BKE

Recent results at Buckle (BKE) showed higher net and comparable store sales, led by women’s apparel, but softer men’s denim, rising marketing and labor costs, and a lapsed tariff benefit pressured profitability. Buckle’s recent earnings and the board resignation have come as the share price has fallen 19.36% year to date to US$43.43, with a 30 day share price return of down 3.49%. However, the 5 year total shareholder return of 83.97% points to a stronger long term record. Spot strong retail stories on steadier footing than Buckle by scanning our hand picked list of solid balance sheet and fundamentals (51 results). Bulls see Buckle’s pullback as an entry into a cash-generative retailer with growing women’s sales. Bears point to softer margins and men’s denim. Which story do the current valuation numbers support next? The most followed narrative for Buckle compares a fair value of $47 to the last close at $43.43, suggesting the shares trade at a discount based on those assumptions. Read the complete narrative. Analysts behind this fair value lean heavily on steady revenue expansion, a reset in profit margins, and a higher future earnings multiple than the stock currently commands. It is worth exploring which of those assumptions carries the most weight in the model, as well as how sensitive the $47 figure is to small changes in growth or margins. Result: Fair Value of $47 (UNDERVALUED) Have a read of the narrative in full and understand what's behind the forecasts. However, Buckle’s heavy mall exposure and inventory rising faster than sales could still pressure margins and challenge the view that the stock is currently undervalued. Find out about the key risks to this Buckle narrative. With mixed sentiment around Buckle's recent results, it makes sense to review both the risks and the upside before forming a view. To weigh both sides efficiently, start by checking the 3 key rewards and 2 important warning signs. If Buckle has your attention, do not stop here. Broaden your watchlist with fresh ideas that could suit different goals, risk levels, and income needs. Target potential mispricing by scanning a curated 45 high quality undervalued stocks that focuses on companies combining quality fundamentals with appealing valuations. Strengthen your passive income plan by reviewing a hand picked group of 12 dividend fortresses that aim to provide higher yields with resilient profiles. Prioritise capital protection by filtering for 74 resilient stocks with low risk scores that show steadier fundamentals and lower overall risk scores. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include BKE. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email [email protected]

Image source: The Motley Fool. Friday, Aug. 21, 2026 at 10 a.m. ET President and CEO - Dennis H. Nelson Senior Vice President of Finance, Treasurer, and CFO - Thomas Heacock Vice President of Finance and Corporate Controller - Adam J. Akerson Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and corporate secretary - Brady Jenschke Fritz Operator: Good morning, and thank you for standing by. And welcome to Buckle's Second Quarter Earnings Release Webcast. With instructions given at that time. Members of Buckle's management on the call today are Dennis H. Nelson, President and CEO; Thomas Heacock, Senior Vice President of Finance, Treasurer, and CFO; Adam J. Akerson, Vice President of Finance and Corporate Controller and Brady Jenschke Fritz, Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and corporate secretary. Before beginning, the company would like to reiterate its policy of not providing future sales or earnings guidance. All forward looking statements made on the call are pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 2000. Actual results may differ materially due to risks and uncertainties described in the company's SEC filings. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise these statements except as required by law. Additionally, the company does not authorize the reproduction or dissemination of transcripts or audio recordings of the company's quarterly conference calls without its express written consent. Any unauthorized reproductions or recording of the calls should not be relied upon as the information may be inaccurate. As a reminder, today's webcast is being recorded. And I would now like to turn the conference over to your host, Thomas Heacock. Thomas Heacock: Good morning, and thanks for joining us this morning. Our 08/21/2026 press release reported that net income for the 13-week second quarter which ended 08/01/2026, was $44.4 million or $0.87 per share on a diluted basis which compares to net income of $45 million or $0.89 per share on a diluted basis for the prior year 13-week second quarter which ended 08/02/2025. Year to date net income for the 26 week period ended 08/01/2026, was $91.3 million or $1.79 per share on a diluted basis, which compares to net income of $80.2 million or $1.59 per share on a diluted basis for the prior year 26 week period ended 08/02/2025. Net sales for the 13-week second quarter increased 4.6% to $320 million compared to net sales of $306 million for the prior year 13-week second quarter. Comparable store sales for the quarter increased 2.1% in comparison to the same 13-week period in the prior year and our online sales increased 2.3% to $44.6 million. Year to date, net sales increased 5.3% to $609 million compared to net sales of $578 million for the prior year 26 week fiscal period and comparable store sales for the year to date period increased 3.5% in comparison to the same 26 week period in the prior year and our online sales increased 2.5% to $92.2 million. For both the quarter and year to date periods, UPTs decreased approximately 1% the