EVENTS:   Acceleration in the Energy Transition - David Scott/CHA-AM Advisors - 12 May 26     ROADSHOWS: Consumer Research & Industry Trends focused on US Retail, E-Tail, and Consumer Products Companies - Scott Mushkin /R5 Capital   •   London   07 - 08 May 26       US Equity Short Research & Strategy - Zach Shannon /Corto Capital Advisors   •   New York   18 - 19 May 26       Investing in Constraint: Governance, Scarcity, and the Next Phase of the Energy Transition - François Boutin-Dufresne & Félix-A. Boudreault & Lenka Martinek /Sustainable Market Strategies   •   London   18 - 19 May 26      
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The Cut

Fortnightly publication highlighting latest insights from IRF providers

Company Research

Consumer Discretionary

Report by The Retail Tracker

The shift from puffer-only to broader fashion outerwear (wool, shearling, fur) has expanded consumers’ wardrobes, with MONC well positioned at the intersection of function and luxury. Its core styles are not overly trend-led, supporting their status as long-term investment pieces with resale value. Pricing sits above Canada Goose and Herno, but below Prada and Loro Piana, sustaining an attractive premium tier. Beyond outerwear, The Retail Tracker sees opportunity in functional yet fashionable handbags (e.g., a travel line between Rimowa and Away). Footwear remains strong but still lacks a viral breakout moment. Meanwhile, early signs of a streetwear revival could lift visibility for Stone Island and help the brand extend beyond its core. Under new leadership, renewed energy in the stock could support a move back towards the 52-week high.

There are two lanes in retail winning right now - momentum and improvement

Consumer Discretionary

Report by The Retail Tracker

Brands with good momentum include Lululemon, Abercrombie, Chico’s, Steve Madden, LVMH, Prada, Ralph Lauren and Macy’s. According to The Retail Tracker, these retailers are entering the back half of the year with the consumer on their side and good assortments. In the improvement lane, they highlight Gap, Target, American Eagle, Bath & Body Works and Nike. They also like the risk:reward in two currently out of favour names - Williams-Sonoma (a high-quality company, with exceptional brands / leadership) and Victoria's Secret (left for dead / trades at a steep discount).