Ulta Beauty Option Alert: Sep 19 $300 Calls at the Ask: 100 vs 9 OI

Ulta Beauty Option Alert: Sep 19 $300 Calls at the Ask: 100 @ $66.4 vs 9 OI; Ref=$344.0699

Ulta Beauty (NASDAQ:ULTA) Stock

ULTA BEAUTY INC

Ulta Beauty

With more than 1,400 freestanding stores and 600 Target shop-in-shops, Ulta Beauty is the largest specialized beauty retailer in the US. The firm offers cosmetics (39% of 2024 sales), fragrances (13%), skin care (23%), and hair care products (19%). It also offers salon services, including hair, makeup, skin, and brow, that account for about 4% of its revenue and drive traffic. In addition, it collects royalties through its Target partnership and credit card revenue. Most standalone Ulta stores are approximately 10,000 square feet and are in suburban strip centers. The firm will soon open franchised stores in Mexico and has formed a joint venture to expand into the Middle East. Ulta was founded in 1990 and is based in Bolingbrook, Illinois.

Ulta Beauty Inc

On Thursday, Goldman Sachs analyst Brooke Roach discussed the impact of the U.S. reciprocal tariffs on retail companies.
On April 2, President Trump announced reciprocal tariffs, including a 10% hike on all countries except Mexico and Canada, with higher rates for select nations with trade deficits.
The most significant retail impact is expected from increased tariffs on major sourcing partners like Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Cambodia, said the analyst.
The U.S. is significantly raising tariffs on imports, with China&#8217;s tariff rate increasing to 54% (up from 20%). Other key sourcing countries like Vietnam (46%), Indonesia (32%), Bangladesh (37%), Cambodia (49%), and India (27%) will also see tariff hikes, while EU imports face a 20% tariff.
Canada and Mexico remain exempt under USMCA, though non-USMCA compliant goods will be taxed at 12%. Overall, apparel and footwear tariffs are estimated to rise to an average of 38%, noted the analyst.
Additionally, the de minimis duty-free exemption for packages under $800 from China and Hong Kong will end on May 1, 2025.
These shipments will face a 30% tariff or $25 per item, increasing to $50 per item after June 1, 2025. The Secretary of Commerce will review within 90 days whether to expand this policy to Macau.
The newly announced tariffs will pressure brands and retailers, forcing them to adjust pricing, negotiate with vendors, and optimize costs to protect margins.
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While most companies will be affected, some are less exposed, including brands with lower U.S. sales exposure like Amer Sports Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AS#NYSE">AS</a>), Canada Goose Holdings Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOS#NYSE">GOOS</a>) and PVH Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PVH#NYSE">PVH</a>). Retailers with indirect sourcing, such as department stores and off-price retailers, could benefit from supply chain disruptions.
Companies that do not source their product from international markets or source from exempt regions, such as Savers Value Village Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SVV#NYSE">SVV</a>) with thrift business model and Kontoor Brands Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KTB#NYSE">KTB</a>) reliance on Mexico, though it also sources from Bangladesh, are less exposed.
The analyst notes that brands with momentum and strong consumer engagement are likely to have more substantial relative pricing power in the marketplace overall.
The analyst noted higher exposure to incrementally new tariffs from Vietnam and Cambodia-exposed businesses include sportswear like Lululemon Athletica Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LULU#NASDAQ">LULU</a>), Nike Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NKE#NYSE">NKE</a>) and general apparel like Torrid Holdings Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURV#NYSE">CURV</a>), Figs Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FIGS#NYSE">FIGS</a>), Victoria&#8217;s Secret &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VSCO#NYSE">VSCO</a>), and Gap Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GAP#NYSE">GAP</a>).
The Home Furnishings industry with companies like RH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RH#NYSE">RH</a>) and Williams-Sonoma Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WSM#NYSE">WSM</a>) faces the greatest risk from tariffs due to its high exposure to China and Vietnam and the discretionary nature of its products.
RH sources 72% of its products from Asia, including 23% from China and 35% from Vietnam, while WSM has 23% China and 14% Vietnam exposure.
Retailers Five Below Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FIVE#NASDAQ">FIVE</a>) and Best Buy Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BBY#NYSE">BBY</a>) are also vulnerable, with 60% of their products sourced from China. While Vietnam exposure remains unclear for most industries, home furnishing companies have the highest risk, said the analyst.
On the other hand, Auto Parts companies like Advance Auto Parts Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAP#NYSE">AAP</a>), AutoZone Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZO#NYSE">AZO</a>) and O&#8217;Reilly Automotive Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORLY#NASDAQ">ORLY</a>) and Home Improvement retailers like Home Depot Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HD#NYSE">HD</a>) and Lowe&#8217;s Companies Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LOW#NYSE">LOW</a>) are better positioned, as they can pass increased costs.
Similarly, retailers that sell food like Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>), BJ&#8217;s Wholesale Club Holdings Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BJ#NYSE">BJ</a>), and Costco Wholesale Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COST#NASDAQ">COST</a>) are relatively insulated.
Companies with minimal reliance on China, such as Ulta Beauty Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>) and Bath &amp; Body Works Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BBWI#NYSE">BBWI</a>), are also well-positioned against these tariffs.
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Goldman Sachs Warns Tariffs Will Hit Apparel And Home Furnishings Hardest, Highlights Most Exposed Stocks

