Gildan Activewear (GIL) is trading sharply higher after the market re-priced the post-HanesBrands integration story: the company lifted its targeted annual run-rate cost synergies to about $250 million by the end of 2028 (from about $200 million previously expected) and outlined actions to monetize non-core assets. The company has also kicked off a formal sale process for the HanesBrands Australia business, with stated intent to use proceeds to pay down debt—supporting a clearer path back toward its leverage framework.

In its latest full-year update, Gildan said integration is progressing ahead of plan and raised its synergy target, with a heavier portion expected earlier in the timeline. Management also framed the Australia divestiture as a way to largely offset earnings dilution from the sale while accelerating deleveraging. Alongside the integration narrative, Gildan also announced a 10% dividend increase for 2026, reinforcing a capital-returns angle that can matter for generalist and income-oriented holders.

Attention is now turning to governance and capital-allocation signals heading into the April 30, 2026 hybrid annual and special meeting, where shareholders are scheduled to vote on directors, auditor appointment, say-on-pay, and renewal of the shareholder rights plan adopted by the board on Feb. 25, 2026. Traders are also watching for concrete milestones on the Australia divestiture process and additional integration disclosures as Gildan shifts segment reporting to a Retail vs. Wholesale basis starting in 2026.