Key takeaways
View moreTJX's current valuation metrics (EV/EBITDA of 19.42x vs. industry 10.19x) indicate a significant premium to peers, which appears excessive given the company's lower gross margins and near-term headwinds from tariffs. While the company's strong market position, operational efficiency, and growth prospects partially justify a premium valuation, the magnitude of the current premium suggests overvaluation, particularly considering the risks and challenges in the current retail environment.
- TJX's revenue growth is decelerating, with the most recent quarterly sales figures showing a decrease, raising concerns about future performance.
- Gross Profit Margin (30.04%) is below the industry average (42.35%), indicating challenges in managing the cost of goods sold, while Net Profit Margin (7.90%) is above the industry average (3.33%).
- Liquidity ratios, such as the Current Ratio (1.16) and Quick Ratio (0.51), are below the industry average (1.67 and 0.83, respectively), suggesting lower liquidity compared to peers.
- Enterprise Value to EBITDA (19.42) and Enterprise Value to Sales (2.72) are higher than the industry averages (10.19 and 1.51, respectively), indicating a premium valuation.
- The earnings call highlighted that tariffs are a significant headwind, particularly in Q2, which could further impact financial performance, but management is confident in navigating the environment due to the company's flexible buying model.
- TJX has generally outperformed the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY) and its peers, Burlington Stores, Inc. (BURL) and Ross Stores, Inc. (ROST), over the past three years, demonstrating a strong combination of performance, lower risk, and better risk-adjusted returns.
- Management is maintaining its full-year comp sales growth guidance of 2% to 3% and expects consolidated sales to be in the range of 58.1 billion to 58.6 billion, up 3% to 4%.
- The company is expanding its store footprint, particularly for Marmaxx in the U.S. and TK Maxx internationally, and is also pursuing joint ventures and investments in Mexico and the Middle East to drive growth.
- Free Cash Flow to Equity was negative (-103 million) for the most recent quarter, indicating that the company used more cash than it generated, primarily due to changes in working capital.
Evaluation summary
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Company Overview:
- The TJX Cos., Inc. (TJX) is a leading off-price apparel and home fashion retailer, operating over 5,100 stores worldwide. The company's business model involves selling a rapidly changing assortment of branded merchandise at 20-60% below regular retail prices.
- TJX operates through four main segments: Marmaxx (TJ Maxx, Marshalls), HomeGoods, TJX Canada, and TJX International. Key products include apparel, accessories, and home fashions. While specific revenue contributions by segment are not detailed in the provided data, the company's SEC filings highlight the importance of each segment to overall performance.
- The benchmarks used for comparative analysis include the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY). Peers include Burlington Stores, Inc. (BURL) and Ross Stores, Inc. (ROST).
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Financial Performance:
- Recent quarterly financial statements show fluctuating revenue. Sales/Revenue was 13.11 billion for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 16.35 billion for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. This represents a decrease in sales.
- Gross Income was 3.939 billion for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 4.941 billion for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. Net Income was 1.036 billion for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 1.398 billion for the quarter ending January 31, 2025.
- Gross Profit Margin was 30.04% for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 30.22% for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. Net Profit Margin was 7.90% for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 8.55% for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. These figures indicate a slight decrease in both gross and net profit margins.
- Return on Average Assets was 15.70% for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 15.82% for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. Return on Average Total Equity was 60.36% for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 61.98% for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. Return on Average Total Capital was 30.32% for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 30.44% for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. These metrics are decreasing, suggesting a potential weakening in profitability.
- Compared to the industry average, TJX's Gross Profit Margin of 30.04% is below the industry average of 42.35%, while its Net Profit Margin of 7.90% is above the industry average of 3.33%.
- The earnings call highlighted that tariffs are a significant headwind, particularly in Q2, which could further impact financial performance.
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Operational Efficiency:
- Total Current Assets were 12.595 billion for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 12.991 billion for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. Total Current Liabilities were 10.827 billion for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 11.008 billion for the quarter ending January 31, 2025.