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Shares of companies within retail, apparel, and e-commerce industries are trading lower amid heavy selling pressure as markets react to President Trump's tariff announcements, which may hamper consumer spending.

TSCO

Shares of retail, apparel, and e-commerce companies are trading higher. Investors may be interpreting the release of better-than-expected ADP employment data as a sign of strength for the industry.

While the prestige and mass beauty industry segments in 2024 have rebounded, growth 7% and 3%, respectively, Ulta Beauty Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>) is gaining back market share, according to Goldman Sachs.
The Ulta Beauty Analyst: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/58580bcbee7bf60001bcfa29/kate-mcshane">Analyst Kate McShane</a> upgraded the rating from Neutral to Buy, while raising the price target from $384 to $423.
The Ulta Beauty Thesis: The company's quarter-to-date trends appear to be in-line with the current comp guidance, "with some acceleration in sales observed recently," McShane said in the upgrade note.
Check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">other analyst stock ratings</a>.
Ulta Beauty's monthly active users have been growing since November 2024, while February app downloads have risen by 9% year-over-year, she added.
"We believe competition could be less of a headwind with recent work pointing to improving trends for ULTA NPI v. Sephora," the analyst wrote.
Management's 2025 guidance could prove conservative, she stated.
"Finally, we note tariff risk is low for Ulta, while the stock has seen pressure but proved resilient during recessionary periods," McShane further said.
ULTA Price Action: Shares of Ulta Beauty had risen by 2.25% to $374.80 at the time of publication on Tuesday.
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Price Target

Ulta Beauty's Q1 Comp Momentum Turns This Analyst Bullish, Plus 'Tariff Risk Is Low'