average unit retail increased approximately 4.5%, and the average transaction value increased about 3.5%. Gross margin for the quarter was 47.8%, a 40 basis point increase from 47.4% in the second quarter of 2025. For the quarter, merchandise margins improved by 110 basis points which includes 65 basis points of impact from tariff refunds received during the quarter and was partially offset by a 70 basis point increase in buying distribution and occupancy expenses related to continued growth in the number of both new and relocated store locations. Year to date, gross margin was 47.1%, consistent with the same period in the prior year, and during the period, a 55 basis point increase in merchandise margins was offset by a 55 basis point increase in buying distribution and occupancy expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the quarter were 30.4% of net sales, compared to 29.0% for the second quarter of 2025. Year to date, SG&A was 28.1% of sales, compared to 29.8% for the same period in the prior year. The second quarter increase was due to a 45 basis point increase in marketing expenses as we increased investments in initiatives aimed at driving guest acquisition and strengthening long term brand momentum, as well as a 35 basis point increase in store labor related expenses, a 30 basis point increase in health insurance benefits, a 20 basis point increase in store supplies, and a 45 basis point increase in certain other SG&A categories. These increases were partially offset by a 35 basis point reduction in incentive and equity compensation accrual. Our operating margin for the quarter was 17.4% compared to 18.4% for the second quarter of 2025. And for the year to date period, our operating margin was 19%, compared to 17.3% for the same period last year. Income tax expense as a percentage of pretax net income for each of the current and prior year quarter and year to date periods was 24.5%. Our press release also included a balance sheet as of 08/01/2026, which included the following: inventory of $161 million up 13.3% from the same time a year ago, and $323 million of total cash and investments. We ended the quarter with $192 million in fixed assets net of accumulated depreciation, Our capital expenditures for the quarter were $29.8 million and depreciation expense was $6.9 million. For the year to date period, capital expenditures were $44.5 million and depreciation expense was $13.4 million. to date capital spending is broken down as follows: $24.4 million for new store construction, store remodels and technology upgrades and $20.1 million for capital spending at the corporate headquarters and distribution center which includes the purchase of a new corporate aircraft as a replacement for the plane that was sold during fiscal 2025. During the quarter, we opened 5 new stores completed 5 full store remodels, 4 of which were relocations in new outdoor shopping centers and closed 1 store. Following quarter end, we opened 1 additional new store, brings our year-to-date counts through to date to 9 new stores, 10 full remodels and 2 store closures. For the remainder of the year, we anticipate opening 5 additional new stores and completing 4 more full remodel projects. Buckle ended the quarter with 446 retail stores in 42 states, compared with 440 stores in 42 states at the end of the second quarter of 2025. And now I will turn the call over to Adam J. Akerson, our Vice President of Finance. Adam J. Akerson: Thanks, Tom, and good morning. Our women's business continued its strong performance during the quarter, increasing 9.5% on top of an 18.5% increase in the second quarter of 2025. The women's business represented 50% of total sales for the quarter, up from 47.5% last year, reflecting broad based strength across key categories. Women's denim remained a standout performer, growing 11% year over year, supported by strong denim trends across a variety of leg openings and rises. Guests responded particularly well to the depth and versatility of the assortment, driving both unit and dollar growth with average denim price points increasing from $85.35 to $92.50 during the quarter. Beyond traditional denim, the alternative pants category continued to be the fastest growing segment of the women's business, increasing almost 50% year over year. This growth was fueled by strong guest demand for prints and colors across a wide range of wider leg silhouettes. Women's tops also delivered a strong performance growing approximately 10 and a half percent year over year, led by fashion and graphic styles that paired well with wider leg and pattern bottoms. Additionally, women's shorts experienced strong selling during the quarter, accelerating in July as customers shopped the summer season and began preparing for back to school. Our men's business delivered consistent performance during the quarter, with total sales remaining essentially flat to last year representing 50% of the total company sales compared to 52.5% in the prior year. While men's denim sales declined approximately 3.5% year over year, Private label denim outperformed the category as the majority of the softness was concentrated in higher price point national brands. Despite the shift in brand mix, average denim price points remained consistent at $89.20 versus $89.30 last year. Slight growth in our shorts category helped offset a portion of the denim decline, reflecting guests' positive response to our seasonal assortment. Tops continued to be a bright spot within the men's business, growing 3.5% year over year, showcasing the strength and breadth of our assortment. Graphic tees performed particularly well across a variety of lifestyles, fabric weights, and designs while short sleeve woven shirts delivered strong results