Goldman Sachs upgraded V.F. Corp. (NYSE:VFC) to Buy from Sell, with an increased price target of $27, citing the stock’s nearing inflection point with the balance of catalysts for the stock now weighted to the upside.
The analysts noted that the company’s extreme underperformance over the past two years coupled with the company’s turnaround initiatives will drive relative outperformance in the stock.
Goldman listed several key bullish developments for the company, including a stronger product innovation pipeline at Vans, better retail merchandising, and wholesale distribution optimization, which should help stem declines in North America revenues. Additionally, enhanced operational focus with better inventory management and cost control is expected to deliver stronger free cash flow in 2024.
The company’s strategic optionality from new management is also a positive, as it is in talks to find a new permanent CEO and has recently appointed new heads at Vans, Dickies, and emerging brands.