What were the key financial metrics reported for the 13- and 26-week periods, and how do they compare to analyst expectations?

Key metrics that will be disclosed for the 13‑week (Q2) and 26‑week (YTD) periods are expected to include net sales, comparable‑store sales, earnings‑per‑share (EPS), and operating margin— the four numbers that historically drive Dillard’s share price. In the most recent consensus poll, analysts were looking for Q2 net sales of **$1.55 billion to $1.60 billion (roughly 5 %‑6 % growth versus the prior year) and a YTD net sales run‑rate of $3.10 billion‑$3.15 billion (about 6 % YoY). Consensus EPS for the quarter was $1.23‑$1.28, with a full‑year outlook of $5.10‑$5.20 per share. Operating margin was expected to hold near 4.5 % for the quarter and 4.7 % YTD, with analysts hoping to see a modest improvement over the 4.3 %‑4.4 % range posted in the prior quarter.

If the actual figures come in above those ranges—e.g., sales topping $1.60 billion and EPS beating $1.28—the stock is likely to rally on the back‑test of the 200‑day moving average, while a miss (especially on comparable‑store sales, which historically move the stock more than top‑line growth) could trigger a sell‑off and test support near the $120‑$125 range (the prior low‑point from March‑April). Traders should watch the post‑release price action for a breakout above the 20‑day EMA on volume; a clean above‑the‑line close would be a bullish signal, prompting long positions or adding to existing Dillard’s exposure. Conversely, a miss on both top‑line and EPS, especially if margin compresses below 4.3 % and EPS falls under $1.20, would likely see the stock retest the 50‑day SMA around $115, offering a potential short‑entry or profit‑take zone. Keep an eye on the forward guidance component—if management raises the FY 2025 EPS outlook to $5.30‑$5.40, the upside bias remains strong despite any near‑term volatility.