H&M Shares Drop Over 5% After Missing Q4 Sales Forecasts, Citing Black Friday Timing

H&M shares fell over 5% on Thursday after the retailer missed fourth-quarter sales forecasts. The company attributed the shortfall partly to Black Friday’s later timing but noted a sales uptick in December and January. Full-year sales rose 1% in local currencies, with growth in womenswear, sportswear, and online segments. CEO Daniel Ervér remains optimistic about long-term growth despite macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges. H&M CEO Daniel Ervér outlined goals for at least 10% annual sales growth, an operating margin above 10%, and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.