Estée Lauder earnings rise to $233M in September quarter
A second-quarter fiscal 2027 accounting effect includes an expected approximately $94 million remeasurement gain and a $37 million inducement expense.
Sentiment and the balance of points
Rhea-AI Sentiment reads the wording of the document, how positive or negative its language is on a 1 to 5 scale. The balance of points shown with the takes weighs what the document actually discloses, so the two can disagree, for example when a trial that missed its main goal is described in upbeat language.
Form Type
10-Q
Estée Lauder Companies Inc. reported net sales of $3.715 billion for the three months ended September 30, 2026, versus $3.481 billion a year earlier. Net earnings were $233 million versus $47 million; diluted earnings per share were $0.64 versus $0.13. Operating income was $408 million, up from $169 million.
Operating activities used $166 million of cash, compared with $340 million used in the prior-year quarter. The company recorded $40 million in restructuring and other charges. It estimates a final net reduction of approximately 10,000 positions globally under its approved restructuring program; cumulative program charges were $1.475 billion through September 30, 2026, versus estimated total charges of approximately $1.7 billion before taxes.
On October 5, 2026, the company completed its purchase of the remaining 51% of Forest Essentials for $160 million, funded from cash on hand. It expects an approximately $94 million gain in fiscal 2027’s second quarter from remeasuring its prior 49% interest; a separate $37 million inducement payment will be recognized as operating expense in that quarter. On October 30, 2026, it declared a $0.35-per-share cash dividend payable December 15, 2026.
3 points · 0 major0 major · 0 points
How this balance works
Rhea-AI gives every point it takes from this document a weight. Minor counts 1, Moderate 3 and Major 9, so one Major point outweighs several Minor ones. The bar adds up the weights on each side, and when neither side holds more than 65% of the total the balance reads Mixed.
It reads the document as published, with the same rules for every company, and it does not look at what the market expected or at how the stock traded, so a point can be objectively good on a day the stock falls.
Rhea-AI Sentiment measures something else, the tone of the wording.
Positive
- Moderate pointNet sales rose to $3.715 billion from $3.481 billion.
- Moderate pointNet earnings rose to $233 million from $47 million.
- Moderate pointOperating income rose to $408 million from $169 million.
Negative
- None.
Filing Explained
The 10-Q reports 116 cosmetic talcum-powder cases pending in U.S. state courts at
Key Figures
Net sales: $3.715 billion
Net earnings: $233 million
Operating income: $408 million
+5 more
8 metrics
Net sales
$3.715 billion
Three months ended September 30, 2026; $3.481 billion in 2025
Net earnings
$233 million
Three months ended September 30, 2026; $47 million in 2025
Operating income
$408 million
Three months ended September 30, 2026; $169 million in 2025
Diluted earnings per share
$0.64 per share
Three months ended September 30, 2026; $0.13 per share in 2025
Cash flows used for operating activities
$166 million used
Three months ended September 30, 2026; $340 million used in 2025
Purchase price
$160 million
Remaining 51% equity interest in Forest Essentials; completed October 5, 2026
Expected remeasurement gain
Approximately $94 million
Fiscal 2027 second quarter; remeasurement of the previously held 49% equity interest in Forest Essentials
Cash dividend declared per share
$0.35 per share
Declared October 30, 2026; payable December 15, 2026
Key Terms
remaining performance obligations, equity method, business combination, cash flow hedges
4 terms
remaining performance obligations financial
"remaining performance obligations that are unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied)"
Remaining performance obligations are the work a company still needs to complete for its customers, like finishing a service or delivering a product. It’s important because it shows how much future income the company has coming in from current agreements, giving a clearer picture of its ongoing business.
equity method financial
"accounted for under the equity method"
An equity method investment is an accounting approach used when a company owns enough of another business to influence its decisions but not control it (commonly around 20–50% ownership). Instead of counting only dividends, the investor records its share of the other company’s profits and losses on its own income statement and adjusts the investment’s value on the balance sheet—like tracking a friend’s joint project by noting your share of their gains or setbacks. For investors, this matters because it can significantly affect reported earnings, asset values, and the apparent strength of a company’s financial results.
business combination financial
"transaction will be accounted for as a business combination"
A business combination happens when two or more companies join together to operate as one, like two friends merging their teams into a single group. This is important because it can change how companies grow, compete, and make money, often making them bigger and more powerful in the market.
cash flow hedges financial
"designated as cash flow hedges"
A cash flow hedge is an accounting label companies use when they enter financial contracts—like currency or interest-rate agreements—to protect expected future cash payments or receipts from unpredictable moves. For investors, it signals that the company is trying to smooth out future cash variability (think of locking in a price to avoid surprises), which can reduce reported profit swings but also means the company has exposure to derivative instruments and their associated risks.
FAQ
AI-generated questions and answers. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.
How much revenue did EL report in the September 2026 quarter?
EL reported net sales of $3.715 billion for the three months ended September 30, 2026, compared with $3.481 billion in the same 2025 period.
How much did EL earn in the September 2026 quarter?
EL reported net earnings of $233 million and diluted earnings per share of $0.64 for the three months ended September 30, 2026, compared with $47 million and $0.13, respectively, in 2025.
How will EL account for its Forest Essentials acquisition?
EL completed its purchase of the remaining 51% equity interest for $160 million. The transaction will be accounted for as a business combination; the prior 49% interest was accounted for under the equity method. EL expects an approximately $94 million remeasurement gain in fiscal 2027’s second quarter, and the separate $37 million inducement payment will be recognized as operating expense then.
What restructuring cash expenditures does EL expect?
Accrued restructuring charges are expected to result in cash expenditures funded from cash provided by operations of approximately $417 million for the remainder of fiscal 2027, $78 million for fiscal 2028 and $16 million for fiscal 2029.
What were EL’s Mainland China net sales?
EL’s Mainland China net sales were $614 million for the three months ended September 30, 2026, compared with $532 million in the same 2025 period. Net sales from the company’s travel retail business are included in Asia/Pacific.
AI-generated analysis. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.
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Table of Contents
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
______________________________________________________________________
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
| QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 | |||||
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2026
or
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 | |||||
For the transition period from to
Commission file number 1-14064
The Estée Lauder Companies Inc .
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) | ||||||||||||||||
(Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) | ||||||||||||||||
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class | Trading Symbol(s) | Name of each exchange on which registered | ||||||
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
☒ | Accelerated filer | ☐ | |||||||||
Non-accelerated filer | ☐ | Smaller reporting company | |||||||||
Emerging growth company | |||||||||||
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☒
At October 26, 2026, 247,823,116 shares of the registrant’s Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value, and 114,507,344 shares of the registrant’s Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value, were outstanding.
Table of Contents
THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
INDEX
Page | |||||
Part I. Financial Information | |||||
Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited) | |||||
Consolidated Statements of Earnings — Three Months Ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 | 2 | ||||
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income — Three Months Ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 | 3 | ||||
Consolidated Balance Sheets — September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026 | 4 | ||||
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows — Three Months Ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 | 5 | ||||
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements | 6 | ||||
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations | 34 | ||||
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk | 53 | ||||
Item 4. Controls and Procedures | 54 | ||||
Part II. Other Information | |||||
Item 1. Legal Proceedings | 54 | ||||
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds | 54 | ||||
Item 5. Other Information | 55 | ||||
Item 6. Exhibits | 55 | ||||
Signatures | 56 | ||||
Table of Contents
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements.
THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(Unaudited)
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions, except per share data) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net sales | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cost of sales | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gross profit | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Operating expenses | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Restructuring and other charges | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total operating expenses | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest income and investment income, net | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other components of net periodic benefit cost | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Earnings before income taxes | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Provision for income taxes | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net earnings | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net earnings per common share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
2
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited)
| Three Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net earnings | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss): | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net cash flow hedge | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cross-currency swap contract - fair value hedge | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Retirement plan and other retiree benefit adjustments | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Translation adjustments | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income tax effect on components of other comprehensive income (loss) | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Comprehensive income | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
3
Table of Contents
THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
| (In millions, except share and per share data) | September 30, 2026 | June 30, 2026 | ||||||||||||
| ASSETS | ||||||||||||||
| Current assets | ||||||||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Accounts receivable, net | ||||||||||||||
| Inventory and promotional merchandise | ||||||||||||||
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | ||||||||||||||
| Total current assets | ||||||||||||||
| Property, plant and equipment, net | ||||||||||||||
| Other assets | ||||||||||||||
| Operating lease right-of-use assets | ||||||||||||||
| Goodwill | ||||||||||||||
| Other intangible assets, net | ||||||||||||||
| Other assets | ||||||||||||||
| Total other assets | ||||||||||||||
| Total assets | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| LIABILITIES AND EQUITY | ||||||||||||||
| Current liabilities | ||||||||||||||
| Current debt | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Accounts payable | ||||||||||||||
| Operating lease liabilities | ||||||||||||||
| Other accrued liabilities | ||||||||||||||
| Total current liabilities | ||||||||||||||
| Noncurrent liabilities | ||||||||||||||
| Long-term debt | ||||||||||||||
| Long-term operating lease liabilities | ||||||||||||||
| Other noncurrent liabilities | ||||||||||||||
| Total noncurrent liabilities | ||||||||||||||
| Commitments and contingencies | ||||||||||||||
| Equity | ||||||||||||||
Common stock, $ | ||||||||||||||
| Paid-in capital | ||||||||||||||
| Retained earnings | ||||||||||||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
Less: Treasury stock, at cost; | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Total equity | ||||||||||||||
Total liabilities and equity | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
4
Table of Contents
THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||
| Cash flows from operating activities | ||||||||||||||
| Net earnings | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash flows from operating activities: | ||||||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | ||||||||||||||
| Deferred income taxes | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Non-cash stock-based compensation | ||||||||||||||
| Non-cash restructuring and other charges | ||||||||||||||
| Pension and post-retirement benefit expense | ||||||||||||||
| Pension and post-retirement benefit contributions | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
Other adjustments and non-cash items | ( | |||||||||||||
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | ||||||||||||||
| Increase in accounts receivable, net | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| (Increase) decrease in inventory and promotional merchandise | ( | |||||||||||||
Increase in other assets, net | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Decrease in accounts payable | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Increase (decrease) in other accrued and noncurrent liabilities | ( | |||||||||||||
| (Decrease) increase in operating lease assets and liabilities, net | ( | |||||||||||||
Net cash flows used for operating activities | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Cash flows from investing activities | ||||||||||||||
| Capital expenditures | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Proceeds from the disposition of investments | ||||||||||||||
| Settlement of net investment hedges | ( | |||||||||||||
| Net cash flows used for investing activities | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Cash flows from financing activities | ||||||||||||||
Repayments of long-term debt | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Payment of deferred consideration | ( | |||||||||||||
Settlement of cross-currency swaps | ||||||||||||||
| Net proceeds from stock-based compensation transactions | ||||||||||||||
| Dividends paid to stockholders | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Payments to acquire treasury stock | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
Net cash flows used for financing activities | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on Cash and cash equivalents | ( | |||||||||||||
| Net decrease in Cash and cash equivalents | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | ||||||||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
5
Table of Contents
THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”). All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
The unaudited interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. GAAP in annual financial statements. The unaudited interim consolidated financial statements reflect all normal and recurring adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented. The results of operations of any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations to be expected for the full fiscal year. The interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying footnotes included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026.
