What L Brands' Earnings Mean for Mutual Fund Investors (LB)

After Wednesday’s closing bell, L Brands (LB) released its fourth quarter financial results. Here’s what the results mean for mutual fund investors.

Inside LB’s Results

Earnings

The company reported net income of $564.8 million, or $1.89 per share, up from $489.6 million, or $1.65 per share, last year. On average, analysts expected to see EPS of $1.80.

Revenue
Revenue rose 7% to $4.07 billion from $3.82 billion. Analysts expected to see revenue of $4.03 billion.

Outlook
Looking ahead to the first quarter, the company expects to see EPS between 50 cents and 55 cents. Analysts expect to see EPS of 62 cents. For FY2015, the company expects earnings to be between $3.45 and $3.65 per share, while analysts are estimating $3.83 per in share.

Weak Outlook, but Management Is Optimistic

L Brands, which is the parent company of Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works and three other brands, posted a weak outlook for the first quarter and FY2015, but its CEO noted that she is “optimistic” going forward into 2015. The stock has been a winner over the last 12 months – as shares rose over 60%, versus the industry average of just 15%. The company also boosted its quarterly dividend 47% during the quarter, lifting its yield above 2%.

While the apparel retailer industry has been gloomy for many of LB’s competitors, LB has been a strong company with an improving dividend yield.

Mutual Funds to Watch

For investors seeking exposure to L Brands, but also want diversification, a mutual fund investment may be a good alternative. The funds below currently hold the largest stakes in LB.

The Bottom Line

The funds above allow investors to gain exposure to LB while remaining diversified. Investors interested in LB may also be interested in stocks like Ann Inc (ANN), Coach (COH) and Chico’s (CHS).