In the preceding three months, 28 analysts have released ratings for Ulta Beauty (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>), presenting a wide array of perspectives from bullish to bearish.
The table below summarizes their recent ratings, showcasing the evolving sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">7</td>
<td align="right">15</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">7</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">8</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
In the assessment of 12-month price targets, analysts unveil insights for Ulta Beauty, presenting an average target of $433.68, a high estimate of $538.00, and a low estimate of $310.00. A negative shift in sentiment is evident as analysts have decreased the average price target by 3.0%. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1743512447_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Investigating Analyst Ratings: An Elaborate Study</h2>
The analysis of recent analyst actions sheds light on the perception of Ulta Beauty by financial experts. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Kate McShane</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$423.00</td>
<td>$384.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kelly Crago</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$365.00</td>
<td>$405.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Adrienne Yih</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$327.00</td>
<td>$445.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Susan Anderson</td>
<td>Canaccord Genuity</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$526.00</td>
<td>$538.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Simeon Siegel</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$404.00</td>
<td>$467.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Baker</td>
<td>DA Davidson</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$415.00</td>
<td>$510.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christopher Horvers</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$475.00</td>
<td>$480.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Korinne Wolfmeyer</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$364.00</td>
<td>$425.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mark Astrachan</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$475.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ike Boruchow</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Underweight</td>
<td>$310.00</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anna Glaessgen</td>
<td>B. Riley Securities</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$330.00</td>
<td>$430.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lorraine Hutchinson</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
<td>$475.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dana Telsey</td>
<td>Telsey Advisory Group</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$460.00</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Simeon Gutman</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$460.00</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dana Telsey</td>
<td>Telsey Advisory Group</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Simeon Gutman</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$430.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Adrienne Yih</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$445.00</td>
<td>$410.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oliver Chen</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$480.00</td>
<td>$450.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Susan Anderson</td>
<td>Canaccord Genuity</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$538.00</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kelly Crago</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$457.00</td>
<td>$450.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lorraine Hutchinson</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$475.00</td>
<td>$460.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anna Glaessgen</td>
<td>B. Riley Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$430.00</td>
<td>$330.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mark Astrachan</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$475.00</td>
<td>$455.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ike Boruchow</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Underweight</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Korinne Wolfmeyer</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$425.00</td>
<td>$394.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rupesh Parikh</td>
<td>Oppenheimer</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$515.00</td>
<td>$505.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dana Telsey</td>
<td>Telsey Advisory Group</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Korinne Wolfmeyer</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$394.00</td>
<td>$390.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Ulta Beauty. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Offering insights into predictions, analysts assign qualitative values, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Ulta Beauty compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts navigate through adjustments in price targets, providing estimates for Ulta Beauty's future value. Comparing current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.</li>
</ul>
Assessing these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators can provide a comprehensive overview of Ulta Beauty's market position. Stay informed and make well-judged decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ULTA/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Ulta Beauty analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Get to Know Ulta Beauty Better</h2>
With more than 1,400 freestanding stores and a partnership with Target, Ulta Beauty is the largest specialized beauty retailer in the US. The firm offers makeup (41% of 2023 sales), fragrances, skin care (19% of sales), and hair care products (19% of sales), and bath and body items. Ulta offers private-label products and more than 600 individual brands. It also offers salon services, including hair, makeup, skin, and brow services, in all stores. Most Ulta stores are approximately 10,000 square feet and are in suburban strip centers. The firm intends to open franchises in Mexico in 2025. Ulta was founded in 1990 and is based in Bolingbrook, Illinois.
<h3>Ulta Beauty: A Financial Overview</h3>
Market Capitalization: Exceeding industry standards, the company's market capitalization places it above industry average in size relative to peers. This emphasizes its significant scale and robust market position.
Revenue Growth: Ulta Beauty's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 31 January, 2025, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 37.85%. This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company stands out with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Consumer Discretionary sector.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive net margin of 11.28%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 16.33%, the company showcases effective utilization of equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Ulta Beauty's ROA excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 6.58%. This signifies efficient management of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Ulta Beauty's debt-to-equity ratio is below industry norms, indicating a sound financial structure with a ratio of 0.77.
<h2>What Are Analyst Ratings?</h2>
Analyst ratings serve as essential indicators of stock performance, provided by experts in banking and financial systems. These specialists diligently analyze company financial statements, participate in conference calls, and engage with insiders to generate quarterly ratings for individual stocks.
In addition to their assessments, some analysts extend their insights by offering predictions for key metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates. This supplementary information provides further guidance for traders. It is crucial to recognize that, despite their specialization, analysts are human and can only provide forecasts based on their beliefs.
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Forecasting The Future: 28 Analyst Projections For Ulta Beauty

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades, downgrades and initiations, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Goldman Sachs analyst Kate McShane upgraded the rating for AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZO#NYSE">AZO</a>) from Sell to Neutral and raised the price target from $3,044 to $3,811. AutoZone shares closed at $3,812.78 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/azo/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Goldman Sachs analyst Kate McShane upgraded Ulta Beauty, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>) from Neutral to Buy and boosted the price target from $384 to $423. Ulta Beauty shares closed at $366.54 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ulta/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>TD Securities analyst Andrew Charles upgraded First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FWRG#NASDAQ">FWRG</a>) from Hold to Buy and raised the price target from $21 to $22. First Watch Restaurant shares closed at $16.65 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/fwrg/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Loop Capital analyst Alton Stump upgraded Shake Shack Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHAK#NYSE">SHAK</a>) from Hold to Buy and announced a $127 price target. Shake Shack shares closed at $88.17 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AFRM/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
</ul>
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This AutoZone Analyst Is No Longer Bearish; Here Are Top 4 Upgrades For Tuesday