Management Estimates
The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses in those financial statements. Descriptions of the Company’s significant accounting policies are discussed in the notes to consolidated financial statements in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026. Management evaluates the related estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, as relevant, and makes adjustments when facts and circumstances dictate. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from those estimates and assumptions. Significant changes, if any, in those estimates and assumptions will be reflected in the consolidated financial statements in future periods.
Currency Translation and Transactions
All assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries and affiliates are translated at period-end rates of exchange, while revenue and expenses are translated at monthly average rates of exchange for the period. Unrealized translation gains (losses), net of tax, reported as translation adjustments through other comprehensive income (loss) (“OCI”) were $14 million and $(32 ) million, net of tax, during the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025, respectively. For the Company’s subsidiaries operating in highly inflationary economies, the U.S. dollar is the functional currency, and these subsidiaries are not material to the Company's consolidated financial statements or liquidity as of and for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025. Remeasurement adjustments in financial statements in a highly inflationary economy and other transactional gains and losses are reflected in earnings.
The Company enters into foreign currency forward contracts to hedge foreign currency transactions for periods consistent with its identified exposures. The Company also uses cross-currency swap contracts to hedge the impact of foreign currency changes on certain intercompany foreign currency denominated debt. Additionally, the Company enters into foreign currency forward contracts and cross-currency swap contracts to hedge a portion of its net investment in certain foreign operations, which are designated as net investment hedges. See Note 4 – Derivative Financial Instruments for further discussion. The Company categorizes these instruments as entered into for purposes other than trading.
Net exchange losses on foreign currency transactions of $7 million and $6 million during the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025, respectively, are included within Net sales and Selling, general and administrative expenses within the accompanying consolidated statements of earnings. The impact recorded within Net sales relates solely to foreign currency forward contract derivatives. See Note 4 - Derivative Financial Instruments for further discussion.
6
Table of Contents
THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Concentration of Credit Risk
The Company is a worldwide manufacturer, marketer and seller of skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care products. The Company’s sales subject to credit risk are made primarily to department stores, duty-free retailers, specialty-multi retailers, online pure players, perfumeries and pharmacies, and salons and spas. The Company grants credit to qualified customers. While the Company does not believe it is exposed significantly to any undue concentration of credit risk at this time, it continues to monitor its customers' abilities, individually and collectively, to make timely payments.
Inventory and Promotional Merchandise
Inventory and promotional merchandise consists of the following:
| (In millions) | September 30, 2026 | June 30, 2026 | ||||||||||||
Raw materials | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Work in process | ||||||||||||||
Finished goods | ||||||||||||||
Promotional merchandise | ||||||||||||||
Total inventory and promotional merchandise | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment consists of the following:
($ in millions) | September 30, 2026 | June 30, 2026 | ||||||||||||
Assets (Useful Life) | ||||||||||||||
Land and improvements(1) | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Buildings and improvements ( | ||||||||||||||
Machinery and equipment ( | ||||||||||||||
Computer hardware and software ( | ||||||||||||||
Furniture and fixtures ( | ||||||||||||||
| Leasehold improvements | ||||||||||||||
| Construction in progress | ||||||||||||||
Total property, plant and equipment, gross | ||||||||||||||
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
Total property, plant and equipment, net | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
(1)Land improvements are depreciated over a 10
Depreciation and amortization of property, plant and equipment was $170
Income Taxes
The effective rate for income taxes was 32.5 % and 56.9 % for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025, respectively, a 2,440 basis point decrease period over period. The extent of the period-over-period change was broadly impacted by the lower earnings before taxes for the three months ended September 30, 2025. The decrease in the effective tax rate was primarily attributable to a more favorable estimated full year geographical mix of earnings partially offset by the estimated increase in unrecognized tax benefits primarily related to transfer pricing matters impacting multiple tax jurisdictions.
7
Table of Contents
THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was enacted. This legislation includes significant provisions, such as the permanent extension of certain expiring provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, modifications to the international tax framework and the restoration of certain business tax provisions. The estimated fiscal 2027 impact of the provisions that became effective in fiscal 2027 is not expected to be material.
At September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026, total Other assets of $1,991 million and $1,919 million included $1,509 million and $1,427 million of deferred tax assets, respectively.
Supplier Finance Programs
Under its supplier finance programs, the Company agrees to pay the banks the stated amount of confirmed invoices from its designated suppliers on the due dates of the invoices. The Company may terminate the agreements upon written notice (with notice periods ranging from 30 to 60 days) or immediately upon a breach. The supplier invoices that have been confirmed as valid under the programs require payment in full within 90 days of the invoice date.
Outstanding obligations confirmed as valid totaling $44 million and $87 million as of September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026, respectively, are included in Accounts payable in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Other Accrued Liabilities
Other accrued liabilities consist of the following:
| (In millions) | September 30, 2026 | June 30, 2026 | ||||||||||||
Accrued employee compensation | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Accrued income taxes | ||||||||||||||
Accrued payroll and other non-income taxes | ||||||||||||||
Accrued restructuring | ||||||||||||||
Accrued sales incentives | ||||||||||||||
Accrued selling, advertising, marketing, promotion and product development | ||||||||||||||
Deferred revenue | ||||||||||||||
| Other | ||||||||||||||
Total other accrued liabilities | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
8
Table of Contents
THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
FASB ASU No. 2025-05 – Measurement of Credit Losses for Accounts Receivable and Contract Assets (Topic 326)
In July 2025, the FASB issued authoritative guidance related to the estimation of expected credit losses for current accounts receivable and current contract assets. The guidance allows entities to elect a practical expedient to assume that current conditions as of the balance sheet date do not change for the remaining life of the asset in the development of a reasonable and supportable forecast as part of estimating expected credit losses. Entities electing the practical expedient are still required to adjust historical loss information to reflect current conditions to the extent that historical loss information does not reflect current conditions. An entity that elects to use the practical expedient is required to disclose that fact.
Effective for the Company: The guidance became effective for the Company’s first quarter of fiscal 2027 and has been applied prospectively.
Impact on consolidated financial statements: The Company has elected to adopt the practical expedient related to the estimation of expected credit losses beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2027, which assumes that current conditions as of the balance sheet date do not change for the remaining life of the asset. When determining the appropriate allowance for credit losses, the Company will continue to evaluate certain criteria, including aging and historical write-offs and the current economic condition of specific customers. The adoption of this practical expedient did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
FASB ASU No. 2026-02 – Environmental Credits and Environmental Credit Obligations (Topic 818)
In May 2026, the FASB issued authoritative guidance establishing requirements for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of environmental credits and environmental credit obligations. Environmental credit assets should be recognized and measured, including both initial and subsequent measurement, based on their intended use as well as how the credits are obtained. Costs for environmental credits that do not meet the asset recognition criteria are expensed as incurred. Environmental credit obligation liabilities are measured based on the carrying amount of the environmental credit owned that are considered probable of being used to settle the obligation (funded portion), with any excess liability measured based on the fair value of the environmental credits necessary to settle that portion of the liability (unfunded portion) at the reporting date, with certain exceptions. Environmental credit assets and environmental credit obligations should be presented separately within an entity’s consolidated balance sheet. Entities are required to provide several quantitative and qualitative disclosures for their environmental credits and environmental obligations in annual reporting periods.
Effective for the Company: The guidance becomes effective for the Company’s first quarter of fiscal 2029 and is applied on a retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings (prior reporting periods are not recast). Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an annual reporting period.
Impact on consolidated financial statements: The Company is currently evaluating the impact that this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements.
FASB ASU No. 2025-10 – Accounting for Government Grants Received by Business Entities (Topic 832)
In December 2025, the FASB issued authoritative guidance on the recognition, measurement, and presentation of government grants received by business entities. A government grant is defined as a transfer of a monetary asset or a tangible nonmonetary asset, other than in an exchange transaction, from a government to an entity. Government grants are recognized in earnings in the same periods that the costs for which the grant was intended to compensate are recognized. A government grant can be recognized once it is probable that both of the following conditions are met: (1) the company will comply with the conditions attached to the grant and (2) the grant will be received. The guidance differentiates between a grant related to an asset and a grant related to income, which is based on the purpose and conditions of the grant. A grant related to an asset is a government grant that is conditioned on the purchase, construction, or acquisition of an asset and is recognized on the balance sheet once the probable threshold is met and the related costs are incurred. The guidance allows companies to make an accounting policy election to use either a deferred income approach or a cost accumulation approach for recognition of a grant of an asset. A grant related to income is a government grant that does not meet the definition of a grant related to an asset and is recognized in earnings on a systematic and rational basis over the periods the related costs are recognized as expenses. The guidance allows alternative accounting policies for the financial statement presentation of a government grant, depending on the type of grant as well as new disclosure requirements for grants related to an asset and grants of tangible nonmonetary assets.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Effective for the Company: The guidance becomes effective for the Company’s first quarter of fiscal 2030. The guidance can be applied on a modified prospective basis, modified retrospective basis or a full retrospective basis. Early adoption is permitted.
Impact on consolidated financial statements: The Company is currently evaluating the impact that this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements.
FASB ASU No. 2025-06 – Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40)
In September 2025, the FASB issued authoritative guidance to modernize the accounting for the costs to develop software for internal use to align better with current software development methods, such as agile programming. Capitalization of eligible costs will begin when (1) management has authorized and committed to funding the software project, and (2) it is probable that the project will be completed and the software will be used to perform the function intended. In evaluating whether it is probable the project will be completed, entities are required to consider whether there is significant uncertainty associated with the development activities of the software. The new standard does not change the types of costs that are capitalizable once the threshold for capitalization is met. Capitalization ceases when the software project is substantially complete and ready for its intended use, which typically occurs after all substantial testing is completed. Furthermore, the guidance supersedes website development costs guidance and incorporates the recognition requirements for website-specific development costs into Subtopic 350-40. The guidance clarifies that existing disclosure requirements under ASC 360 for property, plant and equipment apply to capitalized costs under the new standard, regardless of how the internal-use software is classified on the balance sheet or how it was acquired.
Effective for the Company: The guidance becomes effective for the Company’s first quarter of fiscal 2029. The guidance can be applied prospectively, retrospectively or through a modified transition approach. Early adoption is permitted.
Impact on consolidated financial statements: The Company is currently evaluating the impact that this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements.