- Working Capital was 1.768 billion for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 1.983 billion for the quarter ending January 31, 2025, indicating a decrease in short-term liquidity.
- Net Operating Cash Flow was 394 million for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 2.704 billion for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. This significant decrease is due to changes in working capital.
- Free Cash Flow to Equity was -103 million for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 2.190 billion for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. The negative free cash flow indicates that the company used more cash than it generated during the quarter.
- Total Capital Expenditure was 497 million for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 514 million for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. Depreciation, Depletion & Amortization was 296 million for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 309 million for the quarter ending January 31, 2025.
- Cash Dividends Paid were 424 million for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 422 million for the quarter ending January 31, 2025. Change in Capital Stock was -563 million for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to -740 million for the quarter ending January 31, 2025, indicating continued share repurchases.
- The Current Ratio was 1.16 for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 1.18 for the quarter ending January 31, 2025, below the industry average of 1.67. The Quick Ratio was 0.51 for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 0.60 for the quarter ending January 31, 2025, also below the industry average of 0.83.
- Total Debt to Total Equity Ratio was 153.62% for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 152.25% for the quarter ending January 31, 2025, below the industry average of 208.08%. Debt / EBITDA was 0.38 for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 0.39 for the quarter ending January 31, 2025, also below the industry average of 1.58.
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Growth Opportunities:
- TJX is expanding its store footprint, particularly for Marmaxx in the U.S. and TK Maxx internationally, as highlighted in the earnings call.
- The company is also excited about its joint venture with Grupo Axo in Mexico and its investment in Brands For Less in The Middle East, as mentioned in the earnings call.
- The SEC filings mention plans to expand the TK Maxx banner into Spain in fiscal 2027.
- Management emphasizes the company's flexible business model, opportunistic buying approach, and strong vendor relationships as key competitive advantages, which support growth.
- The earnings call indicates that the company is focused on reinvesting in the growth of its business while returning significant cash to shareholders through buybacks and dividends.
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Recent Developments and Market Sentiment:
- The earnings call on May 21, 2025, revealed that tariffs are a significant headwind, particularly in Q2, due to orders placed before the tariffs were known.
- Management is confident in navigating the current tariff and macro environment, citing the company's flexible buying model and diverse vendor base.
- HomeGoods is a standout performer, outperforming the broader home market.
- Customer transactions are driving sales growth across all divisions.
- Analysts raised concerns about inventory availability, gross margin considerations, and vendor pricing, reflecting some uncertainty about the company's ability to maintain profitability in the face of tariffs.
- The overall market sentiment appears cautiously optimistic, with management maintaining full-year guidance despite near-term challenges.
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Risks and Threats:
- The SEC filings highlight risks related to the execution of the opportunistic buying strategy and inventory management.
- Failure to identify and respond to consumer trends and preferences is a significant risk.
- Intense competition in the retail industry poses a constant threat.
- Risks related to the global supply chain and international operations, including tariff headwinds, are a concern.
- Cybersecurity threats and IT system disruptions are ongoing risks.
- Labor challenges and rising costs could impact profitability.
- Legal, regulatory, and compliance risks are always present.
- The earnings call emphasized that tariffs are a significant headwind, particularly in Q2.
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Valuation Analysis:
- Enterprise Value to EBITDA was 19.42 for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 18.99 for the quarter ending January 31, 2025, higher than the industry average of 10.19.
- Enterprise Value to Sales was 2.72 for the quarter ending April 30, 2025, compared to 2.65 for the quarter ending January 31, 2025, higher than the industry average of 1.51.
- These metrics suggest that TJX is trading at a premium compared to its peers.
- Potential catalysts include successful mitigation of tariff impacts and continued growth in the HomeGoods division.
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Price Performance:
- The stock price has fluctuated in recent months. From April 4, 2025, to June 2, 2025, the price ranged from approximately 118.74 to 135.03.