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades and downgrades, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Goldman Sachs cut Genuine Parts Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GPC#NYSE">GPC</a>) price target from $133 to $114. Goldman Sachs analyst Kate McShane downgraded the stock from Neutral to Sell. Genuine Parts shares closed at $119.14 on Monday.<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GPC/analyst-ratings"> See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Needham slashed the price target for Vaxcyte, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCVX#NASDAQ">PCVX</a>) from $140 to $90. Needham analyst Joseph Stringer maintained a Buy rating. Vaxcyte shares closed at $37.76 on Monday. See how other analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PCVX/analyst-ratings">view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Goldman Sachs raised Ulta Beauty, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>) price target from $384 to $423. Goldman Sachs analyst Kate McShane upgraded the stock from Neutral to Buy. Ulta Beauty shares closed at $366.54 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ULTA/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>TD Securities increased the price target for First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FWRG#NASDAQ">FWRG</a>) from $21 to $22. TD Securities analyst Andrew Charles upgraded the stock from Hold to Buy. First Watch Restaurant shares closed at $16.65 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FWRG/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>HC Wainwright &amp; Co. raised the price target for BiomX Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PHGE#NYSE">PHGE</a>) from $2 to $21. HC Wainwright &amp; Co. analyst Joseph Pantginis maintained a Buy rating. BiomX shares closed at $0.5557 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PHGE/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>D. Boral Capital cut Reviva Pharmaceuticals Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RVPH#NASDAQ">RVPH</a>) price target from $15 to $8. D. Boral Capital analyst Jason Kolbert maintained a Buy rating. Reviva Pharmaceuticals shares settled at $0.9538 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/RVPH/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Mizuho cut PBF Energy Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PBF#NYSE">PBF</a>) price target from $28 to $22. Mizuho analyst Nitin Kumar maintained an Underperform rating. PBF Energy shares closed at $19.09 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PBF/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>B of A Securities raised Travere Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TVTX#NASDAQ">TVTX</a>) price target from $29 to $31. B of A Securities analyst Greg Harrison maintained a Buy rating. Travere Therapeutics shares closed at $17.92 on Monday. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TVTX/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>B of A Securities slashed the price target for Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KNX#NYSE">KNX</a>) from $66 to $46. B of A Securities analyst Ken Hoexter downgraded the stock from Buy to Neutral. Knight-Swift Transportation shares settled at $43.49 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/KNX/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Jefferies cut Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>) price target from $85 to $46. Jefferies analyst Sheila Kahyaoglu downgraded the stock from Buy to Hold. Delta Air shares closed at $43.60 on Monday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DAL/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
</ul>
Considering buying ULTA stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="579" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/01084306/image-12-1024x579.png" alt="" class="wp-image-851127" style="width:621px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/01084306/image-12-1024x579.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/01084306/image-12-300x170.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/01084306/image-12-768x434.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/01084306/image-12.png 1100w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Photo via Shutterstock

PCVX

PHGE

RVPH

TVTX

Ulta Beauty To Rally Over 15%? Here Are 10 Top Analyst Forecasts For Tuesday

Goldman Sachs analyst Kate McShane upgrades Ulta Beauty (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>) from Neutral to Buy and raises the price target from $384 to $423.

Goldman Sachs Upgrades Ulta Beauty to Buy, Raises Price Target to $423

Shares of e-commerce, retail, and apparel stocks are trading lower following greater-than-expected inflation data measured through the PCE price index for February, while personal spending missed estimates. Additionally, recent tariff announcements may be weighing on equities.

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on Ulta Beauty (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with ULTA, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
So how do we know what these investors just did? 
Today, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 10 uncommon options trades for Ulta Beauty.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 10% bullish and 80%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 7 are puts, for a total amount of $290,118, and 3 are calls, for a total amount of $265,510.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $240.0 and $400.0 for Ulta Beauty, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in Ulta Beauty's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Ulta Beauty's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $240.0 to $400.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>Ulta Beauty 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1743102171_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th align="right">Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$78.4</td>
<td>$78.0</td>
<td>$78.0</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
<td>$156.0K</td>
<td align="right">38</td>
<td align="right">21</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>03/20/26</td>
<td>$151.1</td>
<td>$143.4</td>
<td>$147.71</td>
<td>$240.00</td>
<td>$73.8K</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$22.7</td>
<td>$22.0</td>
<td>$22.7</td>
<td>$345.00</td>
<td>$68.3K</td>
<td align="right">92</td>
<td align="right">118</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$22.8</td>
<td>$22.0</td>
<td>$22.8</td>
<td>$345.00</td>
<td>$41.0K</td>
<td align="right">92</td>
<td align="right">164</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$22.8</td>
<td>$21.9</td>
<td>$22.8</td>
<td>$345.00</td>
<td>$41.0K</td>
<td align="right">92</td>
<td align="right">72</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Ulta Beauty</h3>
With more than 1,400 freestanding stores and a partnership with Target, Ulta Beauty is the largest specialized beauty retailer in the US. The firm offers makeup (41% of 2023 sales), fragrances, skin care (19% of sales), and hair care products (19% of sales), and bath and body items. Ulta offers private-label products and more than 600 individual brands. It also offers salon services, including hair, makeup, skin, and brow services, in all stores. Most Ulta stores are approximately 10,000 square feet and are in suburban strip centers. The firm intends to open franchises in Mexico in 2025. Ulta was founded in 1990 and is based in Bolingbrook, Illinois.
<h3>Present Market Standing of Ulta Beauty</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 437,585, with ULTA's price down by -1.4%, positioned at $366.7.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 63 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Ulta Beauty</h3>
A total of 5 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $412.8.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=options-activity&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from DA Davidson continues to hold a Buy rating for Ulta Beauty, targeting a price of $415. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Citigroup keeps a Neutral rating on Ulta Beauty with a target price of $365. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Telsey Advisory Group persists with their Outperform rating on Ulta Beauty, maintaining a target price of $460. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Piper Sandler has decided to maintain their Neutral rating on Ulta Beauty, which currently sits at a price target of $364. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Morgan Stanley has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on Ulta Beauty, which currently sits at a price target of $460. 
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Ulta Beauty with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Options