in both print and solid styles. Our expanded polo assortment also resonated with guests providing style options for a range of occasions. Strong selling in hoodies generated incremental sales growth during the quarter, reflecting consistent guest demand for casual and versatile apparel. On a combined basis, accessory sales for the quarter increased approximately 2.5% against the prior year, and footwear sales increased about 0.5%. These 2 categories accounted for approximately 11.5% and 5% respectively of second quarter net sales for both fiscal 2025 and 2020. For the quarter, average accessory price points were up approximately 5% and average footwear price points were up 10%. Kids business delivered another outstanding quarter, increasing 11% on top of 23% increase in the second quarter of 2025. Growth was broad based across the category, led by strong performance in denim shorts and casual bottoms, and tees. Many of the same trends driving success in our adult business resonated well with kids and parents alike, as Mini Me styling remained a meaningful driver of demand. For the quarter, denim accounted for approximately 35.5% of sales, and tops accounted for approximately 30.5% compares with 36%, and 29.5% for each in the second quarter of fiscal 2025. Our private label business for the quarter represented 44.5% of sales versus 43.5% for the second quarter of 2025, And with that, we welcome your questions. Operator: Thank you. As a reminder for participants, if you would like Prior to asking your question, please state your name and affiliation. Our first question comes from Mauricio Serna from UBS. Please unmute your line and ask your question. Mauricio Serna: Brett. Good morning. Thanks for taking our questions. Just going back to the comment on merchandise margin, I think you mentioned it was up 110 basis points. That included 65 basis points of tariff refunds. 2 part question, I guess. Like, what drove the other 45 basis points included in merchandise margin expansion? And just on the tariff refund, are you expecting any other tariff refunds going into the back half? And how are the tariff refunds being accounted for, like, in the balance sheet? At this point? Thank you. Thomas Heacock: Yeah. Thank you, Mauricio. Thanks for the question. On the merchandise margins, the numbers that we gave merchandise margins for the quarter were up 110 basis points offset by about 65 basis points of tariff refund impact. So absolute, they were up 45 basis points without, or 45 basis points without the impact of tariff refunds. The driver of that was really a slight increase in private label. Private label was up about 100 basis points. You know, strong regular price selling, markdowns are down, really, really clean business there, and strong sell throughs of new product. And really pretty broad based. Both men's and women's merchandise margins were up, just continue to work at it and find opportunities to grow that margin. So no 1 specific thing, kind of a combination of things. As far as tariff, all of the refunds that we expect to receive, were received. So we received a total of $2.5 million during the quarter. A little over $2 million was a credit to cost of goods sold to impact merchandise margins in Q2, and a small amount will flow into and a small amount will flow into Q3. So a little bit more impact, but most of it has been recognized. Mauricio Serna: Got it. And thank you for that. A quick follow-up just on I think on the SG&A side, you have flagged 45 basis points of marketing deleverage Could you give us a sense of how much were marketing dollars up on a year over year and, like, you know, where are you seeing that, like, know, how are you feeling about that, you know, the return of that investment as you think about, like, you know, potential acceleration in the back half of the year? Thomas Heacock: Yeah. I do not know that we will we will give out the dollar amount of how much it was up. It was 45 basis points, it was spread across a number of initiatives and really pretty broad based focused on both new to file and also retention. So when you look kind of at all of our programs, it was spread between CTV, Spotify, search, social creators, really all those things. We have increased our investment in all of them to, again, and email as well to really focus on, again, both retention and acquisition. So we have seen a nice response. We are pleased with the response we have seen and have more plans to continue to review and build there. Going forward, Part of it in each of those channels, I mean, we are seeing cost increases from the providers, so that is a part of it too. it is not just increasing spend just to just to attract more guests, but costs are rising too. So that is part of it. And then we have also invested over the last several quarters in tooling for our marketing team to increase the data and the analytics and the insights that they have to really help drive our marketing programs going forward. So that is a part of it as well. Mauricio Serna: Thank you so much. Operator: Thank you. Our next question comes from John Bratz with Kansas City Capital. Please unmute your line and ask your question. John Bratz: Tom, Adam, when you look at the results over the last year or so, women's business has been relatively stronger than the men's. And I am wondering if you could comment on that, maybe the relative weakness in the men's category versus the women. Dennis H. Nelson: John, this is Dennis. I think the excitement with all the new product and fashion and the denim and casuals and the ladies doing a great job of doing collective groups for the top in the in our brands. Have really created excitement and grown their business substantially The men's has been more consistent and