Mens' clothing retailer JoS A. Bank Clothiers (NASDAQ: JOSB) announced its fiscal-year profit this morning -- logging rather impressive earnings of $3.17 per share. A year ago, JOSB reported earnings of $2.72 per share. This year's results were also 10 cents better than what the Street expected. Yearly net sales increased to $695.9 million, up from $604 million a year ago.
Many may find it difficult to believe that a clothing retailer could have a better year this year than last, what's the deal? One reason could be that JOSB delivers quite a bit of value for the dollar. For those not familiar with the company, men can purchase a complete "work-appropriate" outfit for less than $400 (from the suit jacket to the socks).
Furthermore, the company recently announced that it will refund customers $199 for any suit purchased by April 9 if they lose their job (the coverage is good until July 1, but I would guess we could see this extended). Perhaps you may think this coverage isn't much, but offering peace of mind during uncertain times can help a company. Bottom line: JOSB offers quite the deal for the money, and it is now lending confidence to the consumer -- this could be the recipe for better performance (that is, if solid earnings aren't).
Technically, the stock is battling resistance at the $30 level, but stronger-than-expected earnings could help push the stock higher. In addition, the equity is perched on support from its 10-month moving average -- which is on the verge of a bullish cross of its 20-month counterpart. Such a move can be a bullish long-term indicator. Keep an eye on JOSB throughout today's session, if it can weather what seems to be a bear's day, JOSB could be well-positioned to enjoy a run higher.
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