Ulta Beauty Unusual Options Activity For March 27

Shares of retail, apparel, and e-commerce companies are trading higher amid overall market strength on reports of potentially narrowed or targeted tariffs, which may be easing investor concerns.

Rumors

Watching Ulta Beauty; Unconfirmed Analyst Comments Circulate 'Walmart Is Making A More Significant Push Into Beauty, Expanding Its Premium Beauty Offering, Today Added Numerous Brands On Its Beauty Marketplace And Plans To Add More'

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bullish approach towards Ulta Beauty (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in ULTA usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 21 extraordinary options activities for Ulta Beauty. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 57% leaning bullish and 42% bearish. Among these notable options, 19 are puts, totaling $1,005,628, and 2 are calls, amounting to $75,210.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $305.0 to $370.0 for Ulta Beauty over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in Ulta Beauty's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Ulta Beauty's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $305.0 to $370.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>Ulta Beauty Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742328034_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th align="right">Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$8.0</td>
<td>$7.8</td>
<td>$8.0</td>
<td>$355.00</td>
<td>$200.0K</td>
<td align="right">487</td>
<td align="right">255</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$12.1</td>
<td>$10.6</td>
<td>$11.64</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
<td>$112.9K</td>
<td align="right">112</td>
<td align="right">107</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$17.1</td>
<td>$16.8</td>
<td>$16.8</td>
<td>$305.00</td>
<td>$77.2K</td>
<td align="right">9</td>
<td align="right">142</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$40.9</td>
<td>$40.4</td>
<td>$40.4</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
<td>$72.7K</td>
<td align="right">61</td>
<td align="right">19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$16.7</td>
<td>$16.5</td>
<td>$16.7</td>
<td>$305.00</td>
<td>$63.4K</td>
<td align="right">9</td>
<td align="right">38</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Ulta Beauty</h3>
With more than 1,400 freestanding stores and a partnership with Target, Ulta Beauty is the largest specialized beauty retailer in the US. The firm offers makeup (41% of 2023 sales), fragrances, skin care (19% of sales), and hair care products (19% of sales), and bath and body items. Ulta offers private-label products and more than 600 individual brands. It also offers salon services, including hair, makeup, skin, and brow services, in all stores. Most Ulta stores are approximately 10,000 square feet and are in suburban strip centers. The firm intends to open franchises in Mexico in 2025. Ulta was founded in 1990 and is based in Bolingbrook, Illinois.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Ulta Beauty, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Current Position of Ulta Beauty</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 909,418, the price of ULTA is down by -1.64%, reaching $351.12.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 72 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Ulta Beauty</h3>
A total of 5 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $363.8.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=options-activity&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Piper Sandler continues to hold a Neutral rating for Ulta Beauty, targeting a price of $364. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Stifel persists with their Hold rating on Ulta Beauty, maintaining a target price of $400. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from DA Davidson continues to hold a Buy rating for Ulta Beauty, targeting a price of $415. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from B. Riley Securities continues to hold a Neutral rating for Ulta Beauty, targeting a price of $330. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Wells Fargo persists with their Underweight rating on Ulta Beauty, maintaining a target price of $310. 
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Ulta Beauty, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Spotlight on Ulta Beauty: Analyzing the Surge in Options Activity

Ulta Beauty's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NYSE">ULTA</a>) short percent of float has fallen 13.4% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 2.36 million shares sold short, which is 6.59% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.4 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Ulta Beauty Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742302819_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Ulta Beauty has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Ulta Beauty's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Ulta Beauty's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 13.18%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

How Do Investors Really Feel About Ulta Beauty?

Citigroup analyst Kelly Crago maintains Ulta Beauty (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>) with a Neutral and lowers the price target from $405 to $365.