probably a little more weather sensitive, but it is a solid business, and we feel really good about the men's business as well. John Bratz: Okay. And Dennis, do not want to nitpick or anything like that, but you know, it is been I look back at the numbers, 50 consecutive months of year over year declines in footwear volumes. And I know early on, you had some tough comps with, hey, dude. But is footwear being deemphasized at all? Is there you know, what might account for just the sort of the softness in footwear in the footwear category, or is it is it soft across the board in all footwear companies? Any thoughts on that? Dennis H. Nelson: Well, the men's needs a strong brand like Hey Dudes or somebody like that to have huge volume, and it is still a steady business for us, but not where we had the big business several years ago where we had kind of exclusive styles in depth there. On the ladies business, it is pretty consistent and kind of depends on the fashion. But the men's will be a small part of our business until we hit the right new fashion item to drive it. And understanding is that the footwear business is difficult right now for most people. John Bratz: Okay. Alright. Thank you, Dennis. Dennis H. Nelson: Yes. Operator: Our next question comes from Mauricio Serna with UBS Investment Bank. Please unmute your line and ask your question. Mauricio Serna: Brett. Yeah, just a quick follow-up. I think you talked a little bit about back to school. there is been some talk about it being, like, a bit of a delay on that, and that might be weighing on you know, the retail environment. Any thoughts on that? Like, maybe you know, like, in July, that was a bit of a reason why it comes for a little bit relatively slow. Maybe that you are seeing some of some of that improvement as that spending shifted a little bit more towards August. So any comments on what you are seeing related to back to school would be very helpful. Thank you. Dennis H. Nelson: I think each year, the tax freeze kind of change dates, which months they are in, and we hear certain states maybe start school a little later or a little earlier at different times. So it is over the total stores, it is difficult to call that out. But I know that creates some challenges for comps in certain markets But overall, it seems to average out most of the time. Mauricio Serna: Thank you very much. Operator: Thank you. As a reminder, if you would like to ask a question, There are no further questions. I will now hand the call back over to Buckle for any closing remarks. If there are no further questions, we will wrap up the call. Thank you everyone for participating. And have a wonderful rest of the day. Before you buy stock in Buckle, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Buckle wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut are built for long-term growth and could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $432,189!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,330,956!* That performance is why people listen. With a track record of beating the S&P 500 by nearly 5x, Stock Advisor offers a distinct advantage. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built for the long haul. See the 10 stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of August 21, 2026. This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Buckle (BKE) Q2 2026 Earnings Call Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool

This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Net Income (Q2): $44.4 million, or $0.87 per diluted share, compared to $45 million ($0.89 per diluted share) in the prior-year quarter. Net Income (Year-to-Date): $91.3 million, or $1.79 per diluted share, versus $80.2 million ($1.59 per diluted share) in the prior-year period. Net Sales (Q2): Increased 4.6% to $319.8 million from $305.7 million in the prior-year quarter. Net Sales (Year-to-Date): Increased 5.3% to $608.6 million from $577.9 million in the prior-year period. Comparable Store Sales (Q2): Increased 2.1% for the quarter. Comparable Store Sales (Year-to-Date): Increased 3.5% for the 26-week period. Online Sales (Q2): Increased 2.3% to $44.6 million. Online Sales (Year-to-Date): Increased 2.5% to $92.2 million. Gross Margin (Q2): 47.8%, a 40 basis point increase from 47.4% in the prior-year quarter. Gross Margin (Year-to-Date): 47.1%, consistent with the prior-year period. Operating Margin (Q2): 17.4%, compared to 18.4% in the prior-year quarter. Operating Margin (Year-to-Date): 19%, compared to 17.3% in the prior-year period. SG&A Expenses (Q2): 30.4% of net sales, compared to 29.0% in the prior-year quarter. SG&A Expenses (Year-to-Date): 28.1% of sales, compared to 29.8% in the prior-year period. Inventory: $161.4 million, up 13.3% from the same time a year ago. Cash and Investments: $322.9 million at the end of the quarter. Capital Expenditures (Q2): $29.8 million; depreciation expense was $6.9 million. Capital Expenditures (Year-to-Date): $44.5 million; depreciation expense was $13.4 million. Store Count: Ended the quarter with 446 retail stores in 42 states, compared to 440 stores in 42 states at the end of the second quarter of 2025. Women's Business (Q2): Sales increased 9.5%, representing 50% of total sales (up from 47.5% last year). Men's Business (Q2): Sales remained essentially flat, representing 50% of total sales (down from 52.5% last year). Kids Business (Q2): Sales increased 11%. Accessory Sales (Q2): Increased approximately 2.5%, representing approximately 11.5% of net sales. Footwear Sales (Q2): Increased about 0.5%, representing approximately 5% of net sales. Private Label Business (Q2): Represented 44.5% of sales versus 43.5% in the prior-year quarter. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 2 Warning Sign with BKE. Is BKE fairly valued? Test your thesis with our free DCF calculator. Release Date: August 21, 2026 For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. Net sales increased 4.6% in Q2 and 5.3% year-to-date, with comparable store sales up 2.1% and 3.5%, respectively. Women's business grew 9.5% in Q2, with strong performance in denim (up 11%), alternative pants (up nearly 50%), and tops (up 10.5%). Kids business delivered another outstanding quarter, increasing 11% on top of a 23% increase in the prior year. Merchandise margins improved by 110 basis points in Q2, driven by strong regular price selling and reduced markdowns. Year-to-date net income increased to $91.3 million, up from $80.2 million in the prior year, reflecting strong profitability. Men's business remained flat in Q2, with men's denim sales declining approximately 3.5% year-over-year. SG&A expenses increased to 30.4% of net sales in Q2, up from 29.0%, due to higher marketing, labor, and health insurance costs. Inventory levels rose 13.3% year-over-year, potentially indicating slower sell-through or overstocking. Footwear sales increased only 0.5% in Q2, continuing a trend of softness in the category. Operating margin declined to 17.4% in Q2 from 18.4% in the prior year, reflecting increased expenses. Q: What drove the merchandise margin expansion beyond the tariff refunds, and are any additional tariff refunds expected in the back half of the year?A: CFO Thomas Heacock explained that total merchandise margins were up 110 basis points, which included a 65 basis point benefit from tariff refunds. Excluding that impact, margins were up 45 basis points, driven by a 100 basis point increase in private label sales, strong regular price selling, lower markdowns, and broad-based improvements in both men's and women's merchandise margins. He confirmed that all expected tariff refunds have been received, totaling $2.5 million, with a small residual amount flowing into Q3. Q: Can you provide more detail on the 45 basis point increase in marketing expenses and the expected return on that investment?A: CFO Thomas Heacock noted that the increase was spread across various initiatives, including CTV, Spotify, search, social creators, and email, with a focus on both guest acquisition and retention. He highlighted that part of the increase was due to rising costs from providers, not just higher spend. The company has invested in data and analytics tooling for the marketing team to improve insights and drive future programs, and they are pleased with the response so far. Q: Why has the women's business been outperforming the men's business recently?A: CEO Dennis Nelson attributed the women's strength to excitement around new products, fashion trends in denim and casuals, and the team's success in creating appealing collections. He described the men's business as more consistent and weather-sensitive but solid, expressing confidence in its performance despite the relative softness. Q: Footwear has seen 50 consecutive months of year-over-year volume declines. Is the category being deemphasized, and what accounts for the softness?A: CEO Dennis Nelson explained that the men's footwear business needs a strong brand like HEYDUDE to drive significant volume, which it had several years ago with exclusive styles. He noted that the ladies' footwear business is consistent but fashion-dependent, and that the overall footwear market is currently difficult for most retailers. The category remains a small part of the business until a new fashion item drives demand. Q: Are you seeing any impact from a delayed back-to-school season on recent sales trends?A: CEO Dennis Nelson acknowledged that tax-free holiday dates and school start times vary by state, which can create challenges for comparable sales in certain markets. However, he noted that these variations tend to average out across the total store base over time. For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

KEARNEY, Neb., August 21, 2026--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Buckle, Inc. (NYSE: BKE) announced today that net income for the fiscal quarter ended August 1, 2026 was $44.4 million, or $0.88 per share ($0.87 per share on a diluted basis). Net sales for the 13-week fiscal quarter ended August 1, 2026 increased 4.6 percent to $319.8 million from net sales of $305.7 million for the prior year 13-week fiscal quarter ended August 2, 2025. Comparable store net sales for the 13-week fiscal quarter ended August 1, 2026 increased 2.1 percent from comparable store net sales for the prior year 13-week period ended August 2, 2025. Online sales increased 2.3 percent to $44.6 million for the 13-week fiscal quarter ended August 1, 2026, compared to net sales of $43.6 million for the 13-week fiscal quarter ended August 2, 2025. Net sales for the 26-week fiscal period ended August 1, 2026 increased 5.3 percent to $608.6 million from net sales of $577.9 million for the prior year 26-week fiscal period ended August 2, 2025. Comparable store net sales for the 26-week period ended August 1, 2026 increased 3.5 percent from comparable store net sales for the prior year 26-week period ended August 2, 2025. Online sales increased 2.5 percent to $92.2 million for the 26-week period ended August 1, 2026, compared to net sales of $90.0 million for the 26-week period ended August 2, 2025. Net income for the second quarter of fiscal 2026 was $44.4 million, or $0.88 per share ($0.87 per share on a diluted basis), compared with net income of $45.0 million, or $0.90 per share ($0.89 per share on a diluted basis) for the second quarter of fiscal 2025. Net income for the 26-week fiscal period ended August 1, 2026 was $91.3 million, or $1.80 per share ($1.79 per share on a diluted basis), compared with net income of $80.2 million, or $1.60 per share ($1.59 per share on a diluted basis) for the 26-week period ended August 2, 2025. Management will hold a live audio webcast at 10:00 a.m. EDT today to discuss results for the quarter. To register for the live event, please visit https://buckle.