FASB ASU No. 2024-03 and 2025-01 – Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses (Subtopic 220-40)
In November 2024 and January 2025, the FASB issued authoritative guidance requiring disclosures, in a tabular format in the notes to the consolidated financial statements, on the disaggregation of relevant expense captions that are included on the face of the consolidated statement of earnings within continuing operations. The relevant expense captions are required to be disaggregated into natural expense categories including purchases of inventory, employee compensation, depreciation and intangible asset amortization. The guidance also requires certain expenses, gains or losses that require disclosure under existing U.S. GAAP, and that are recorded in a relevant expense caption on the face of the consolidated statement of earnings, to be presented in the same tabular disclosure. Qualitative disclosures about any remaining amounts in relevant expense line items are required as well. In addition, companies are required to disclose the total amount of selling expenses and, on an annual basis, how it defines selling expenses.
Effective for the Company: The guidance is effective for the Company’s fiscal year ending June 30, 2028 Form 10-K and then in interim periods beginning in the Company’s first quarter of fiscal 2029. Early adoption is permitted. The guidance should be applied on a prospective basis; however, retrospective application is permitted.
Impact on consolidated financial statements: The Company is currently evaluating the impact that this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statement disclosures.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 2 – GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill
The Company assigns goodwill at the time of acquisition to a reporting unit, which is one level below the Company's operating segments. The skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care product categories are the Company's operating segments.
The following table presents goodwill by product category and the related change in the carrying amount:
| (In millions) | Skin Care | Makeup | Fragrance | Hair Care | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance as of June 30, 2026 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accumulated impairments | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Translation adjustments, goodwill | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Translation adjustments, accumulated impairments | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance as of September 30, 2026 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Goodwill | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accumulated impairments | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total goodwill | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Intangible Assets
Other intangible assets consist of the following:
| September 30, 2026 | June 30, 2026 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | Gross Carrying Value | Accumulated Amortization | Total Net Book Value | Gross Carrying Value | Accumulated Amortization | Total Net Book Value | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Amortizable intangible assets: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Customer lists and other | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-amortizable intangible assets: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Trademarks | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total other intangible assets, net | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The aggregate amortization expense related to amortizable intangible assets was $26 The estimated aggregate amortization expense for the remainder of fiscal 2027 and for each of the next four fiscal years related to amortizable intangible assets as of September 30, 2026 is as follows:
| Fiscal | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2027 | 2028 | 2029 | 2030 | 2031 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Estimated aggregate amortization expense | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 3 – CHARGES ASSOCIATED WITH RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER ACTIVITIES
Restructuring Program Component of the Profit Recovery and Growth Plan
As announced on November 1, 2023, the Company launched the Profit Recovery and Growth Plan ("PRGP") to help progressively rebuild its profit margins in fiscal years 2025 and 2026.
As a component of the PRGP, on February 5, 2024, the Company announced a two-year restructuring program. The Company committed to this course of action on February 1, 2024. The Company planned to substantially complete specific initiatives under the restructuring program through fiscal 2026.
After reviewing additional potential initiatives and the progress of previously approved initiatives, on February 3, 2025, the Company committed to the expansion of the PRGP, including an expansion of the restructuring program.
The expanded component of the restructuring program began during the Company’s fiscal 2025 third quarter with all initiatives expected to be approved by the end of fiscal 2026, with specific initiatives under the expanded component of the restructuring program expected to be substantially completed by the end of fiscal 2027. The focus of the overall expanded restructuring program (collectively the “Restructuring Program”) includes (i) reorganization and rightsizing of certain areas, (ii) simplification and acceleration of processes, (iii) outsourcing of select services and (iv) evolution of go-to-market footprint and selling models.
As of June 30, 2026, approvals under the Restructuring Program concluded, and by the end of fiscal 2027, the cumulative approved initiatives are expected to be substantially completed.
Based on the total approved initiatives, the Company estimates a final net reduction of approximately 10,000 positions globally. This net reduction takes into account the elimination of positions after retraining and redeployment of certain employees in select areas.
Based on the total approved initiatives, the Company estimates total restructuring and other charges of approximately $1,700 million, before taxes, consisting of employee-related costs, asset-related costs, contract terminations and other costs associated with implementing these initiatives. Other than the non-cash charges, initiatives are funded from cash provided by operations.
Additional information relating to the Company's Profit Recovery and Growth Plan and related Restructuring Program, as well as the cumulative Restructuring Program approvals through June 30, 2026 by major cost type and specific actions taken since the inception of the Restructuring Program are included in Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 7 - Charges Associated with Restructuring and Other Activities in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026.
Restructuring Program Restructuring and Other Charges
The Company classifies restructuring charges as follows:
Employee-Related Costs – Employee-related costs are primarily comprised of severance and other post-employment benefit costs, calculated based on salary levels, prior service and other statutory minimum benefits, if applicable.
Asset-Related Costs – Asset-related costs primarily consist of asset write-offs or accelerated depreciation related to long-lived assets (including operating lease right-of-use assets) that will be taken out of service prior to their existing useful life as a direct result of a restructuring initiative.
Contract Terminations – Costs related to contract terminations include continuing payments to a third party after the Company has ceased benefiting from the rights conveyed in the contract, or a payment made to terminate a contract prior to its expiration.
Other Exit Costs – Other exit costs related to restructuring activities generally include costs to relocate facilities or employees, recruiting to fill positions as a result of relocation of operations, and outplacement for separated employees.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Company classifies other charges associated with restructuring activities as follows:
Sales Returns and Cost of Sales – Product returns (offset by the related cost of sales) and inventory write-offs or write-downs as a direct result of an approved restructuring initiative to exit certain businesses or locations will be recorded as a component of Net sales and/or Cost of sales when estimable and reasonably assured.
Other Charges – Other charges related to the design and implementation of approved initiatives are charged to Operating expenses as incurred and primarily include the following:
•Consulting and other professional services for transition support, transformational organization design of the future structures and processes, as well as the implementation and execution thereof;
•Temporary labor backfill;
•Costs to establish and maintain a Project Management Office for the duration of the Restructuring Program, including internal costs for employees dedicated solely to project management activities, and consulting services to assist with business case development and execution; and
•Recruitment and training costs for new and reskilled employees to acquire and apply the capabilities needed to perform responsibilities as a direct result of an approved restructuring initiative.
The Company records approved charges associated with restructuring and other activities once the relevant accounting criteria have been met.
Total cumulative charges recorded associated with restructuring and other activities for the Restructuring Program were:
| Sales Returns (included in Net Sales) | Cost of Sales | Operating Expenses | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | Restructuring Charges | Other Charges | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total Charges | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative charges through June 30, 2026 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Three months ended September 30, 2026 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative charges through September 30, 2026 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Included in the above table, cumulative restructuring charges recorded by the Company in connection with the Restructuring Program as of September 30, 2026, by major cost type were:
| (In millions) | Employee- Related Costs | Asset- Related Costs | Contract Terminations | Other Exit Costs | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Restructuring Charges (Adjustments) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative charges through June 30, 2026 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Three months ended September 30, 2026 | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cumulative charges through September 30, 2026 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Changes in accrued restructuring charges from the Restructuring Program for the three months ended September 30, 2026 were:
| (In millions) | Employee- Related Costs | Asset- Related Costs | Contract Terminations | Other Exit Costs | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at June 30, 2026 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Charges (adjustments) | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash payments | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Non-cash asset-related costs | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Translation and other adjustments | ( | ( | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2026 | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Accrued restructuring charges at September 30, 2026 relating to the Restructuring Program are expected to result in cash expenditures funded from cash provided by operations of approximately $417 million, $78 million and $16 million for the remainder of fiscal 2027 and for fiscal 2028 and 2029, respectively.
Charges associated with restructuring and other activities are not allocated to the Company's product categories or geographic regions because they are centrally directed and controlled, are not included in internal measures of product category or geographic region performance and result from activities that are deemed Company-wide initiatives to redesign, resize and reorganize select areas of the business.
NOTE 4 – DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The Company addresses certain financial exposures through a controlled program of risk management that includes the use of derivative financial instruments. The Company does not utilize derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. At September 30, 2026, the notional amount of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments was $3,448 million.
Fair Value Hedges
The Company enters into interest rate contracts to manage the exposure to interest rate fluctuations on its funded indebtedness. At September 30, 2026, the Company has interest rate swap contracts, with notional amounts totaling $700 million, $300 million and $600 million to effectively convert the fixed rate interest on its 2030 Senior Notes, 2031 Senior Notes and 2034 Senior Notes, respectively, to variable interest rates based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") plus a margin. These interest rate swap contracts are designated as fair value hedges of the related long-term debt, and the changes in the fair value of the interest rate swap contracts are exactly offset by the change in the fair value of the underlying long-term debt.
The Company enters into cross-currency swap contracts to manage the exposure of foreign exchange rate fluctuations on its intercompany foreign currency denominated debt. At September 30, 2026, the Company has cross-currency swap contracts with notional amounts totaling $406 million, to hedge the impact of foreign currency changes on certain intercompany foreign currency denominated debt. The cross-currency swap contracts are designated as fair value hedges of the related intercompany debt, and the gains and losses representing hedge components included in the assessment of effectiveness are presented in the same line item as the earnings effect of the hedged transaction in the consolidated statements of earnings. Gains and losses on the derivative representing hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recognized over the life of the hedge on a systematic and rational basis. The earnings recognition of excluded components is presented in the same line item as the earnings effect of the hedged transaction in the consolidated statements of earnings. Any difference between the changes in the fair value of the excluded components and amounts recognized in earnings will be recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss ("AOCI").
The estimated net gain on the Company’s derivative financial instruments designated as fair value hedges as of September 30, 2026 that is expected to be reclassified from AOCI into earnings, net of tax, within the next twelve months is $11 million. The accumulated net gain on derivative financial instruments designated as fair value hedges in AOCI was $3 million and $6 million as of September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026, respectively.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Cash Flow Hedges
The Company enters into foreign currency forward contracts to hedge anticipated transactions denominated in foreign currencies, for periods consistent with the Company’s identified exposures. The purpose of the hedging activities is to minimize the effect of foreign exchange rate movements on the cash flows that the Company receives from foreign subsidiaries. The foreign currency forward contracts entered into to hedge anticipated transactions denominated in foreign currencies have been designated as cash flow hedges and have varying maturities through the end of June 2027. Hedge effectiveness of the foreign currency forward contracts is based on the forward method, which includes forward points in the effectiveness assessment. At September 30, 2026, the Company had cash flow hedges outstanding with notional amounts totaling $984 million.
For foreign currency forward contracts that are no longer deemed highly effective, hedge accounting is discontinued and gains and losses in AOCI are reclassified to Net sales when the underlying forecasted transaction occurs. If it is probable that the forecasted transaction will no longer occur, then any gains or losses in AOCI are reclassified to current-period Net sales. As of September 30, 2026, the Company’s foreign currency cash flow hedges were highly effective.