- TJX has generally outperformed the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY) over the 1-week, 3-month, 6-month, 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year periods. However, TJX underperformed XLY over the 1-month period.
- TJX has also generally outperformed Burlington Stores, Inc. (BURL) and Ross Stores, Inc. (ROST) over the past three years.
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Future Outlook:
- Management is maintaining its full-year comp sales growth guidance of 2% to 3% and expects consolidated sales to be in the range of 58.1 billion to 58.6 billion, up 3% to 4%.
- Full-year pretax profit margin is expected to be in the range of 11.3% to 11.4%, down 10 to 20 basis points versus last year.
- Full-year diluted earnings per share are projected to be in the range of 4.34 to 4.43, representing a 2% to 4% increase.
- The guidance assumes that the current level of tariffs on imports into the U.S. from China and other countries will stay in place for the remainder of the year.
- Recent news and developments, particularly the impact of tariffs, are expected to influence the company's future performance.
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Summary:
- TJX is a leading off-price retailer with a strong business model and a history of outperforming its peers and benchmarks.
- Strengths: Strong brand recognition, flexible buying model, diverse vendor base, and experienced management team.
- Weaknesses: Lower gross profit margin compared to the industry average, below-average liquidity ratios, and reliance on opportunistic buying.
- Opportunities: Market expansion, particularly internationally, growth in the HomeGoods division, and potential to gain market share as other retailers face challenges.
- Threats: Tariff headwinds, supply chain disruptions, intense competition, and cybersecurity risks.
- Overall, TJX demonstrates financial stability, but its future performance will depend on its ability to manage costs, navigate tariff pressures, and maintain its growth trajectory. Investors should closely monitor the company's gross profit margin, liquidity ratios, and progress in mitigating the impact of tariffs. The company's valuation is at a premium compared to industry averages, reflecting its strong brand and historical performance. However, the potential impact of tariffs and other risks should be carefully considered.
Price history
Fundamentals
Insights
- Revenue growth is decelerating, and profitability metrics are decreasing, indicating a potential slowdown in the company's financial performance.
- Liquidity ratios are below the industry average, suggesting lower liquidity compared to peers.
- The company is investing in fixed assets and returning capital to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases.
- Tariff headwinds and supply chain disruptions may impact future revenue growth and profitability.
- The company's flexible buying model and diverse vendor base are crucial for mitigating the impact of tariffs and capitalizing on market opportunities.
Analysis
- Revenue
- Revenue growth is decelerating, with the most recent year-over-year growth rate of 3.79% falling short of the 5-year CAGR of 9.11%.
- Sales/revenue decreased in the most recent quarter, raising concerns about future performance.
- The company's Enterprise Value to Sales ratio is higher than the industry average, suggesting a premium valuation.
- Profitability
- Profitability metrics, such as Return on Average Assets, Return on Average Total Equity, and Net Profit Margin, are decreasing, indicating a potential weakening in profitability.
- Gross Profit Margin is below the industry average, suggesting challenges in managing the cost of goods sold.
- Net Profit Margin is above the industry average, indicating strong profitability.
- Liquidity
- Liquidity ratios, such as the Current Ratio and Quick Ratio, are below the industry average, indicating lower liquidity compared to peers.
- The Current Ratio is slightly decreasing, suggesting a potential weakening in short-term liquidity.
- Solvency
- Solvency ratios, such as the Total Debt to Total Equity Ratio and Debt/EBITDA, are below the industry average, indicating lower leverage compared to peers.
- The Total Debt to Total Equity Ratio is decreasing, suggesting a reduction in financial leverage.
- Operational Efficiency
- The company is investing in fixed assets, as evidenced by the increasing net property, plant, and equipment.
- The company's ability to control operating expenses has been strong, but the recent decrease in revenue has impacted profitability.
- Cash Flow Analysis - Net operating cash flow decreased significantly in the most recent quarter due to changes in working capital. - Capital expenditures remain high, driven by investments in store growth and supply chain improvements. - The company is returning capital to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases.
