NEXT

Citi upgraded Next to “Buy” and raised the price target from £155 to £184, sending the stock up about 2.4%. Analysts highlight international growth: the international business delivered a five‑year CAGR of 20% and now accounts for more than 20% of product sales; Citi expects a four‑year CAGR of 17% through 2029. Next beat expectations in the second quarter (full‑price sales +9.2%, international sales +36.9%) and raised its adjusted pre‑tax profit forecast for the year by £25m to £1.24bn; analysts still consider the company’s guidance conservative. » More on de.investing.com

Next upgraded its full-year pre-tax profit forecast to £1.2bn, about £25m higher than previously expected, after full-price sales rose 9% in the 13 weeks to 1 August. The retailer cited sunny weather and released pent-up demand in the Middle East and northern Europe as drivers and said this is the third guidance upgrade this year. Shares jumped to a record high as Next continues to outperform peers despite a challenging consumer backdrop. » More on theguardian.com

Next plc is reportedly considering acquiring Harvey Nichols to integrate the luxury retailer into its Total Platform ecosystem. The move would preserve Harvey Nichols’ brand identity while adding technology, fulfilment, payments and retail credit capabilities to restore profitability. The acquisition would extend Next’s portfolio from accessible and premium fashion into high-end luxury, broadening customer lifetime spend within its platform. » More on forbes.com