DIYWallST Recession Proof Investing Sneak Peek (April Edition)
Recession Proof Investing, DIYWallST, Stock Picks, Investment Newsletter, Investing, Five Below (FIVE), AstraZeneca plc (AZN)
In the vast universe of stock investing, diving deep into the right stocks is both an art and a science. At DIYWallST, we've mastered that balance. Today, we're giving you a glimpse into our process and expertise.
Why DIYWallST?
Our commitment transcends a mere brand name; it's a pledge to guide you through the maze of stocks. We take pride in our in-depth research, understanding of market dynamics, and genuine care for your financial journey.
Five Below, Inc. (FIVE) is a fast-growing value retailer offering a broad range of trend-right, quality merchandise targeted at tweens, teens, and value-conscious shoppers. The company continues to expand its store footprint and optimize operations while maintaining a strong focus on affordability and customer experience.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Strong Annual Sales Growth: Fiscal 2024 net sales grew 8.9% year-over-year to $3.88 billion, or 10.4% growth excluding the 53rd week. Comparable store sales declined 2.7%, but total revenue gains were driven by new store openings.
Earnings & Profitability: Adjusted diluted EPS for FY24 was $5.04, down slightly from $5.41 in FY23 due to one-time expenses and a challenging consumer backdrop. Q4 adjusted EPS came in at $3.48, exceeding internal expectations.
Aggressive Store Expansion: Five Below opened 227 net new stores in FY24, ending the year with 1,771 locations across 44 states. The company expects to open approximately 150 new stores in FY25, further expanding its national footprint.
2025 Guidance: For fiscal 2025, Five Below projects net sales between $4.21 billion and $4.33 billion and adjusted EPS between $4.10 and $4.72. This reflects a modest increase in comparable sales and a focus on efficiency amid macroeconomic uncertainty.
Strategic Focus: CEO Winnie Park emphasized a renewed focus on Five Below’s core customer—“the kid and the kid in all of us”—with a sharper merchandising strategy, operational improvements, and simplified pricing aimed at reinforcing value and excitement across its product categories.
AstraZeneca plc (AZN) is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines in oncology, rare diseases, and bio-pharmaceuticals, including cardiovascular, renal, metabolism, respiratory, and immunology therapies.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Record Financial Performance: For FY 2024, AstraZeneca reported total revenue of $54.1 billion, up 21% at constant exchange rates (CER). Core EPS rose 19% to $8.21, and operating profit climbed 32% to $10.0 billion, reflecting broad-based growth across therapeutic areas.
Oncology Leadership: Oncology revenue reached $22.4 billion, up 24%, with standout growth from Tagrisso (+21%), Imfinzi (+18%), Enhertu (+54%), and Calquence (+20%). The company achieved 9 high-value Phase III readouts in 2024, setting the stage for blockbuster potential in 2025.
Pipeline and Innovation: AstraZeneca secured 8 new molecular entity (NME) approvals in 2024, progressing toward its goal of 20 NMEs by 2030. The company anticipates 7 Phase III readouts for NMEs in 2025, focused on high-impact areas like breast cancer, COPD, and rare diseases.
Rare Disease Expansion: Rare disease revenue grew 16% to $8.8 billion, led by Ultomiris (+33%), Strensiq (+37%), and Koselugo (+97%). The pipeline includes first-in-class therapies such as efzimfotase alfa and anselamimab, poised to address high unmet needs.
2025 Outlook and Strategic Ambition: AstraZeneca projects high single-digit revenue growth and low double-digit EPS growth for FY 2025. It reaffirmed its ambition to reach $80 billion in revenue by 2030, supported by a robust pipeline, global demand for innovative medicines, and a strong manufacturing footprint.
🚀 Stay Ahead & Build Your Wealth with DIYWallST
You don’t have to navigate the market alone. DIYWallST is here to support you every step of the way. Have questions? Reach out anytime—we’re in this together.
For the latest updates, trade insights, and exclusive stock picks, and live chatroom join our discord through https://whop.com/diywallst/ or continue to received our locked recession picks thru Substack Premium.
