Kohl’s Q4 Preview: $5.14B Revenue, $0.85 EPS and 5% Traffic Decline
Kohl’s projects fiscal fourth-quarter revenue of $5.14 billion (down from $5.40B) and EPS of $0.85 (versus $0.95 last year) as foot traffic fell 5% in Q4, outpacing peer declines. The quarter marks new CEO Michael Bender’s first report, with 33.6% of shares currently sold short.
1. Q4 Earnings Estimates
Analysts forecast Kohl’s will report Q4 revenue of $5.14 billion, down from $5.40 billion year-over-year, and EPS of $0.85 versus $0.95 last year. The company has beaten revenue estimates seven of the past ten quarters and EPS estimates eight of the past ten.
2. Foot Traffic Trends
Data indicates Kohl’s saw a 5% decline in store visits during the quarter, which, while steeper than some peers, was modestly better than JCPenney’s 5.5% and Macy’s 7.1% drops. Traffic trends will be key for same-store sales and promotional strategies.
3. Leadership Change
The Q4 report will be the first full earnings update under CEO Michael Bender, who took the helm in November 2025. Investors will monitor his commentary on strategic initiatives tied to the 2025 turnaround plan.
4. Short Interest and Volatility
With 33.6% of the float sold short, Kohl’s shares face heightened volatility around the earnings release. Positive surprises or upbeat management guidance could trigger sharp short-covering rallies.