The Company may enter into interest rate forward contracts to hedge anticipated issuance of debt for periods consistent with the Company’s identified exposures. The purpose of the hedging activities is to minimize the effect of interest rate movements on the cost of debt issuance.
The estimated net loss on the Company’s derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges as of September 30, 2026 that is expected to be reclassified from AOCI into earnings, net of tax, within the next twelve months is $9 million. The accumulated net gain on derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges in AOCI was $22 million and $25 million as of September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026, respectively.
Net Investment Hedges
The Company enters into foreign currency forward contracts and cross-currency swap contracts, designated as net investment hedges, to hedge a portion of its net investment in certain foreign operations. Forward points and cross-currency basis spreads, respectively, are excluded from the effectiveness assessment and are recognized under a systematic and rational method over the life of the hedging instrument in Selling, general and administrative expenses. The purpose of the hedging activities is to minimize the effect of foreign exchange rate movements on the Company’s net investment in these foreign operations. The net investment hedge contracts have varying maturities through the end of November 2029. Hedge effectiveness of the net investment hedge contracts is based on the spot method. At September 30, 2026, the Company had net investment hedges outstanding with notional amounts totaling $1,113 million.
Credit Risk
As a matter of policy, the Company only enters into derivative contracts with counterparties that have a long-term credit rating of at least A- or higher by at least two nationally recognized rating agencies. The counterparties to these contracts are major financial institutions. Exposure to credit risk in the event of nonperformance by any of the counterparties is limited to the gross fair value of contracts in asset positions, which totaled $36 million at September 30, 2026. To manage this risk, the Company has strict counterparty credit guidelines that are continually monitored. Accordingly, management believes risk of loss under these hedging contracts is remote.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The fair values of the Company’s derivative financial instruments included in the consolidated balance sheets are presented as follows:
| Asset Derivatives | Liability Derivatives | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Fair Value (1) | Fair Value (1) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | Balance Sheet Location | September 30, 2026 | June 30, 2026 | Balance Sheet Location | September 30, 2026 | June 30, 2026 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency forward contracts | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ | $ | Other accrued liabilities | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cross-currency swap contracts(2) | Prepaid expenses and other current assets; Other assets | Other accrued liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest rate contracts | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | Other accrued liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency forward contracts | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | Other accrued liabilities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total derivatives | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)See Note 5 – Fair Value Measurements for further information about how the fair value of derivative assets and liabilities are determined.
(2)Included in the asset derivatives for the cross-currency swap contracts at September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026 is approximately $6 million and $17 million, respectively, classified within Other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The amounts of the gains and losses related to the Company’s derivative financial instruments designated as hedging instruments that are included in the assessment of effectiveness are as follows:
| Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives | Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Earnings | Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Earnings(1) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September 30, | Three Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency forward contracts | $ | ( | $ | Net sales | $ | ( | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total cash flow hedges | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships(2): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency forward contracts(3) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cross-currency swap contracts(4) | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total net investment hedges | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total derivatives | $ | ( | $ | $ | ( | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)There was no amount reclassified into the accompanying consolidated statements of earnings as a result of the discontinuance of cash flow hedges because it is probable that forecasted transactions will not occur by the end of the original time period.
(2)Included within translation adjustments as a component of AOCI on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.
(3)During each of the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025, the gain recognized in the accompanying consolidated statements of earnings from foreign currency forward contracts related to the amount excluded from effectiveness testing was $3
(4)During each of the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025, the gain recognized in the accompanying consolidated statements of earnings from cross-currency swap contracts related to the amount excluded from effectiveness testing was $3
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Derivatives | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Derivatives | Three Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cross-currency swap contracts (1) | Selling, general and administrative | $ | ( | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest rate contracts (2) | Interest expense | $ | ( | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)Changes in the fair value representing hedge components included in the assessment of effectiveness of the cross-currency swap contracts are exactly offset by the change in the fair value of the underlying intercompany foreign currency denominated debt. The gain recognized in the accompanying consolidated statements of earnings from cross-currency swap contracts related to the amount excluded from effectiveness testing during each of the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 was $5
(2)Changes in the fair value of the interest rate contracts are exactly offset by the change in the fair value of the underlying long-term debt.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Additional information regarding the cumulative amount of fair value hedging gain (loss) recognized in the accompanying consolidated statements of earnings for items designated and qualifying as hedged items in fair value hedges is as follows:
| (In millions) | ||||||||||||||
| Line Item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in Which the Hedged Item is Included | Carrying Amount of the Hedged Liabilities | Cumulative Amount of Fair Value Hedging Gain (Loss) Included in the Carrying Amount of the Hedged Liability | ||||||||||||
| September 30, 2026 | September 30, 2026 | |||||||||||||
| Long-term debt | $ | $ | ( | |||||||||||
| Intercompany debt | $ | $ | ( | |||||||||||
Additional information regarding the effects of fair value and cash flow hedging relationships for derivatives designated and qualifying as hedging instruments is as follows:
Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2026 | 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | Net Sales | Selling, General and Administrative | Interest Expense | Net Sales | Selling, General and Administrative | Interest Expense | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total amounts of income and expense line items presented in the accompanying consolidated statements of earnings in which the effects of fair value and cash flow hedges are recorded | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The effects of fair value and cash flow hedging relationships: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gain (loss) on fair value hedge relationships – interest rate contracts: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hedged item | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivatives designated as hedging instruments | N/A | N/A | ( | N/A | N/A | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gain (loss) on fair value hedge relationships – cross-currency swap contracts: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hedged item | N/A | N/A | N/A | ( | N/A | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivatives designated as hedging instruments | N/A | ( | N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Loss on cash flow hedge relationships – foreign currency forward contracts: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amount of loss reclassified from AOCI | ( | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
N/A (Not applicable)
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The amount of gains and losses related to the Company’s derivative financial instruments not designated as hedging instruments are presented as follows:
| Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Derivatives | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Derivatives | Three Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency forward contracts | Selling, general and administrative | $ | ( | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Company's derivative financial instruments are subject to enforceable master netting agreements. These agreements permit the net settlement of these contracts on a per-institution basis; however, the Company records the fair value on a gross basis on its consolidated balance sheets based on maturity dates, including those subject to master netting arrangements. The following table provides information as if the Company had elected to offset the asset and liability balances of derivative financial instruments, netted in accordance with various criteria in the event of default or termination as stipulated by the terms of netting arrangements with each of the counterparties:
As of September 30, 2026 | As of June 30, 2026 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | Gross Amounts of Assets / (Liabilities) Presented in Balance Sheet | Contracts Subject to Netting | Net Amounts of Assets / (Liabilities) | Gross Amounts of Assets / (Liabilities) Presented in Balance Sheet | Contracts Subject to Netting | Net Amounts of Assets / (Liabilities) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Derivative Financial Instruments | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivative assets | $ | $ | ( | $ | $ | $ | ( | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivative liabilities | ( | ( | ( | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total derivatives | $ | ( | $ | $ | ( | $ | ( | $ | $ | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
NOTE 5 – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
The Company records certain of its financial assets and liabilities at fair value, which is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability, in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability, in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The accounting for fair value measurements must be applied to nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities that require initial measurement or remeasurement at fair value, which principally consist of assets and liabilities acquired through business combinations and goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets and long-lived assets for the purposes of calculating potential impairment. The Company is required to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value are as follows:
Level 1: Inputs based on quoted market prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets at the measurement date.
Level 2: Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3: Inputs reflect management’s best estimate of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. The inputs are unobservable in the market and significant to the instrument’s valuation.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following table presents the Company’s hierarchy for its financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2026:
| (In millions) | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Money market funds | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency forward contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cross-currency swap contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency forward contracts | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest rate contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cross-currency swap contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
The following table presents the Company’s hierarchy for its financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of June 30, 2026:
| (In millions) | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Assets: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Money market funds | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency forward contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cross-currency swap contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Foreign currency forward contracts | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest rate contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cross-currency swap contracts | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
The estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments not measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:
| September 30, 2026 | June 30, 2026 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | Carrying Amount | Fair Value | Carrying Amount | Fair Value | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Current and long-term debt | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Notes payable and deferred consideration | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of the Company’s financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate that value:
Cash and cash equivalents – Cash and all highly-liquid securities with original maturities of three months or less are classified as cash and cash equivalents, primarily consisting of cash deposits in interest bearing accounts, time deposits and money market funds (classified within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy). Cash deposits in interest bearing accounts and time deposits are carried at cost, which approximates fair value, due to the short maturity of these cash equivalent instruments.
Foreign currency forward contracts – The fair values of the Company’s foreign currency forward contracts were determined using an industry-standard valuation model, which is based on an income approach. The significant observable inputs to the model, such as swap yield curves, SOFR forward curves and currency spot and forward rates, were obtained from an independent pricing service.
Cross-currency swap contracts – The fair values of the Company’s cross-currency swap contracts were determined using an industry-standard valuation model, which is based on the income approach. The significant observable inputs to the model, such as swap yield curves and currency spot and forward rates, were obtained from independent pricing services.
Interest rate contracts – The fair values of the Company’s interest rate contracts were determined using an industry-standard valuation model, which is based on the income approach. The significant observable inputs to the model, such as treasury yield curves, swap yield curves and SOFR forward curves, were obtained from independent pricing services.
Current and long-term debt – The fair value of the Company’s debt was estimated based on the current rates offered to the Company for debt with the same remaining maturities. To a lesser extent, debt also includes finance lease obligations for which the carrying amount approximates the fair value. The Company’s debt is classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy.
Notes payable and deferred consideration – Notes payable and deferred consideration consist primarily of obligations to a vendor related to deferred service payments. The fair value of notes payable and deferred consideration are calculated based on the net present value of cash payments using an estimated borrowing rate based on quoted prices for a similar liability. The Company’s notes payable and deferred consideration are classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy.
NOTE 6 – REVENUE RECOGNITION
Disaggregation of net sales by the Company's geographic regions are as follows:
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||
| The Americas | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Europe, the United Kingdom and Ireland and Emerging Markets ("EUKEM") | ||||||||||||||
Asia/Pacific(1) | ||||||||||||||
Mainland China | ||||||||||||||
| Returns associated with restructuring and other activities | ( | |||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
(1)The net sales from the Company’s travel retail business are included in the Asia/Pacific region.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable, net is stated net of the allowance for doubtful accounts, including credit losses, and customer deductions totaling $48 million and $44 million as of September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026, respectively. Payment terms are short-term in nature and are generally less than one year.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Changes in the allowance for credit losses are as follows:
| (In millions) | September 30, 2026 | |||||||
| Balance at June 30, 2026 | $ | |||||||
| Provision for expected credit losses | ||||||||
| Write-offs, net & other | ( | |||||||
| Balance at September 30, 2026 | $ | |||||||
The remaining balance of the allowance for doubtful accounts and customer deductions of $15 million and $14 million as of September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026, respectively, relates to non-credit losses, which are primarily due to customer deductions.