- Risk Factors
- Tariff headwinds and supply chain disruptions may impact future revenue growth and profitability.
- Fluctuations in unusual expense make it difficult to assess the company's sustainable earnings.
- Future Outlook
- Future revenue growth is expected to be driven by new product launches, market expansion, and pricing strategies.
- The company is expected to maintain its focus on cost control and operational efficiencies.
- The company's ability to mitigate tariff headwinds and capitalize on market opportunities will be crucial for future earnings growth.
- Profitability
Financial statements
Public filings
- TJX Companies is the leading off-price retailer, leveraging a flexible business model and opportunistic buying strategies to offer branded merchandise at significant discounts
- The company has demonstrated resilient financial performance, with consistent sales and earnings growth, strong profitability, and a healthy balance sheet
- However, TJX faces risks common to the retail industry, including intense competition, changing consumer preferences, supply chain disruptions, and cybersecurity threats
- The company is actively investing in its business, expanding its store footprint, and returning capital to shareholders, positioning it for continued growth
- Key risks include execution of its buying and inventory strategies, labor challenges, legal/regulatory compliance, and the potential impact of macroeconomic conditions and trade policies
Core Business and Operations:
- TJX Companies, Inc. is the leading off-price apparel and home fashions retailer in the U.S. and worldwide
- Operates over 5,100 stores across four main segments: Marmaxx (TJ Maxx, Marshalls), HomeGoods, TJX Canada, and TJX International
- Sells a rapidly changing assortment of branded merchandise at 20-60% below regular retail prices
- Key products include apparel, accessories, home fashions, and other merchandise
- Main competitors include department stores, specialty retailers, and major online retailers
Industry and Market Trends:
- Retail industry is highly competitive, with pressure from e-commerce and shifting consumer preferences
- Exposed to global economic conditions, trade policies/tariffs, and currency exchange rate fluctuations
- Increasing focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues from stakeholders
Recent Events:
- Entered into joint venture for 49% stake in off-price retailer in Mexico (Multibrand Outlet Stores)
- Acquired 35% minority stake in off-price retailer in the Middle East (Brands for Less)
- Announced plans to expand TK Maxx banner into Spain in fiscal 2027
Risk Factors:
- Execution of opportunistic buying strategy and inventory management
- Failure to identify and respond to consumer trends and preferences
- Intense competition in the retail industry
- Risks related to global supply chain and international operations
- Cybersecurity threats and IT system disruptions
- Labor challenges and rising costs
- Legal, regulatory, and compliance risks
Legal Matters:
- Subject to various legal proceedings, lawsuits, and claims in the ordinary course of business
- No material legal matters disclosed in the recent filings
Management's Discussion and Analysis:
- Consolidated net sales grew 4-6% year-over-year, driven by comp sales increases of 3-4%
- Profitability remained strong, with pre-tax profit margins of 11-12%
- Maintained healthy liquidity, with $5.3 billion in cash as of February 2025
- Returned significant capital to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends
- Continued investments in store growth, supply chain, and technology to support long-term expansion
Earnings calls
Earnings Report 2026Q1 (2025-05-21)
Key takeaways
- Tariffs are a significant headwind, particularly in Q2: The company expects the most significant impact from tariffs in Q2 due to orders placed before the tariffs were known. Mitigation efforts are underway, but the short-term impact is unavoidable.
- Flexibility is key to navigating the current environment: TJX's flexible buying model, diverse vendor base, and ability to shift between categories are crucial for mitigating the impact of tariffs and capitalizing on market opportunities.
- HomeGoods is a standout performer: The HomeGoods division is outperforming the broader home market, driven by its differentiated mix and repeat customer visits. Continued margin improvement is expected.
- Customer transactions are driving sales growth: The increase in customer transactions across all divisions indicates the strength of TJX's value proposition and its ability to attract shoppers in the current environment.
