fueled investor interest in these companies, driving their stock prices higher.

Palantir Technologies, a leading provider of software platforms for the intelligence community, has seen a surge in demand for its AI solutions. The company's unique focus on real-world AI integration has positioned it as a leader in the AI landscape, with its enterprise platforms—Gotham, Foundry, Apollo, and the new AIP—driving growth across both commercial and government sectors. Analysts expect Palantir to report revenue of around $699 million, representing a 25% year-over-year increase, and earnings per share of $0.09. With a P/S ratio of approximately 40x, Palantir's stock has surged this year, fueled by AI momentum.

Government contracts have been a significant driver of Palantir's growth and investor interest. The company's software platforms, particularly Gotham and Foundry, are widely used by government agencies for data analysis and decision-making. Palantir's ability to secure and execute these contracts has demonstrated its value proposition and contributed to its revenue growth. As the government continues to invest in AI and data analytics, Palantir's position as a leading provider in these areas is expected to remain strong.

Deckers Brands, a global leader in designing, marketing, and distributing innovative footwear, apparel, and accessories, has also seen strong investor demand. The company's iconic brands, Hoka and UGG, have seen significant growth, with Hoka's net sales increasing 34.7% and UGG's up 13.0% in the second quarter of fiscal 2025. This robust consumer demand has led to increased investor interest, with the stock trading up 20.1% year-to-date.

Deckers' strategic focus on innovation and global expansion has significantly impacted its stock price. The company's commitment to maintaining exceptional levels of profitability while scaling its brands has driven revenue growth of 18% and increased earnings per share by 51% in fiscal year 2024. This focus has also led to a 20% increase in revenue and a 39% increase in diluted EPS in the second fiscal quarter of 2025, with the company raising its revenue guidance to approximately $4.8 billion and its EPS guidance to a range of $5.15-$5.25. As a result, Deckers' stock price has seen significant gains, reflecting investors' confidence in the company's long-term growth prospects.

In conclusion, investors are bullish on Palantir and Deckers as both companies approach their earnings reports, driven by strong AI demand and robust brand performance, respectively. Palantir's unique focus on real-world AI integration and government contracts have positioned it as a leader in the AI landscape, while Deckers' strategic focus on innovation and global expansion has driven its stock price higher. As these companies continue to grow and innovate, investors remain optimistic about their long-term prospects.