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_RBdzPiI-RaGJ8MZl7H1VRA. A replay of the event can be accessed through Buckle’s investor relations website within twenty-four hours after the conclusion of the live event (https://corporate.buckle.com/investor-relations/events). About Buckle Buckle is a specialty retailer focused on delivering exceptional service and style through unforgettable experiences. Offering a curated mix of high-quality, on-trend apparel, accessories, and footwear, Buckle is for those living the styled life. Known as a denim destination, each store carries a wide selection of fits, styles, and finishes from leading denim brands, including the Company’s exclusive brand, BKE. Headquartered in Kearney, Nebraska, Buckle currently operates 447 retail stores in 42 states. As of the end of the fiscal quarter, it operated 446 stores in 42 states compared with 440 stores in 42 states at the end of the second quarter of fiscal 2025. SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995: All forward-looking statements made by the Company involve material risks and uncertainties and are subject to change based on factors which may be beyond the Company’s control. Accordingly, the Company’s future performance and financial results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, those described in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied therein will not be realized. Note: News releases and other information on The Buckle, Inc. can be accessed at www.buckle.com. Financial Tables to Follow View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260821582546/en/ Contacts Thomas B. Heacock, Chief Financial OfficerThe Buckle, Inc.(308) 236-8491

Our analysts just identified a stock with the potential to be the next Nvidia. Tell us how you invest and we'll show you why it's our #1 pick. Tap here. Performance was anchored by the women's business, which grew 9.5% on top of high prior-year comparisons, driven by a successful shift toward wider leg silhouettes and alternative pant categories. Merchandise margins expanded by 110 basis points, benefiting from 65 basis points of one-time tariff refunds and 45 basis points of underlying improvement from strong regular-price selling and reduced markdowns. The men's business remained flat as softness in higher-priced national brand denim was offset by the outperformance of private label offerings and growth in the tops category. Buckle reported an inventory of $161 million, an increase of 13.3% from the same period in the prior year. Operating margins faced pressure from a deliberate 45 basis point increase in marketing spend aimed at long-term guest acquisition and brand momentum. The 'Mini Me' styling trend continues to be a primary driver for the kids' business, which saw 11% growth as adult fashion trends successfully translated to younger demographics. The company plans to open 5 additional new stores and complete 4 full remodels in the second half of the year, continuing its shift toward outdoor shopping centers. Marketing investments are expected to continue across diverse channels including CTV, Spotify, and social creators, with a focus on leveraging new data analytics tools for better guest retention. Management anticipates a small residual impact from tariff refunds to flow into the third quarter, though the vast majority of the $2.5 million total has been recognized. Capital allocation remains focused on store footprint optimization and technology upgrades, alongside significant corporate infrastructure investments including a replacement aircraft. A $2.5 million tariff refund provided a significant one-time boost to gross margins, with approximately $2 million credited to cost of goods sold in the second quarter. SG&A expenses were impacted by rising costs from marketing providers and increased investments in data analytics tooling for the marketing team. Footwear continues to be a headwind, with management noting the category lacks a high-volume 'anchor' brand similar to previous years and remains difficult across the broader retail landscape. Store labor and health insurance benefits contributed a combined 65 basis point increase to the SG&A rate, reflecting broader inflationary pressures on human capital. One stock. Nvidia-level potential. 30M+ investors trust Moby to find it first. Get the pick. Tap here. Excluding the 65 basis point tariff impact, margins rose 45 basis points due to a 100 basis point increase in private label penetration and very clean inventory leading to fewer markdowns. Management noted that margin growth was broad-based across both men's and women's segments. The 45 basis point deleverage in marketing reflects both increased investment in new guest acquisition and rising costs from platform providers. Investments were spread across CTV, Spotify, search, and social creators, supported by new internal analytical tools to track ROI more effectively. Men's denim softness was concentrated in national brands, while private label denim remained a strength. Management admitted footwear will likely remain a small part of the business until a new 'fashion item' or major brand trend emerges to drive volume. Management noted that shifting tax-free holiday dates and varying school start dates across states create localized comp challenges. Despite these timing shifts, the company expects the impact to average out across the total store fleet over the full season.