- Management is confident in long-term growth: Despite the near-term challenges, management remains confident in the company's long-term growth prospects, citing its competitive advantages and experienced leadership team.
Focus of management’s prepared remarks
- Strong Q1 Performance: The company reported strong Q1 results, with comp sales growth at the high end of their plan and exceeding expectations for pretax profit margin and earnings per share.
- Divisional Growth: Every division, both in the U.S. and internationally, drove increases in comp sales and customer transactions.
- Value Proposition: Management emphasized the company's commitment to offering great value to shoppers every day at each of its retail banners.
- Merchandise Availability: The availability of merchandise is outstanding, and the company is in a great position to take advantage of the plentiful opportunities that the marketplace is offering.
- Tariff and Macro Environment: The company is confident in its ability to navigate the current tariff and macro environment in the short-term.
- Long-Term Growth: The company's vision for long-term growth, profitability, and market share opportunities remains the same.
- Customer Transactions: Customer transactions increased across all divisions, seen as an excellent indicator of the strength of the company's value proposition.
- Inventory Levels: The company feels great about its inventory levels and has been taking advantage of the excellent deals it has been seeing in the marketplace.
- Capital Allocation: The company continues to reinvest in the growth of its business while returning significant cash to shareholders through buyback and dividend programs.
- Strategic Vision: Management reiterated the key characteristics of the business that give them confidence in their ability to execute on growth initiatives, including value proposition, global buying infrastructure, wide customer demographic, flexible business model, and talented associates.
- Full Year Guidance: The company is maintaining its full year comp sales growth, pretax profit margin and diluted earnings per share outlook.
- Second Quarter Guidance: The company provided guidance for the second quarter, including expectations for comp sales growth, consolidated sales, pretax profit margin, gross margin, SG&A, net interest income, tax rate, weighted average share count, and diluted earnings per share.
Focus of the analyst Q&A
- Inventory Availability:
- Concerns about delayed ship sailings and uncertainty around tariff rates for holiday.
- Questions about how the company's conversations with vendors have changed and what kind of pricing may be necessary to offset tariffs.
- Progression of Comp Trends:
- Questions about the progression of comp trends at Marmaxx in March and April relative to the start of the quarter.
- Inquiries about the strong start to the second quarter.
- Gross Margin Considerations:
- Questions about gross margin considerations for the balance of the year relative to the contraction in the first quarter.
- Vendor Pricing and Negotiation:
- Questions about whether vendors are trying to pass price increases through to the company and how the company is negotiating against them.
- Inquiries about the company's flexibility to maintain margins or drive comps in response to price changes.
- Direct Sourcing:
- Questions about the percentage of product that is direct-sourced and how that might change in response to the current environment.
- Income Demographics:
- Inquiries about any signs that the company is gaining share more so with any one specific income cohort.
- HomeGoods Margin Trajectory:
- Questions about the margin trajectory of the HomeGoods business for the rest of the year.
- Inquiries about how the company is managing home and toy categories with respect to tariffs.
- Cost Input Agnosticism:
- Questions about whether the company can buy backwards for all its product and be somewhat cost input-agnostic.
- Gross Margin Guidance:
- Questions about the gross margin guidance and whether any pricing is already contemplated in the second half.
- Customer Acquisition:
- Inquiries about signs of trade-down in the basket and whether there are any signs of customer inflows from other retailers.
- Gross Margin Moving Parts:
- Questions about the other moving parts in the gross margin, such as product margin or supply chain investments.
- Freight:
- Questions about freight and what the company has been seeing in 1Q and the forecast for 2Q.
- Expense Initiatives:
- Questions about the expense initiatives and where the opportunities are to save money.
Summary
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Financial Performance
TJX Companies reported strong Q1 Fiscal 2026 results, with comp sales growth of 3%, at the high end of their plan. Every division, both in the U.S. and internationally, drove increases in comp sales and customer transactions. Pretax profit margin was 10.3%, down 80 basis points year-over-year, but above expectations. Diluted earnings per share of $0.92 also exceeded expectations. The company maintained its full-year guidance for comp sales growth, pretax profit margin, and diluted earnings per share.