Deferred Revenue
Changes in deferred revenue are as follows:
September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Deferred revenue, beginning of period | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Revenue deferred during the period | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Deferred revenue, end of period | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Transaction Price Allocated to the Remaining Performance Obligations
The aggregate transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations that are unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied) as of September 30, 2026 was $779 million, of which approximately $351 million is expected to be recognized within the next 12 months, with the remainder thereafter. These amounts are comprised of deferred revenue and future royalty revenue from the Company's license arrangements.
At September 30, 2026, the combined estimated revenue expected to be recognized in the next twelve months related to performance obligations included in deferred revenue for customer loyalty programs, gift with purchase promotions, purchase with purchase promotions, gift card liabilities and the Marcolin license arrangement related to TOM FORD is $319 million. The remaining balance of deferred revenue as of September 30, 2026 will be recognized as revenue beyond the next twelve months, of which $195 million relates to the non-refundable upfront payment received as part of the Marcolin licensing arrangement that is being recognized on a straight-line basis over the estimated economic life of the license, which is 20 years ending in fiscal 2043.
As of September 30, 2026, the contractually guaranteed minimum royalty amounts due to the Company in connection with its license arrangements for the remainder of fiscal 2027 and future periods are as follows:
| (In millions) | Minimum Remaining Royalties | |||||||
| Fiscal 2027 | $ | |||||||
| Fiscal 2028 | $ | |||||||
| Fiscal 2029 | $ | |||||||
| Fiscal 2030 | $ | |||||||
| Fiscal 2031 | $ | |||||||
| Thereafter | $ | |||||||
The royalty revenue associated with TOM FORD is included within the other category and within The Americas region.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 7 – PENSION AND POST-RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
The Company maintains pension plans covering substantially all of its full-time employees for its U.S. operations and a majority of its international operations. The Company also maintains post-retirement benefit plans that provide certain medical and dental benefits to eligible employees. Descriptions of these plans are included in Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 15 – Pension and Post-retirement Benefit Plans in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026.
The components of net periodic benefit cost for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 consisted of the following:
| Pension Plans | Other than Pension Plans | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| U.S. | International | Post-retirement | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | 2026 | 2025 | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Service cost | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest cost | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Expected return on plan assets | ( | ( | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amortization of: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Actuarial loss | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Prior service cost | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Special termination benefits | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net periodic benefit cost | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets related to the Company’s pension and post-retirement benefit plans consist of the following:
| (In millions) | September 30, 2026 | June 30, 2026 | ||||||||||||
| Other assets | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Other accrued liabilities | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Other noncurrent liabilities | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Funded status | ( | ( | ||||||||||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss | ||||||||||||||
| Net amount recognized | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
NOTE 8 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Legal Proceedings
The Company is involved, from time to time, in litigation and other legal proceedings incidental to its business, including product liability (including asbestos-related claims), advertising, regulatory, employment, intellectual property, real estate, environmental, trade relations, securities, tax and privacy matters.
The Company records accruals for loss contingencies when a loss is probable and reasonably estimable, and estimates reasonably possible losses or ranges of losses in excess of accrued amounts, when such estimates can be made. Such estimates involve significant judgment regarding future events and uncertainties, including timing of related payments, and are adjusted as appropriate. Legal defense costs are expensed as incurred.
See below for the assessment of loss contingencies related to the Company's Securities Class Action and Derivative Matters and Cosmetic Talcum Powder Matters.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Management believes that the outcome of all other pending litigation and legal proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s operations or consolidated financial statements. Reasonably possible losses in excess of accrued amounts are not expected to be material.
Management's assessments of the Company's pending litigation and other legal proceedings, including the stockholder derivative complaints, included in the Securities Class Action and Derivative Matters section below, and Cosmetic Talcum Powder Matters, are subject to inherent uncertainties and may change based on future developments.
Securities Class Action and Derivative Matters
During the fiscal 2026 fourth quarter, the parties to the securities class action litigation (alleging violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 based on alleged materially false and misleading statements) reached an agreement in principle to settle. As of June 30, 2026, the total settlement amount was funded, which includes the amounts paid by the insurance carriers. As such there are no amounts related to this matter reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2026 or June 30, 2026. On August 20, 2026, the Company received final approval of the settlement amount from the Court. A minimal number of reported class members opted out of the settlement. At this time, no complaints have been filed by these members, and the Company believes it is not possible at this time to reasonably assess the outcome of any potential complaints or to estimate the loss or range of losses, if any. There is no impact to the fiscal 2027 consolidated financial statements for the securities class action litigation.
Additional information relating to the securities class action litigation and related settlement is included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026.
Stockholder derivative complaints were filed on February 1, 2024 and March 15, 2024 in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against certain current and former officers and directors of the Company and were voluntarily dismissed without prejudice in April 2024. The Company subsequently received stockholder litigation demands requesting that the Board investigate similar allegations. A committee of the Board has been formed to review these demands and make recommendations, as appropriate.
The Company believes that it is not possible at this time to reasonably assess the outcome of these derivative matters or to estimate the loss or range of losses, if any.
Cosmetic Talcum Powder Matters
The Company has been named as a defendant in civil actions alleging that certain cosmetic talcum powder products were contaminated with asbestos. These matters generally involve multiple co-defendants. The Company stands behind the safety of its products for intended use, and the Company and its legal counsel believe that the Company has strong legal grounds to contest these cases and is challenging them vigorously. The Company cannot predict the outcome of each individual case pending against it.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In fiscal 2025, in view of the number of cases pending against the Company as well as the evolution of the litigation landscape and expectations regarding future claims at that time, the Company took action from the end of August 2024 through October 2024 to mitigate a portion of its future exposure. During that period, the Company entered into agreements with certain plaintiff law firms to resolve over 200 pending matters, which was a portion of the pending matters that existed at that time, and establish a framework for resolving potential future claims brought by these plaintiff law firms from January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2029, subject to annual caps (the "Talcum litigation settlement agreements").
In connection with the Talcum litigation settlement agreements, the Company recorded a charge of $159 million in fiscal 2025, representing its best estimate of probable losses for current and potential future claims under these agreements, and as of September 30, 2026, $27 million and $63 million are recorded in Other accrued liabilities and Other noncurrent liabilities, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet for these liabilities. Additional charges and reasonably possible losses related to these Talcum litigation settlement agreements, in excess of the initial charge have not been and are not expected to be material.
Outside of the Talcum litigation settlement agreements, other claims are brought and may be brought by plaintiff firms not party to those agreements. As of September 30, 2026, there were 116 cases pending against the Company in U.S. state courts, as compared to 118 cases as of June 30, 2026. During the three months ended September 30, 2026, 27 cases were filed and 29 cases were resolved. For certain claims brought against the Company that have advanced to later stages, specific accruals are recorded as appropriate, and for the remaining pending claims, the Company estimates losses on an aggregate basis based on historical experience.
While amounts recorded (outside the Talcum litigation settlement agreements) for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025, respectively, to either settle cases, or accrue for probable losses, are not material, adverse outcomes on pending or future claims could be material. The Company cannot reasonably estimate the range of reasonably possible losses in excess of accrued amounts for these or future matters. The assessment of the Company’s current cases is ongoing and could change in light of the discovery of additional facts with respect to these cases not presently known to the Company, further legal analysis, or determinations by courts, juries or other finders of fact or deciders of law that vary from the Company’s evaluation of the probable liability or outcome of such cases. The number of new cases filed against the Company has increased in recent periods, consistent with broader trends in litigation involving talcum products generally, and the Company expects that the number of new cases filed against it, and the number of cases pending against it, may continue to increase in future periods.
For the cosmetic talcum powder matters, the Company maintains insurance policies with limited coverage that may offset a portion of defense and settlement costs, subject to policy terms. Recoveries during the period and historically have not been material.
NOTE 9 – STOCK PROGRAMS
Additional information relating to the Company's stock programs are included in Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 18 - Stock Programs in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026.
Total net stock-based compensation expense is attributable to the granting of, and the remaining requisite service periods of stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and performance share units (“PSUs”). Compensation expense attributable to net stock-based compensation was $70 million and $88 million for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025, respectively.
Stock Options
During the three months ended September 30, 2026, the Company granted stock options in respect of approximately 0.7 million shares of Class A Common Stock with a weighted average exercise price per share of $106.21 and a weighted average grant date fair value per share of $42.99 . The fair value of each option grant was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Restricted Stock Units
During the three months ended September 30, 2026, the Company granted RSUs in respect of approximately 2.3 million shares of Class A Common Stock with a weighted average grant date fair value per share of $106.06 that, at the time of grant, are scheduled to vest at 0.9 million, 0.8 million, and 0.6 million shares per year, in fiscal 2028, fiscal 2029 and fiscal 2030, respectively. Vesting of RSUs is generally subject to the continued employment or the retirement of the grantees. The RSUs are generally accompanied by dividend equivalent rights, payable upon settlement of the RSUs either in cash or shares (based on the terms of the particular award) and, as such, were generally valued at the closing market price of the Company’s Class A Common Stock on the date of grant.
Performance Share Units
During the three months ended September 30, 2026, the Company granted PSUs with a target payout of approximately 0.2 million shares of Class A Common Stock with a grant date fair value per share of $106.21 , the amount of which will be settled in stock subject to the achievement of the Company’s net sales goals for the three fiscal years ending June 30, 2029 and operating income margin goal for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2029, all subject to continued employment or the retirement of the grantees. PSUs are accompanied by dividend equivalent rights that will be payable in cash upon settlement of the PSUs and, as such, were valued at the closing market value of the Company’s Class A Common Stock on the date of grant.
For the PSUs granted in fiscal 2024 with a performance period ended June 30, 2026, the target goals set at the time of issuance were not achieved, resulting in no shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock issued related to these awards.
NOTE 10 – NET EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE
Net earnings per common share (“basic EPS”) is computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and shares underlying RSUs and PSUs where the vesting conditions have been met. Net earnings per common share assuming dilution (“diluted EPS”) is computed by reflecting potential dilution from stock-based awards using the treasury stock method.