Interested in Buckle, Inc. (The)? Here are five stocks we like better. Sales increased but quarterly earnings dipped: Second-quarter net sales rose 4.6% to $319.8 million, with comparable-store sales up 2.1% and online sales up 2.3%. Net income declined slightly to $44.4 million, or $0.87 per diluted share, as higher expenses offset sales and gross-margin gains. Women’s merchandise drove growth: Women’s sales rose 9.5%, led by denim, alternative pants and tops, while the women’s share of total sales increased to 50%. Men’s sales were flat, with weakness in men’s denim partly offset by growth in tops. Buckle continued investing in expansion: The retailer ended the quarter with 446 stores and plans five additional openings and four more remodels for the rest of the year. Inventory increased 13.3% year over year, while cash and investments totaled $322.9 million. 3 Small-Cap Stocks to Buy as the Russell 2000 Extends Its Rally Buckle (NYSE:BKE) reported second-quarter net income of $44.4 million, or $0.87 per diluted share, compared with $45 million, or $0.89 per diluted share, in the prior-year quarter, as higher sales and gross margin were offset by increased selling, general and administrative expenses. For the 13 weeks ended Aug. 1, 2026, net sales increased 4.6% to $319.8 million. Comparable-store sales rose 2.1%, while online sales increased 2.3% to $44.6 million. Year-to-date net income increased to $91.3 million, or $1.79 per diluted share, from $80.2 million, or $1.59 per diluted share, a year earlier. → Datavault AI Locks Down CyberCatch in $94M Security Rollup Compound your way to wealth with these retail stocks Chief Financial Officer Tom Heacock said year-to-date sales rose 5.3% to $608.6 million, with comparable-store sales up 3.5% and online sales up 2.5% to $92.2 million. The company reiterated that it does not provide forward sales or earnings guidance. Second-quarter gross margin increased 40 basis points from the prior year to 47.8%. Merchandise margins improved by 110 basis points, including a 65-basis-point benefit from tariff refunds received during the quarter. That improvement was partly offset by a 70-basis-point increase in buying, distribution and occupancy expenses associated with growth in new and relocated stores. → Nasdaq’s 23-Hour Trading Push Could Turn Global Liquidity Into a Growth Engine 3 Unstoppable Value Stocks You Did Not Expect Heacock said merchandise margin improvement excluding the tariff refunds reflected a higher private-label mix, strong regular-price selling, lower markdowns and solid sell-through of new products. Private-label merchandise represented 44.5% of sales during the quarter, compared with 43.5% a year earlier. The company received $2.5 million in tariff refunds during the quarter, according to Heacock. More than $2 million was credited to cost of goods sold, with most of the benefit already recognized and smaller amounts expected to flow into the second and third quarters. He said Buckle expects no additional tariff refunds. → Tesla's Cybercab Launch Could Reshape Margins for Uber and Lyft SG&A expenses rose to 30.4% of net sales from 29.0% in the prior-year quarter, contributing to an operating margin decline to 17.4% from 18.4%. The increase included higher marketing, store labor, health insurance benefits, store supplies and other expenses, partially offset by lower incentive and equity compensation accruals. Marketing expense increased by 45 basis points as Buckle expanded investments focused on customer acquisition and retention. Heacock said investments were spread across connected television, Spotify, search, social media, creators and email, while the company also experienced higher costs from marketing providers and invested in data and analytics tools. Vice President of Finance and Corporate Controller Adam Akerson said the women’s business increased 9.5% during the quarter, following an 18.5% gain in the comparable quarter of 2025. Women’s merchandise represented 50% of quarterly sales, up from 47.5% a year earlier. Women’s denim sales grew 11%, supported by demand across different leg openings and rises. Average women’s denim prices increased to $92.50 from $85.35 a year earlier. Alternative pants were the fastest-growing women’s segment, rising nearly 50%, driven by demand for prints, colors and wider-leg silhouettes. Women’s tops increased about 10.5%, while shorts accelerated during July. President and CEO Dennis Nelson attributed the women’s performance to consumer interest in new product, fashion, denim and casual apparel, as well as coordinated merchandise groups featuring tops and the company’s brands. Men’s sales were essentially flat from the prior year and represented 50% of sales, down from 52.5% a year ago. Men’s denim sales declined about 3.5%, although private-label denim outperformed as weakness was concentrated in higher-priced national brands. Men’s tops increased 3.5%, with graphic tees, short-sleeve woven shirts, polos and hoodies contributing to results. Accessory sales increased approximately 2.5%, while footwear sales rose about 0.5%. Nelson said footwear remains a steady business but that the men’s category would likely remain smaller until a new fashion item or major brand drives