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Revenue Drivers
The primary driver of comp sales growth was an increase in customer transactions across all divisions. Both apparel and home categories experienced comp sales increases, with home outperforming apparel. Marmaxx's sales accelerated in March and April as the weather improved. The company highlighted strong sales growth at its U.S. e-commerce sites and Sierra stores. TJX International saw continued strength in Europe and outstanding sales in Australia.
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Profit Margins and Cost Management
The pretax profit margin decreased by 80 basis points to 10.3%. Gross margin was down 50 basis points, primarily due to unfavorable inventory hedges. SG&A increased 20 basis points due to the lapping of a benefit from a reserve release last year and incremental store wage and payroll costs. Net interest income negatively impacted pretax profit margin by 20 basis points versus last year, due to a lower cash balance and lower interest rates. The company is focused on cost efficiencies and productivity initiatives to offset tariff pressures.
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Guidance and Outlook
TJX maintained its full-year comp sales growth guidance of 2% to 3% and expects consolidated sales to be in the range of $58.1 billion to $58.6 billion, up 3% to 4%. Full-year pretax profit margin is expected to be in the range of 11.3% to 11.4%, down 10 to 20 basis points versus last year. Full-year diluted earnings per share are projected to be in the range of $4.34 to $4.43, representing a 2% to 4% increase. For Q2, the company expects comp sales growth of 2% to 3% and diluted earnings per share in the range of $0.97 to $1.00. The guidance assumes that the current level of tariffs on imports into the U.S. from China and other countries will stay in place for the remainder of the year.
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Strategic Initiatives
TJX is focused on reinvesting in the growth of its business while returning significant cash to shareholders through buybacks and dividends. The company is expanding its store footprint, particularly for Marmaxx in the U.S. and TK Maxx internationally. TJX is also excited about its joint venture with Grupo Axo in Mexico and its investment in Brands For Less in The Middle East. The company emphasizes its flexible business model, opportunistic buying approach, and strong vendor relationships as key competitive advantages.
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Management Commentary
Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate the current tariff and macro environment. They highlighted the company's value proposition, global buying infrastructure, broad customer demographic, flexible business model, and talented associates as key drivers of long-term success. The CEO emphasized the company's long track record of successfully navigating challenging economic and retail markets. Management believes the company has one of the best models in retail and sees a long runway for growth.
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Industry and Market Conditions
Management acknowledged the challenging economic and retail environment, including tariff pressures and potential delays in shipments. They believe that the company's value proposition will attract new shoppers seeking value in the current environment. The company is closely monitoring the impact of tariffs on its direct and indirect imports and is implementing mitigation strategies. Management sees opportunities to gain market share as other retailers face challenges.
Comparative analysis
Benchmarks (as of 2025-06-02)
- Performance Comparison:
- The TJX Cos., Inc. (TJX) has generally outperformed the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY) over the 1-week, 3-month, 6-month, 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year periods. However, TJX underperformed XLY over the 1-month period. For example, over the last three years, TJX yielded 116.43% compared to XLY's 43.87%, a significant outperformance.
- Risk and Return Analysis:
- The annualized returns for TJX have been higher than XLY over the 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year periods. For instance, the 3-year annualized return for TJX is 29.35% compared to 12.89% for XLY.
- The annualized volatility for TJX has generally been lower than XLY. For example, in Q2 2022, TJX's volatility ranged from 40.8% to 49.55%, while XLY's ranged from 44.96% to 48.63%.
- The maximum drawdown for TJX was -26.55% on 2022-06-30, while the maximum drawdown for XLY was -48.38% on 2025-04-21. This indicates that TJX experienced less severe declines from its peak values compared to XLY, suggesting a lower risk profile.
- Risk-Adjusted Performance:
- The Sharpe Ratio for TJX has generally been higher than XLY, indicating that TJX offers better risk-adjusted returns. For example, as of Q2 2025, the Sharpe ratio for TJX is 1.32, while the Sharpe ratio for XLY is 0.93.