A reconciliation between the numerator and denominator of the basic and diluted EPS computations is as follows:
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions, except per share data) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Numerator: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net earnings | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Denominator: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding – Basic | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Effect of dilutive stock options | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Effect of RSUs | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Effect of PSUs | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding – Diluted | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net earnings per common share: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Basic | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Diluted | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The shares of Class A Common Stock underlying stock options, RSUs and PSUs that were excluded in the computation of diluted EPS because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive were as follows:
Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stock options | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
RSUs and PSUs | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 11 – EQUITY
Total Stockholders’ Equity
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(In millions, except per share data) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock, beginning of the period | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock, end of the period | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Paid-in capital, beginning of the period | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock dividends | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Paid-in capital, end of the period | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Retained earnings, beginning of the period | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common stock dividends | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net earnings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Retained earnings, end of the period | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss, beginning of the period | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other comprehensive earnings (loss) | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss, end of the period | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Treasury stock, beginning of the period | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Treasury stock, end of the period | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total equity | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash dividends declared per common share | $ | $ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The following is a summary of quarterly cash dividends declared per share on the Company’s Class A and Class B Common Stock during the three months ended September 30, 2026:
| Date Declared | Record Date | Payable Date | Amount per Share | |||||||||||||||||
| August 18, 2026 | August 31, 2026 | September 15, 2026 | $ | |||||||||||||||||
On October 30, 2026, a dividend was declared in the amount of $.35
Common Stock
Beginning in December 2022, the Company suspended the repurchase of shares of its Class A Common Stock under its publicly announced program. The Company may resume repurchases in the future.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The following table represents changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, by component for the three months ended September 30, 2026:
| (In millions) | Net Cash Flow Hedge | Cross-Currency Swap Contracts - Fair Value Hedge(1) | Amounts Included in Net Periodic Benefit Cost | Translation Adjustments | Total | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at June 30, 2026 | $ | $ | $ | ( | $ | ( | $ | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
OCI before reclassifications (2) | ( | ( | (3) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amounts reclassified to Net earnings | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net current-period OCI | ( | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at September 30, 2026 | $ | $ | $ | ( | $ | ( | $ | ( | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)The gain recognized in AOCI, net of tax from cross-currency swap contracts represents the amount excluded from effectiveness testing.
(2)The tax benefit (provision) included in Net Cash Flow Hedge, Cross-Currency Swap Contracts - Fair Value Hedge, Amounts Included in Net Periodic Benefit Cost and Translation Adjustments was $3 million, $(1 ) million, $3 million and $5 million, respectively.
(3)See Note 4 – Derivative Financial Instruments for gains (losses) relating to net investment hedges.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following table represents the effects of reclassification adjustments from AOCI into net earnings for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025:
| Amount Reclassified from AOCI | Affected Line Item in Consolidated Statements of Earnings | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Loss on Cash Flow Hedges | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency forward contracts | $ | ( | $ | Net sales | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Benefit for income taxes | Provision for income taxes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total loss on cash flow hedges, net of tax | ( | Net earnings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gain on Cross-Currency Swap Contracts - Fair Value Hedge | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cross-currency swap contracts | Selling, general and administrative | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Provision for income taxes | ( | ( | Provision for income taxes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total gain on cross-currency swap contracts - fair value hedge, net of tax | Net earnings | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Retirement Plan and Other Retiree Benefit Adjustments | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amortization of prior service cost | Other components of net periodic benefit cost | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amortization of actuarial loss | ( | ( | Other components of net periodic benefit cost | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Total retirement plan and other retiree benefit adjustments, before tax | ( | ( | Other components of net periodic benefit cost | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Benefit for income taxes | Provision for income taxes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total retirement plan and other retiree benefit adjustments, net of tax | ( | ( | Net earnings | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total reclassification adjustments, net | $ | ( | $ | Net earnings | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
NOTE 12 – STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
Supplemental cash flow information for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 is as follows:
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||
| Cash: | ||||||||||||||
| Cash paid during the period for interest | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Cash paid during the period for income taxes, net of refunds received | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Non-cash investing and financing activities: | ||||||||||||||
| Property, plant and equipment accrued but unpaid | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
| Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new/modified operating lease liabilities | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 13 – SEGMENT DATA AND RELATED INFORMATION
Operating segments include components of an enterprise for which separate financial information is available that are regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. Although the Company operates in one business segment, beauty products, the chief operating decision maker evaluates performance based on its four major product categories: skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care. These product categories meet the definition of operating and reportable segments and, accordingly, additional financial data is provided below. Royalty revenue associated with the license of the TOM FORD trademark as well as sales and related results of ancillary products and services that do not fit within the Company's definitions of skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care are included in the other category.
Segment net sales and operating income is before the impacts of restructuring and other activities and the impacts from the other category described above. Returns and charges associated with restructuring and other activities are not allocated to the Company's segments because they are centrally directed and controlled, are not included in internal measures of segment performance and result from activities that are deemed Company-wide initiatives to redesign, resize and reorganize select areas of the business.
The assets and liabilities of the Company are managed centrally and are reported internally in the same manner as the consolidated financial statements; thus, no additional information is produced for the chief operating decision maker or included herein.
Information about the Company's four operating segments is as follows:
(In millions) | Three Months Ended September 30, 2026 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skin Care | Makeup | Fragrance | Hair Care | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net sales | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Less: Other category net sales | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Less: Returns associated with restructuring and other activities | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Segment net sales | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cost of sales | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative expenses | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Segment operating income | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other category operating income | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Charges associated with restructuring and other activities | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reconciliation to earnings before income taxes: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest income and investment income, net | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other components of net periodic benefit cost | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Earnings before income taxes | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Segment depreciation and amortization | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other category | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In millions) | Three Months Ended September 30, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skin Care | Makeup | Fragrance | Hair Care | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net sales | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Less: Other category net sales | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Less: Returns associated with restructuring and other activities | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Segment net sales | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cost of sales | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative expenses | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Segment operating income (loss) | $ | $ | ( | $ | $ | ( | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other category operating income | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Charges associated with restructuring and other activities | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reconciliation to earnings before income taxes: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest income and investment income, net | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other components of net periodic benefit cost | ( | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Earnings before income taxes | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Segment depreciation and amortization | $ | $ | $ | $ | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other category | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | $ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 14 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On October 5, 2026, the Company completed the acquisition of the remaining equity interest in Mountain Valley Springs India Private Limited, the owner of the Forest Essentials brand ("Forest Essentials"), an India-based beauty brand grounded in the science of modern Luxurious Ayurveda. The acquisition is expected to further strengthen the Company's portfolio and expand the global reach of the Forest Essentials brand. Prior to the acquisition, the Company held a 49 % equity interest in Forest Essentials that was accounted for under the equity method. The transaction will be accounted for as a business combination.
The purchase price for the remaining 51 % equity interest of $160 million was funded from cash on hand, and is subject to customary post-closing adjustments. In connection with obtaining a controlling interest in Forest Essentials, the Company expects to recognize a gain in the fiscal 2027 second quarter of approximately $94 million resulting from the remeasurement of its previously held 49 % equity interest to fair value. Additionally, the Company paid $37 million related to a one-time inducement payment, which is excluded from the consideration transferred, and will be recognized as an operating expense in the fiscal 2027 second quarter.
Given the limited time since the acquisition date, the initial accounting of the transaction remains incomplete as of the date these consolidated financial statements were issued, as well as consideration of certain required disclosures.
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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. is one of the world’s leading manufacturers, marketers and sellers of quality skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care products. We are a steward of over 20 luxury and prestige brands globally. Our products are sold in approximately 150 countries and territories. We operate as a wholesaler, with our products sold in brick-and-mortar locations and on various e-commerce platforms, including those operated by department stores, duty-free retailers, specialty-multi retailers, online pure players, upscale perfumeries and pharmacies, and top-tier salons and spas. Additionally, we operate a direct-to-consumer business across freestanding stores, our brands' websites and third-party online platforms.
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2026 | 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in millions) | $ | % | $ | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 3,715 | 100.0 | % | $ | 3,481 | 100.0 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cost of sales | 902 | 24.3 | 927 | 26.6 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gross profit | 2,813 | 75.7 | 2,554 | 73.4 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating expenses: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative | 2,365 | 63.7 | 2,296 | 66.0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Restructuring and other charges | 40 | 1.1 | 89 | 2.6 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total operating expenses | 2,405 | 64.7 | 2,385 | 68.5 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | 408 | 11.0 | 169 | 4.9 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | 83 | 2.2 | 86 | 2.5 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest income and investment income, net | 25 | 0.7 | 30 | 0.9 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other components of net periodic benefit cost | 5 | 0.1 | 4 | 0.1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Earnings before income taxes | 345 | 9.3 | 109 | 3.1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Provision for income taxes | 112 | 3.0 | 62 | 1.8 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net earnings | $ | 233 | 6.3 | % | $ | 47 | 1.4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Not adjusted for differences caused by rounding
The following table is a comparative summary of operating results for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025, for our product categories and geographic regions and reflects the basis of presentation described in Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 13 – Segment Data and Related Information, for our product categories that meet the definition of reportable segments, for all periods presented. Royalty revenue from license arrangements, and products and services that do not fit within our definitions of skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care have been included in the “other” category.
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| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| NET SALES | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| By Product Category: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skin Care | $ | 1,651 | $ | 1,575 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Makeup | 1,048 | 1,030 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fragrance | 861 | 721 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hair Care | 128 | 129 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | 28 | 25 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 3,716 | 3,480 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Returns associated with restructuring and other activities(1) | (1) | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 3,715 | $ | 3,481 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
By Geographic Region(2): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Americas | $ | 1,227 | $ | 1,174 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Europe, the United Kingdom and Ireland and Emerging Markets ("EUKEM") | 923 | 901 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Asia/Pacific | 952 | 873 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mainland China | 614 | 532 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 3,716 | 3,480 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Returns associated with restructuring and other activities(1) | (1) | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 3,715 | $ | 3,481 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| By Product Category: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skin Care | $ | 262 | $ | 187 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Makeup | 3 | (15) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fragrance | 166 | 86 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hair Care | 5 | (12) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | 13 | 9 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 449 | 255 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Charges associated with restructuring and other activities(1) | (41) | (86) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 408 | $ | 169 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
By Geographic Region(2): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Americas | $ | 114 | $ | 87 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
EUKEM | 44 | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Asia/Pacific | 259 | 150 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mainland China | 32 | 12 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 449 | 255 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Charges associated with restructuring and other activities(1) | (41) | (86) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 408 | $ | 169 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1) Returns and charges associated with restructuring and other activities are not allocated to our product categories or geographic regions because they are centrally directed and controlled, are not included in internal measures of product category or geographic region performance and result from activities that are deemed Company-wide initiatives to redesign, resize and reorganize select areas of the business. Accordingly, the discussions of Net sales and Operating results by Product Categories and Geographic Regions below exclude the impacts of returns and charges associated with restructuring and other activities.
(2) The net sales and operating results from our travel retail business are included in the Asia/Pacific region.
Period-over-period changes in our net sales are generally attributable to the impacts from (i) pricing on our base portfolio, including changes in mix and those due to strategic pricing actions, (ii) volume on our base portfolio, combined with changes driven by the impact of new product innovation, (iii) acquisitions and/or divestitures, and/or (iv) foreign currency translation. The percentages disclosed for these impacts are calculated on an individual basis.
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The net sales impact from pricing consists of changes in list prices, due to strategic pricing actions, and mix shifts within and among product categories, geographic regions, brands and distribution channels. The prices at which we sell our products vary by brand, distribution channel (e.g., wholesale or direct-to-consumer) and may also vary by country. Our brands and products cover a broad array of pricing tiers. Prices of skin care and fragrance products are typically higher than makeup and hair care products.