Citigroup Maintains Neutral on Ulta Beauty, Lowers Price Target to $365

Stocks staged a sharp rebound on Friday as concerns over a potential government shutdown eased after Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) opted not to veto <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44320221/chuck-schumer-says-a-government-shutdown-will-give-trump-the-keys-to-the-city-state-and-country-and-elon-musk-the-chance-to-destroy-government-services">a Republican spending bill. </a>
The S&amp;P 500 jumped 1.9%, eyeing track for its strongest daily rally since November 6, 2024, when investors piled into equities following Donald Trump&#8216;s presidential election victory. 
Tech stocks and small caps both gained 2.3%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.5%. 
Despite Friday's gains, the broader market remains deeply in the red for the week, with the S&amp;P 500 heading for its fourth consecutive weekly decline, marking the longest losing streak since May 2022. 
All S&amp;P 500 sectors traded in positive territory on Friday, though only utilities and energy are poised to end the week with gains.
Economic data painted a concerning picture. The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/03/44331170/us-consumer-confidence-plunges-as-inflation-fears-hit-highest-level-since-1993">University of Michigan&#8217;s consumer sentiment index</a> fell more than anticipated, while inflation expectations spiked. A key gauge tracking five-year forward inflation expectations among consumers climbed to 3.9%, the highest level since March 1993.
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) surged 4% to $84,000, flipping to weekly gains and lifting other crypto-related assets. Meanwhile, gold, as tracked by the SPDR Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>), was flat on the day but reached a historic milestone, hitting $3,000 per ounce for the first time ever. 
The precious metal is on pace to post its tenth positive week in the past eleven, outperforming all major asset classes year-to-date.
Stock markets also rallied worldwide. Chinese equities soared on expectations of increased government stimulus, while European stocks surged after Germany secured a historic deal to raise its debt ceiling.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Friday&#8217;s Performance In Major US Indices, ETFs</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Major Indices</td>
<td>Price</td>
<td>1-day %chg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>19,636.47</td>
<td>2.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>2,038.13</td>
<td>2.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>5,615.85</td>
<td>1.8%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>41,408.07</td>
<td>1.5%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Updated as of 1:30 p.m. ET</figcaption></figure>
According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Benzinga Pro</a>&nbsp;data:
<ul>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) rose 1.8% to $561.04.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) rose 1.5% to $414.39.</li>
<li>The tech-heavy&nbsp;Invesco QQQ Trust Series&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>)&nbsp;rallied 2.3% to $477.99.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) surged 2.3% to 203.12 </li>
<li>The&nbsp;Energy&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>) outperformed, up 2.6%; the&nbsp;Consumer Staples&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) was the laggard, up 0.1%.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Friday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h3>
Stocks reacting to earnings report included: 
<ul>
<li>DocuSign Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DOCU#NASDAQ">DOCU</a>), up 17%,</li>
<li>Ulta Beauty Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>), up 12.4%,</li>
<li>Li Auto Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LI#NASDAQ">LI</a>), down 3.1%,</li>
<li>Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WPM#NYSE">WPM</a>), up 1.8%, </li>
<li>Crown Castle Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CCI#NYSE">CCI</a>), up 8.7%. </li>
</ul>
Read now: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/03/44327908/2025-recession-bets-are-on-fire-yet-traders-could-still-pocket-over-50-gains-if-us-economy-just-holds">2025 Recession Bets Are On Fire, Yet Traders Could Still Pocket Over 50% Gains If US Economy Just Holds</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Large Cap

Macro Economic Events

Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

Econ #s

Economics

ETFs

$BTC

SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust

DOCU

Wall Street Bounces Back As Shutdown Risks Fade, Stocks Eye Strongest Day In 4 Months: What's Driving Markets Friday?

Barclays analyst Adrienne Yih maintains Ulta Beauty (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>) with a Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $445 to $327.