greater volume. He added that footwear conditions appear difficult for many retailers. The kids business increased 11%, building on a 23% increase in the prior-year second quarter. Akerson said growth was broad-based across denim, shorts, casual bottoms and tees, with “mini-me” styling supporting demand. Buckle ended the quarter with 446 retail stores in 42 states, compared with 440 stores in 42 states a year earlier. During the quarter, the company opened five stores, completed five full remodels—four of which were relocations to new outdoor shopping centers—and closed one store. After quarter-end, Buckle opened another location, bringing its year-to-date total to nine new stores, 10 full remodels and two closures. The company expects to open five additional stores and complete four more full remodel projects during the remainder of the year. Inventory totaled $161.4 million at quarter-end, up 13.3% from a year earlier. Buckle reported $322.9 million in total cash and investments and $191.7 million in fixed assets, net of accumulated depreciation. Quarterly capital expenditures were $29.8 million, including year-to-date spending on stores, remodels, technology upgrades, corporate headquarters and distribution center projects, as well as a replacement corporate aircraft. Buckle, Inc is a retailer specializing in casual apparel, footwear and accessories for young men and women. The company is known for its denim-focused collections, offering both private-label lines and curated brand-name merchandise. Its product assortment includes jeans, tops, outerwear, shoes and a variety of accessories such as belts, jewelry and handbags, all aimed at blending contemporary style with everyday comfort. Founded in 1948 in Kearney, Nebraska, Buckle began as a single clothing store and has since expanded into a nationwide chain. This instant news alert was generated by narrative science technology and financial data from MarketBeat in order to provide readers with the fastest reporting and unbiased coverage. Please send any questions or comments about this story to [email protected]. The article "Buckle Q2 Earnings Call Highlights" was originally published by MarketBeat. View MarketBeat's top stocks for August 2026.

Find your next quality investment with Simply Wall St's easy and powerful screener, trusted by over 7 million individual investors worldwide. Buckle (BKE) is back in focus after reporting higher sales and earnings for the recent quarter, ongoing comparable store sales growth, and affirming a $0.35 per share quarterly dividend, even as UBS trimmed its valuation view. See our latest analysis for Buckle. Despite Buckle’s stronger recent sales and earnings, the stock’s share price return has slipped about 15% over the past month and 17% year to date, while longer term total shareholder returns over three and five years remain solid. This suggests that underlying momentum has been more resilient than recent trading implies. If Buckle’s mix of income and long run compounding has your attention, it can be useful to widen your search and look at 20 top founder-led companies With Buckle’s share price down while sales, earnings, and dividends hold up, and the stock trading below both UBS’s US$47 target and one intrinsic value estimate, should you see mispricing here or a market that is already banking on future growth? With Buckle last closing at $44.60 against a most-followed fair value estimate of $52, the current narrative frames the recent share pullback as a discount rather than a reset. Read the complete narrative. Want to see what is really behind that fair value gap? The narrative leans on steady revenue progress, resilient margins, and a future earnings multiple below many peers. Curious how those moving parts line up to reach $52? Result: Fair Value of $52 (UNDERVALUED) Have a read of the narrative in full and understand what's behind the forecasts. However, that fair value gap can close quickly if mall-dependent foot traffic keeps softening or if rising inventory forces heavier markdowns and weaker margins. Wall Street's queuing for one rocket. While SpaceX counts down to its IPO, other companies tied to the new space race are already in orbit. → 20 Compelling Space Companies watchlist · Global Space Race Investing Ideas screener · Scan the sector by valuation on Rocket Lab's valuation page. If this mix of optimism and caution has you thinking, do not wait to see how it plays out from the sidelines. Instead, take a closer look at the 2 key rewards and 3 important warning signs You do not have to stop with one stock. Use clear, focused screens to surface other opportunities that match the kind of portfolio you want to build. Target reliable cash generators by scanning 10 dividend fortresses that can support income-focused portfolios. Hunt for potential mispriced opportunities with the 47 high quality undervalued stocks and compare how their fundamentals stack up before the crowd catches on. Prioritize stability and capital preservation by using the 62 resilient stocks with low risk scores to spot companies with more resilient profiles. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include BKE. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email [email protected]