New product innovation includes the introduction of new products, as well as changes related to existing products or where they are sold, including reformulations, regional expansion, repackaging and sets. A product is considered "new innovation" for the twelve-month period following the initial shipment date. Our innovation is launched at different price points than existing products and value derived from innovation may vary from year to year. We continually introduce new products, support new and established products through advertising, merchandising and sampling and phase out existing products that no longer meet the needs of our consumers or our objectives. The economics of developing, producing, launching, supporting and discontinuing products impact our sales and operating performance each period. The introduction of new products often has some cannibalizing effect on sales of existing products, inclusive of potential sales returns, which we take into account in our business planning. The impact of new product introductions, including timing compared to introductions in prior periods, also affects our results. For DECIEM brands, the impact of regional expansion into new markets following the initial twelve-month period continues to be excluded from the base portfolio pricing and volume calculations until the market is on a like for like basis in the base portfolio.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
We use certain non-GAAP financial measures, among other financial measures, to evaluate our operating performance, which represent the manner in which we conduct and view our business. Management believes that excluding certain items that are not comparable from period to period helps investors and others compare operating performance between periods. While we consider the non-GAAP measures useful in analyzing our results, they are not intended to replace, or act as a substitute for, any presentation included in the consolidated financial statements prepared in conformity with U.S. GAAP. See Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures beginning on page 47 for reconciliations between non-GAAP financial measures and the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measures.
We operate on a global basis, with the majority of our net sales generated outside the United States. Accordingly, fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates affect our results of operations. Therefore, we present certain net sales, operating results and diluted net earnings per common share information excluding the effect of foreign currency rate fluctuations to provide a framework for assessing the performance of our underlying business outside the United States. Constant currency information compares results between periods as if exchange rates had remained constant period-over-period. We calculate constant currency information by translating current-period results using prior-year monthly average foreign currency exchange rates and adjusting for the period-over-period impact of foreign currency cash flow hedging activities.
Outlook
While we have seen improvements within our business, we are mindful of areas of volatility and uncertainty globally that may impact our results. We continue to face challenges in key markets in the West, including markets in Western Europe and the United States. Within our Asia travel retail business, we continue to monitor the impacts of the change in duty-free retailers servicing the Beijing and Shanghai airports, including the related online businesses. We are also monitoring the conflict in the Middle East as it relates to our business in the domestic markets and travel retail locations in the region. Net sales from locations impacted by the conflict in the Middle East accounted for approximately 2% of consolidated net sales in fiscal 2026 and 2025. We continue to monitor and assess the impact that these areas of volatility and uncertainty may have on net sales and profitability, including impacts to our effective tax rate from changes to our geographical mix of earnings.
We are continuing to monitor and assess the potential effects of changing tariff conditions in the United States as well as in other markets in which we operate. These tariffs have led to significant volatility and uncertainty in global markets and difficulty in forecasting demand. We have implemented and are continuing to implement and consider additional mitigation measures. Our strategy remains optimizing our global supply chain network, by sourcing and manufacturing in the geography of sale where feasible. We also continue to leverage trade programs where available and monitor for additional opportunities as countries continue to update their trade programs. We anticipate tariffs to have an adverse effect on fiscal 2027 profitability and cash flows, and depending on actual rates and countries imposing tariffs such adverse impacts could be material.
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We continue to believe that the best way to increase long-term stockholder value is to provide superior products and services in the most efficient and effective manner while recognizing shifts in consumers’ behaviors and shopping practices. Accordingly, our long-term strategy has numerous initiatives across product categories, brands, geographic regions, channels of distribution and functions designed to grow our sales, provide cost efficiencies, leverage our strengths, such as our history of outstanding creativity and innovation, high quality products and services, and engaging communications, to make us more productive and profitable. We continue to execute against "Beauty Reimagined," our previously announced strategic vision which focuses on accelerating best-in-class consumer coverage, creating transformative innovation, boosting consumer-facing investments, fueling sustainable growth through bold efficiencies and reimagining the way we work, including through the execution of the Profit Recovery and Growth Plan ("PRGP").
We continue to monitor the effects of the global macro environment, including the risk of recession; currency volatility; inflationary pressures; supply chain challenges; social and political issues; competitive pressures; legal and regulatory matters, including the imposition of tariffs and sanctions; geopolitical tensions; and global security issues. We are also mindful of inflationary pressures (including those caused by tariffs) on our cost base and are monitoring the impact on consumer preferences, the impact of changes being made in the organization, including those related to Beauty Reimagined and the PRGP, as well as the actual and potential impact of changes that have been made and are expected to be made as part of the PRGP on suppliers, retailers and others, and challenges relating to successfully outsourcing select services. Declines in net sales and profitability have, and may continue to, adversely impact the goodwill and other intangible assets associated with our brands, as well as long-lived assets, potentially resulting in impairments.
Our ability to recognize deferred tax assets, inclusive of utilizing net operating loss carryforwards, tax credits, and other carryforwards is dependent on the generation of sufficient taxable income in future periods. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that additional valuation allowances on our deferred tax assets will not be required should our financial performance be negatively impacted in the future. Such valuation allowance could be material.
Restructuring Program Component of the Profit Recovery and Growth Plan
For information about the Restructuring Program Component of the Profit Recovery and Growth Plan, refer to Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 3 – Charges Associated with Restructuring and Other Activities herein and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 7 - Charges Associated with Restructuring and Other Activities in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026.
NET SALES
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ($ in millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| As Reported: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 3,715 | $ | 3,481 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $ Change from prior-year period | 234 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| % Change from prior-year period | 7 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP Financial Measure(1): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| % Change from prior-year period in constant currency adjusting for returns associated with restructuring and other activities | 6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)See “Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” beginning on page 47 for reconciliations between non-GAAP financial measures and the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measures.
Reported net sales increased for the three months ended September 30, 2026, driven by an increase in net sales in the fragrance and skin care product categories, and to a lesser extent, in the makeup product category.
By geographic region, reported net sales increased across all geographic regions for the three months ended September 30, 2026, led by Mainland China and Asia/Pacific.
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Reported net sales were impacted by approximately $20 million of favorable foreign currency translation for the three months ended September 30, 2026.
Reported net sales increased 7% for the three months ended September 30, 2026, driven by the increase from volume of 7% and the favorable impact from foreign currency translation of 1%. These increases were partially offset by a decrease from pricing of 1%, reflecting changes in mix partially offset by the favorable impact from strategic price actions.
Product Categories
Reported net sales for our product categories for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 were as follows:
Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ($ in millions) | 2026 | 2025 | $ Change | % Change | % Change in Constant Currency(1) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skin Care | $ | 1,651 | $ | 1,575 | $ | 76 | 5 | % | 4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Makeup | 1,048 | 1,030 | 18 | 2 | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fragrance | 861 | 721 | 140 | 19 | 20 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hair Care | 128 | 129 | (1) | (1) | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | 28 | 25 | 3 | 12 | 12 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 3,716 | 3,480 | 236 | 7 | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Returns associated with restructuring and other activities | (1) | 1 | (2) | (100+) | (100+) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 3,715 | $ | 3,481 | $ | 234 | 7 | % | 6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)See “Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” beginning on page 47 for reconciliations between non-GAAP financial measures and the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measures.
Skin Care
Reported skin care net sales increased $76 million, or 5%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily driven by higher net sales from La Mer and The Ordinary, combined, of approximately $97 million.
Net sales from La Mer increased, reflecting the benefit from new product innovation, including the launch of The Concentrate reformulation, as well as growth from The Treatment Lotion franchise. The increase in net sales from The Ordinary reflected growth from targeted expanded consumer reach as well as the benefit from key campaigns to drive sales growth.
Skin care net sales were impacted by approximately $18 million of favorable foreign currency translation for the three months ended September 30, 2026.
Reported skin care net sales increased 5% for the three months ended September 30, 2026, driven by an increase from volume of 3%, an increase from pricing of 1%, reflecting the favorable impact from strategic pricing actions partially offset by changes in mix, and the favorable impact from foreign currency translation of 1%.
Makeup
Reported makeup net sales increased $18 million, or 2%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, reflecting higher net sales from M·A·C and TOM FORD, combined, of approximately $59 million. Net sales from M·A·C increased, reflecting higher net sales in the lip subcategory, including the benefit from the launch of Lustreglass Sheer-Shine Lipstick and Lustreglass Stainglass Lip Tint, as well as the benefit from targeted expanded consumer reach. The increase in net sales from TOM FORD was primarily driven by higher net sales in the lip and face subcategories, reflecting the benefit from new product innovation.
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Partially offsetting the makeup net sales increase were lower net sales, primarily from Estée Lauder, Too Faced and Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, combined, of approximately $20 million. Estée Lauder net sales decreased, reflecting lower net sales in the face subcategory, including the impact from the timing of new product innovation, partially offset by incremental sales from the next-generation of Double Wear Stay-in-Place Longwear Matte Foundation that launched in the second half of fiscal 2026. The decrease in net sales from Too Faced reflected the impact of closures of certain specialty-multi retailer-operated shop-in-shop doors. Bobbi Brown Cosmetics net sales decreased, driven by lower net sales within the department store channel, which included the impact from the strategic exit from certain retailers.
Makeup net sales were impacted by approximately $4 million of favorable foreign currency translation for the three months ended September 30, 2026.
Reported makeup net sales increased 2% for the three months ended September 30, 2026, driven by an increase from volume of 5%, partially offset by a decrease from pricing of 3%, reflecting changes in mix partially offset by the favorable impact from strategic pricing actions.
Fragrance
Reported fragrance net sales increased $140 million, or 19%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily driven by higher net sales from Le Labo, TOM FORD, Jo Malone London and Estée Lauder, combined, of approximately $117 million. The increase in net sales from Le Labo was led by the Classic Collection and City Exclusives Collection, which reflected the benefit from new product innovation, targeted expanded consumer reach and the success of hero products. Net sales from TOM FORD increased, within both the Private Blend and Signature franchises, reflecting the benefit from new product innovation which created halo benefits on existing products. Net sales from Jo Malone London increased, reflecting the benefit from new product innovation and growth within hero franchises, supported by targeted expanded consumer reach. The increase in net sales from Estée Lauder was driven by higher net sales from the launch of Glimmer Eau de Parfum Spray.
Fragrance net sales were impacted by approximately $1 million of unfavorable foreign currency translation for the three months ended September 30, 2026.
Reported fragrance net sales increased 19% for the three months ended September 30, 2026, driven by an increase from volume of 20%, partially offset by a decrease from pricing of 1%, reflecting changes in mix partially offset by the favorable impact from strategic pricing actions.
Hair Care
Reported hair care net sales decreased $1 million, or 1%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, including the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation of 1%. Including the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation, the decrease in hair care net sales primarily reflected lower net sales from Aveda and higher net sales from The Ordinary.
The decrease in net sales from Aveda reflected lower shipments primarily due to brand-specific supply chain logistical challenges.