Barclays Maintains Equal-Weight on Ulta Beauty, Lowers Price Target to $327

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Consumer Discretionary sector: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>TSLA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/14/25</td>
<td>$245.00</td>
<td>$28.5K</td>
<td>4.6K</td>
<td>128.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DKNG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$28.00</td>
<td>$170.5K</td>
<td>349</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HSAI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$41.6K</td>
<td>2.8K</td>
<td>814</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAVA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$41.2K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>696</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SBUX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$110.6K</td>
<td>352</td>
<td>434</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NKE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$39.0K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
<td>410</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ABNB</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$135.00</td>
<td>$57.7K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
<td>407</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CVNA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$185.00</td>
<td>$41.0K</td>
<td>13.6K</td>
<td>253</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ULTA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
<td>$108.9K</td>
<td>325</td>
<td>245</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PENN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$45.9K</td>
<td>275</td>
<td>224</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• For TSLA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bearish, is expiring today. Parties traded 380 contract(s) at a $245.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $28.5K, with a price of $75.0 per contract. There were 4610 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 128596 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For DKNG (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DKNG#NASDAQ">DKNG</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 154 day(s) on August 15, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1550 contract(s) at a $28.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $170.5K, with a price of $110.0 per contract. There were 349 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1550 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For HSAI (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HSAI#NASDAQ">HSAI</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 34 day(s) on April 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 203 contract(s) at a $20.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 35 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $41.6K, with a price of $205.0 per contract. There were 2848 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 814 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For CAVA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAVA#NYSE">CAVA</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 98 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 89 contract(s) at a $95.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $41.2K, with a price of $463.0 per contract. There were 0 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 696 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding SBUX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBUX#NASDAQ">SBUX</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 461 day(s) on June 18, 2026. Parties traded 123 contract(s) at a $90.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 25 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $110.6K, with a price of $900.0 per contract. There were 352 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 434 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NKE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NKE#NYSE">NKE</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 98 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 100 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 16 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $39.0K, with a price of $390.0 per contract. There were 3014 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 410 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding ABNB (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABNB#NASDAQ">ABNB</a>), we observe a put option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 308 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 25 contract(s) at a $135.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $57.7K, with a price of $2310.0 per contract. There were 1540 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 407 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding CVNA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVNA#NYSE">CVNA</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 7 day(s) on March 21, 2025. Parties traded 36 contract(s) at a $185.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $41.0K, with a price of $1140.0 per contract. There were 13692 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 253 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding ULTA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 7 day(s) on March 21, 2025. Parties traded 99 contract(s) at a $360.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $108.9K, with a price of $1100.0 per contract. There were 325 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 245 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding PENN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PENN#NASDAQ">PENN</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 126 day(s) on July 18, 2025. Parties traded 121 contract(s) at a $15.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 23 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $45.9K, with a price of $380.0 per contract. There were 275 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 224 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

ABNB

CAVA

DKNG

HSAI

PENN

SBUX

TSLA

10 Consumer Discretionary Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

SoundHound AI, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOUN#NASDAQ">SOUN</a>) shares are moving higher on Friday after the company announced it will participate in the 2025 Nvidia <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44327823">GPU Technology Conference</a>.
What To Know: SoundHound plans to leverage its attendance at the conference to showcase its innovations in voice AI.
The company will demonstrate its new voice-controlled ordering system, enabling drivers to make purchases hands-free. Additionally, it will highlight its in-vehicle assistant developed in collaboration with Nvidia.
&#8220;Our collaboration with Nvidia, and our voice commerce technology are set to redefine the in-vehicle experience. We look forward to demonstrating how our AI solutions unlock new possibilities for automakers, brands, and consumers alike,&#8221; said&nbsp;Keyvan Mohajer,&nbsp;CEO and Co-Founder of SoundHound AI.
SoundHound will also showcase its dynamic drive-thru food ordering solution at Oracle&#8217;s booth
The conference is taking place from March 17 to March 21 in San Jose, California.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44333718/d-wave-quantum-stock-surges-following-strong-q4-bookings-growth-whats-going-on"> D-Wave Quantum Stock Surges Following Strong Q4 Bookings Growth: What&#8217;s Going On?</a>
SOUN Price Action: At the time of writing, SoundHound stock is trading 11.2% higher at $9.90, according to data from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro.</a>
Image: via Shutterstock

Movers

SOUN

What's Going On With SoundHound AI Stock Friday?

