-- CFRA, an independent research provider, has providedwith the following research alert. Analysts at CFRA have summarized their opinion as follows:
Lithia Motors (LAD) posted Q1 adjusted EPS of $7.34 vs. $7.93 (-7%), well ahead of the $6.86 consensus. The beat was driven by stronger-than-expected revenue and margins, as net sales rose 1.0% to $9.27B ($50M ahead of consensus) and gross margin contracted 10 bps to 15.3% (10 bps ahead of consensus). LAD posted weaker gross margins across its New Vehicle (-50 bps) and Used Vehicle (-40 bps) segments, partially offset by stronger Aftersales results (+150 bps). LAD bought back 942K shares or 4.0% of its total outstanding shares for $259M in Q1 (an average price of $274.62/share). LAD said that stores acquired during Q1 are expected to generate $425M in annualized revenue. LAD shares are up in pre-market trading. We were particularly impressed by its buybacks. After disappointing earnings from other auto dealerships in recent days, LAD proved that its disciplined approach to acquisitions, cash returns to shareholders, and operational efficiency are paying off amid a difficult fundamental backdrop.