- The Beta value for TJX has consistently been below 1, indicating that TJX is less sensitive to market movements compared to XLY, which has a Beta value consistently above 1. As of Q2 2025, the beta of TJX is 0.52, while the beta of XLY is 1.14.
- Overall Assessment:
- Based on the analysis, The TJX Cos., Inc. (TJX) has demonstrated superior performance, lower volatility, and better risk-adjusted returns compared to the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY). TJX's lower beta suggests it is less sensitive to market movements, making it a potentially more stable investment. The higher Sharpe ratio indicates that TJX provides better returns for the level of risk taken.
Peers Price History(as of 2025-06-02)
- Performance Comparison:
- The TJX Cos., Inc. (TJX) has generally outperformed Burlington Stores, Inc. (BURL) and Ross Stores, Inc. (ROST) over the past three years. As of the latest data, TJX has significantly higher returns across 1-year (23.37%), 2-year (67.4%), and 3-year (116.43%) periods. While TJX has shown strong performance, there have been periods where ROST has come close to matching or slightly exceeding TJX's returns, particularly in shorter time frames like 3 months. BURL has consistently underperformed both TJX and ROST across all time periods.
- Risk and Return Analysis:
- The annualized returns for TJX are higher than both BURL and ROST across 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year periods. For example, the 3-year annualized return for TJX is 29.35%, compared to 10.87% for BURL and 21.25% for ROST.
- TJX generally exhibits lower annualized volatility compared to BURL and ROST. For instance, in Q2 2025, TJX's volatility ranged from 20.25% to 29.79%, while BURL's ranged from 39.8% to 62.44%, and ROST's ranged from 22.43% to 37.97%. This indicates that TJX's returns are more stable.
- The maximum drawdown for TJX was -26.55% on 2022-06-30, which is significantly lower than BURL's -68.87% on 2022-09-29 and ROST's -44.13% on 2022-06-30. This suggests that TJX is less risky in terms of potential losses from peak values.
- Risk-Adjusted Performance:
- The Sharpe Ratio for TJX is generally higher than those of BURL and ROST, indicating better risk-adjusted returns. For example, in Q4 2024, TJX's Sharpe Ratio ranged from 1.42 to 2.25, while BURL's ranged from 1.13 to 1.89, and ROST's ranged from 0.47 to 0.98.
- The Beta value for TJX is consistently below 1, indicating that it is less sensitive to market movements compared to BURL and ROST. This further supports the conclusion that TJX is a less risky investment.
- Overall Assessment:
- The TJX Cos., Inc. (TJX) demonstrates a strong combination of performance, lower risk, and better risk-adjusted returns compared to Burlington Stores, Inc. (BURL) and Ross Stores, Inc. (ROST). TJX has consistently outperformed its peers over the past three years, with higher annualized returns and lower volatility. The lower maximum drawdown and beta values indicate a more conservative risk profile. The higher Sharpe Ratio suggests that TJX offers better compensation for the level of risk taken.
- A significant trend is the consistently lower volatility and beta of TJX compared to BURL, suggesting a more stable investment. However, investors should monitor the recent decreasing trend in Sharpe Ratios across all three companies, which may indicate changing market conditions or increased competition.
Peers Fundamentals(as of 2025-04-30)
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Market Position and Size:
- TJX is the largest company in its peer group by a significant margin, with a market capitalization of $143,279.08 million, dwarfing Burlington Stores ($14,690.37 million) and Ross Stores ($46,832.54 million).
- This substantial market capitalization is supported by its superior revenue ($56,992 million), gross income ($17,417 million), EBITDA ($7,459 million), and net income ($4,830 million) compared to its peers.
- TJX's dominant size and market position provide it with economies of scale, brand recognition, and negotiating power with suppliers.