Cosmetics major Ulta Beauty Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>) reported <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/03/44317611/ulta-beauty-stock-climbs-on-q4-earnings-beat-fiscal-2025-will-be-a-pivotal-year" rel="noreferrer noopener">better-than-expected fourth-quarter</a> FY24 earnings. The following are the comments from various analysts on the same.
Goldman Sachs analyst Kate McShane reiterated a Neutral rating and lowered the price <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ulta/analyst-ratings">forecast from $392.00 to $384.00.</a>
ULTA&#8217;s fourth-quarter earnings beat expectations, with shares rising. Despite offering FY25 guidance below consensus, the company provided better-than-expected projections for a flat-to-positive comp and operating margins between 11.7% and 11.8%.
Management highlighted a positive fourth-quarter comp and emphasized growth in core categories. Meanwhile, ULTA acknowledged losing market share in FY24, particularly in the prestige segment, and outlined strategies to drive future growth, noted the analyst.
Stifel analyst Mark S. Astrachan reiterated a Hold rating on the shares and lowered the price forecast from $475.00 to $400.00.
Ulta&#8217;s fourth-quarter results exceeded expectations, with EBIT of $516 million, surpassing the consensus of $441 million, noted the analyst.
The company reported a 1.5% comp growth, ahead of the 0.8% consensus, and gross margin of 38.2%, outperforming the expected 37.1%.
For FY2025, Ulta guided for 0%-1% comp growth and EPS of $22.50-$22.90, slightly below consensus but better than feared. The expected 11% mid-point year-over-year EPS decline reflects significant investments in brand building, digital, and personalization initiatives.
Despite potential share loss, the company&#8217;s stable F1Q comp guidance is seen as favorable amid macroeconomic challenges, the analyst noted.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44325928/gold-smashes-through-3000-mark-as-markets-brace-for-turbulence-and-fed-signals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gold Breaches $3,000 Mark On Market Turbulence And Fed Signals</a>
Piper Sandler analyst Korinne Wolfmeyer reiterated a Neutral rating on the shares and lowered the price forecast from $425.00 to $364.00.
A stronger fourth-quarter performance and FY25 guidance surpassing bearish expectations are driving the stock higher, said the analyst.
Meanwhile, Street estimates continue to decline, with few signs of reversing the decelerating comparisons and margin challenges.
Despite this, looking beyond the next fiscal year, estimates remain stable, and management is acting swiftly to realign teams and strategies for market share recovery and consistent margin improvement as outlined during the Investor Day,
BMO Capital Markets analyst Simeon Siegel reiterated a Market Perform rating on the shares and lowered the price target from $467.00 to $404.00.
ULTA reported better-than-expected results, with strong comps, gross margin, and SGA contributing to a healthy EPS beat, said the analyst.
Looking ahead, the company provided FY25 guidance below Street expectations, labeling the year as transitional, as discussed in October&#8217;s Investor Meeting.
While ULTA operates in an appealing sector, the analyst likes to remain cautious until gaining more clarity on competition and distribution, which will influence sales and margins.
DA Davidson analyst Michael Baker reiterated a Buy rating on the shares and lowered the price target from $510.00 to $415.00.
According to the analyst, ULTA exceeded expectations for sales and profits, offering guidance that, while below consensus, was likely better than anticipated. First-quarter commentary also came in better than expected, despite vendor readthroughs.
As a result, the stock may experience a relief rally after a significant sell-off. While the Sephora issue is behind them, ULTA still faces competitive pressures from Amazon, TikTok, and Walmart. Overall, fundamentals are mixed, but the current valuation suggests a negative outlook, opined the analyst.
Canaccord Genuity analyst Susan Anderson reiterated a Buy rating on the shares and lowered the price forecast from $538.00 to $526.00.
Ulta reported fourth-quarter results with a slight sales decline of 1.9% Y/Y, beating expectations, and a positive comp growth of 1.5%, said the analyst.
New CEO Ms. Steelman introduced the &#8220;Ulta Beauty Unleashed&#8221; plan, focusing on sustainable growth and operational improvements.
Despite expected investments in FY25, management guided comps of flat to +1% due to macro volatility, while maintaining optimism about strong beauty demand and market share recovery, noted the analyst.
Telsey Advisory Group analyst Dana Telsey reiterated an Outperform rating on the shares and lowered the price target from $500.00 to $460.00.
After a tough first half of FY24, Ulta improved in the second half, delivering better-than-expected fourth-quarter results.
Despite a slightly below-consensus FY25 guide, the outlook aligns with the company&#8217;s typically cautious approach, especially under new CEO Kecia Steelman.
FY25 is expected to be a transitional year, with investments aimed at gaining market share and driving long-term growth.
Given Ulta&#8217;s strong position in the beauty category, the company remains well-positioned, though the price target has been reduced due to market uncertainty, said the analyst.
Price Action: ULTA shares traded higher by 12.6% at $353.99 at last check Friday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/03/44330044/charles-schwab-stock-rises-as-february-core-net-new-assets-surge-44-year-over-year" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Schwab Stock Rises As February Core Net New Assets Surge 44% Year-Over-Year</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock.

Reiteration

Ulta Beauty's Strong Q4 Earnings Spark Relief Rally But Analysts Stay Cautious

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Ulta Beauty Announces Long-Term Financial Targets and Strategic Priorities to Drive Profitable Growth

Ulta Beauty Partners with Rokt Ahead of Holiday Season to Expand Its Retail Media Network and Elevate the Guest Experience

Ulta Beauty to Report Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 Results on December 5, 2024

Ulta Beauty Announces Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 Results

Ulta Beauty to Participate in Upcoming Investor Conference

Ulta Beauty Announces CEO Transition

Ulta Beauty World to Debut in San Antonio this Spring

Ulta Beauty to Report Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2024 Results on March 13, 2025

Ulta Beauty Announces Fourth Quarter Fiscal 2024 Results

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