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Profitability and Efficiency:
- TJX exhibits mixed profitability metrics. Its gross profit margin (30.56%) is lower than Burlington Stores (40.09%) and the industry average (42.35%), but higher than Ross Stores (27.78%).
- However, TJX's EBITDA margin (13.09%) and net profit margin (8.47%) are higher than Burlington Stores (10.2% and 4.88%, respectively) and the industry average (10.16% and 3.33%, respectively), but lower than Ross Stores (14.37% and 9.79%, respectively).
- TJX demonstrates strong efficiency in generating returns, with higher return on average assets (15.7%), return on average total equity (60.36%), return on average total capital (30.32%), and return on average invested capital (25.13%) compared to its peers and industry averages.
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Financial Health and Stability:
- TJX's current ratio (1.16) and quick ratio (0.51) are lower than Ross Stores (1.55 and 0.95, respectively) and the industry average (1.67 and 0.83, respectively), indicating potentially lower liquidity.
- TJX's total debt to total equity ratio (153.62%) is lower than Burlington Stores (394.13%) and the industry average (208.08%), but higher than Ross Stores (89.95%).
- TJX's debt/EBITDA ratio (0.38) is lower than Burlington Stores (1.5), Ross Stores (0.5) and the industry average (1.58), suggesting a strong ability to cover its debt obligations with earnings.
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Valuation and Market Perception:
- TJX's enterprise value to sales (2.72) and enterprise value to EBITDA (19.42) are higher than Burlington Stores (1.86 and 14.9, respectively), Ross Stores (2.22 and 14.29, respectively) and the industry average (1.51 and 10.19, respectively).
- TJX's price-to-earnings ratio (30.28), price-to-book ratio (16.85), and price-to-sales ratio (2.55) are higher than Burlington Stores (28.58, 10.86, and 1.38, respectively), Ross Stores (22.51, 8.5, and 2.19, respectively) and the industry average (19.23, 3.51, and 1.26, respectively).
- These higher valuation metrics suggest that the market has a more optimistic view of TJX's future prospects and/or is willing to pay a premium for its shares.
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Cash Flow and Capital Management:
- TJX demonstrates strong cash flow generation capabilities, with significantly higher net operating cash flow ($5,773 million) and free cash flow ($3,777 million) compared to its peers.
- This indicates a robust ability to fund its operations, investments, and potential shareholder returns.
- TJX's cash conversion ratio (2.63) is higher than Burlington Stores (-3.49) and Ross Stores (1.17), as well as the industry average (0.22).
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Growth and Future Prospects:
- TJX shows consistently lower growth compared to the peer group average in most metrics, including sales/revenue, EBITDA, net income, and basic earnings per share.
- TJX's 3-year CAGR is lower than its 5-year CAGR for sales/revenue, EBITDA, net income, basic earnings per share, and EBIT margin, indicating a deceleration in growth over the most recent three years compared to the previous five years.
- While TJX remains a dominant player in terms of size and market capitalization, its growth rates are generally lower than the peer group average, which could impact its future market share and competitive position.
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Potential for Investment:
- TJX presents a mixed investment case. Its dominant market position, strong cash flow, and efficient capital management are attractive features.
- However, its slower growth rates and lower gross profit margin compared to some peers are potential concerns.
- The higher valuation metrics suggest that the market already recognizes TJX's strengths, which may limit potential upside.
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Key Risks and Considerations:
- TJX's lower gross profit margin compared to some peers could indicate potential inefficiencies in its cost of goods sold or pricing strategies.
- Its slower growth rates compared to the peer group average could impact its future market share and competitive position.
- Its lower liquidity ratios compared to some peers could pose challenges in meeting short-term obligations.
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Overall Assessment:
- TJX is a financially sound company with a dominant market position, strong cash flow generation, and efficient capital management.
- However, its slower growth rates, lower gross profit margin, and lower liquidity ratios compared to some peers are areas that warrant attention.
- Investors should carefully weigh these factors and consider their investment goals and risk tolerance before making a decision.