The increase in net sales from The Ordinary benefitted from the Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density, as well as targeted expanded consumer reach.
Hair care net sales were impacted by approximately $1 million of unfavorable foreign currency translation for the three months ended September 30, 2026.
Reported hair care net sales decreased 1% for the three months ended September 30, 2026, driven by a decrease from pricing of 7%, reflecting changes in mix partially offset by the favorable impact from strategic pricing actions, and the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation of 1%. These decreases were largely offset by an increase from volume of 7%.
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Geographic Regions
Reported net sales by geographic region for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 were as follows:
Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ($ in millions) | 2026 | 2025 | $ Change | % Change | % Change in Constant Currency(2) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Americas | $ | 1,227 | $ | 1,174 | $ | 53 | 5 | % | 4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
EUKEM | 923 | 901 | 22 | 2 | 4 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asia/Pacific(1) | 952 | 873 | 79 | 9 | 10 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mainland China | 614 | 532 | 82 | 15 | 9 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 3,716 | 3,480 | 236 | 7 | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Returns associated with restructuring and other activities | (1) | 1 | (2) | (100+) | (100+) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales | $ | 3,715 | $ | 3,481 | $ | 234 | 7 | % | 6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)The net sales from our travel retail business are included in the Asia/Pacific region.
(2)See “Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” beginning on page 47 for reconciliations between non-GAAP financial measures and the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measures.
Reported net sales increased for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily driven by higher net sales in our travel retail business and Mainland China, combined, of approximately $169 million.
The increase in net sales in our travel retail business was led by Asia travel retail, primarily driven by (i) net sales growth from the Beijing and Shanghai airports, reflecting an increase in replenishment orders amid continued stabilization following changes in duty-free retailers, including the related online businesses, that began in the fiscal 2026 second quarter and (ii) Hainan travel retail, driven by the improvement in online retail sales.
The increase in net sales in Mainland China for the three months ended September 30, 2026 reflected growth from existing products as well as new product innovation, benefiting from success during key shopping moments and key campaigns to drive sales growth.
Reported net sales in The Americas increased 5% for the three months ended September 30, 2026, driven by an increase from volume of 7%, partially offset by a decrease from pricing of 3%, reflecting changes in mix partially offset by the favorable impact from strategic pricing actions.
Reported net sales in EUKEM increased 2% for the three months ended September 30, 2026, driven by an increase from volume of 6%. This increase was partially offset by a decrease from pricing of 2%, reflecting changes in mix partially offset by the favorable impact from strategic pricing actions, and the unfavorable impact from foreign currency translation of 1%.
Reported net sales in Asia/Pacific increased 9% for the three months ended September 30, 2026, driven by an increase from volume of 9% and an increase from pricing of 1%, reflecting the favorable impact from strategic pricing actions partially offset by changes in mix. Partially offsetting these increases was the unfavorable impact from foreign currency translation of 1%.
Reported net sales in Mainland China increased 15% for the three months ended September 30, 2026, driven by the favorable impact from foreign currency translation of 7%, an increase from volume of 6% and an increase from pricing of 2%, reflecting changes in mix and the favorable impact from strategic pricing actions.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
GROSS MARGIN
Gross margin increased to 75.7% for the three months ended September 30, 2026, as compared with 73.4% in the prior-year period.
| Favorable (Unfavorable) Basis Points | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Three Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||
| September 30, 2026 | ||||||||||||||||||||
As Reported: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Mix of business | 155 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Obsolescence charges | (5) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Manufacturing costs and other | 55 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign exchange transactions | 35 | |||||||||||||||||||
Charges associated with restructuring and other activities | (10) | |||||||||||||||||||
As Reported Gross Margin Basis Point Variance | 230 | |||||||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP Financial Measure Adjustments | ||||||||||||||||||||
Charges associated with restructuring and other activities | 10 | |||||||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP Gross Margin Basis Point Variance | 240 | |||||||||||||||||||
The increase in gross margin for the three months ended September 30, 2026 reflected favorability across our mix of business, including the benefit from the increase in net sales, net strategic pricing, product mix, as well as net benefits enabled through the PRGP. Within manufacturing costs and other, net benefits enabled through the PRGP, related to the favorable impact of cost efficiencies within our global supply chain network, and the favorable impact from shifts within our manufacturing network, were partially offset by the impact from inflation on our costs.
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OPERATING EXPENSES
Operating expenses as a percentage of net sales were 64.7% for the three months ended September 30, 2026, as compared with 68.5% in the prior-year period.
| Favorable (Unfavorable) Basis Points | |||||||||||
| Three Months Ended | |||||||||||
| September 30, 2026 | |||||||||||
| As Reported: | |||||||||||
| Selling | 120 | ||||||||||
| Advertising | (140) | ||||||||||
| Promotional | 40 | ||||||||||
| Store operating costs | (10) | ||||||||||
Consumer-facing operating expenses(1) | 10 | ||||||||||
| General and administrative | 30 | ||||||||||
| Shipping | — | ||||||||||
| Marketing | 90 | ||||||||||
| Product development | 20 | ||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation | 60 | ||||||||||
| Foreign exchange transactions | 20 | ||||||||||
| Non-consumer-facing operating expenses | 220 | ||||||||||
| Charges associated with restructuring and other activities | 150 | ||||||||||
| As Reported Operating Expense Margin Basis Point Variance | 380 | ||||||||||
| Non-GAAP Financial Measure Adjustments: | |||||||||||
| Impact of restructuring and other activities | 140 | ||||||||||
| Non-GAAP Operating Expense Margin Basis Point Variance | 240 | ||||||||||
(1)Consumer-facing operating expenses in this table and within the operating expense margin discussion below do not include the impact of co-operative advertising expenses that are recorded as a reduction of revenue, however, our references to consumer-facing investments throughout the remainder of Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations include the consumer-facing operating expenses noted above as well as the impact of co-operative advertising expenses that are recorded as a reduction of revenue.
The favorability in our operating expense margin for the three months ended September 30, 2026 primarily reflected the impact of the increase in net sales which largely offset the impact from the overall increase in investments in consumer-facing areas of the business to drive sales, primarily in advertising expenses, including through new product innovation, key campaigns, and targeted expanded consumer reach. The favorability in the impact from non-consumer-facing expenses was also largely driven by the impact of the increase in net sales, and also reflected overall lower expenses collectively, driven by a reduction in employee-related costs enabled through the PRGP.
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OPERATING RESULTS
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ($ in millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| As Reported: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 408 | $ | 169 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| $ Change from prior-year period | 239 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| % Change from prior-year period | 100+% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating margin | 11.0 | % | 4.9 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP Financial Measure(1): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| % Change in operating income from the prior-year period adjusting for the impact of charges associated with restructuring and other activities | 76 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)See “Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” beginning on page 47 for reconciliations between non-GAAP financial measures and the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measures.
The increase in reported operating margin for the three months ended September 30, 2026 was primarily driven by the increase in net sales and the increase in gross margin, as discussed above.
Product Categories
Reported operating income (loss) for our product categories for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 were as follows:
Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ($ in millions) | 2026 | 2025 | $ Change | % Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skin Care | $ | 262 | $ | 187 | $ | 75 | 40 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Makeup | 3 | (15) | 18 | 100+ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fragrance | 166 | 86 | 80 | 93 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hair Care | 5 | (12) | 17 | 100+ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | 13 | 9 | 4 | 44 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 449 | 255 | 194 | 76 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Charges associated with restructuring and other activities | (41) | (86) | 45 | 52 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 408 | $ | 169 | $ | 239 | 100+% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Skin Care
Reported skin care operating income increased $75 million, or 40%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily driven by an increase in net sales, as well as lower non-consumer-facing expenses, including a reduction in employee-related costs, partially offset by an increase in consumer-facing investments to drive sales growth, primarily in advertising expenses, including to support new product innovation, key campaigns and targeted expanded consumer reach.
Makeup
Reported makeup operating results increased $18 million, or over 100%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily driven by an increase in net sales, as well as lower non-consumer-facing expenses, including a reduction in employee-related costs, partially offset by an increase in consumer-facing investments to drive sales growth, including to support new product innovation, key campaigns and targeted expanded consumer reach. The overall increase in consumer-facing expenses was partially offset by the strategic reduction in selling expenses.
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Fragrance
Reported fragrance operating income increased $80 million, or 93%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily driven by higher net sales, partially offset by an increase in consumer-facing investments to drive sales growth, primarily in advertising expenses, including to support new product innovation, key campaigns and targeted expanded consumer reach.
Hair Care
Reported hair care operating results increased $17 million, or over 100%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily driven by lower non-consumer-facing expenses, including a reduction in employee-related costs, and lower cost of sales.
Geographic Regions
Reported operating income for our geographic regions for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025 were as follows:
Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
($ in millions) | 2026 | 2025 | $ Change | % Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Americas | $ | 114 | $ | 87 | $ | 27 | 31 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
EUKEM | 44 | 6 | 38 | 100+ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Asia/Pacific(1) | 259 | 150 | 109 | 73 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mainland China | 32 | 12 | 20 | 100+ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 449 | 255 | 194 | 76 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Charges associated with restructuring and other activities | (41) | (86) | 45 | 52 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 408 | $ | 169 | $ | 239 | 100+% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)The operating results from our travel retail business are included in the Asia/Pacific region.
Reported operating income in The Americas increased $27 million, or 31%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily driven by higher net sales and lower cost of sales, partially offset by an increase in consumer-facing investments to drive sales growth, primarily in advertising expenses, including to support new product innovation, key campaigns and targeted expanded consumer reach.
Reported operating income in EUKEM increased $38 million, or over 100%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily driven by higher net sales, as well as a decrease in non-consumer-facing expenses, including a reduction in employee-related costs, partially offset by an increase in consumer-facing investments to drive sales growth, including to support new product innovation, key campaigns and targeted expanded consumer reach. The increase in overall consumer-facing investments was partially offset by the strategic reduction in selling expenses.
Reported operating income in Asia/Pacific increased $109 million, or 73%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily driven by higher net sales and, to a lesser extent, lower cost of sales.
Reported operating income in Mainland China increased $20 million, or over 100%, for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily driven by higher net sales, partially offset by an increase in consumer-facing investments to drive sales growth, including to support new product innovation, key shopping moments and key campaigns.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
INTEREST AND INVESTMENT INCOME
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | $ | 83 | $ | 86 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest income and investment income, net | $ | 25 | $ | 30 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense decreased for the three months ended September 30, 2026, primarily reflecting lower average interest rates compared to the prior-year period. Interest income and investment income, net decreased, primarily driven by the unfavorable year-over-year impact related to our cost method minority investments, reflecting an impairment in the current-year period as compared to investment gains in the prior-year period.
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES
The provision or benefit for income taxes represents U.S. federal, foreign, state and local income taxes. The effective rate differs from the federal statutory rate primarily due to the effect of state and local income taxes, the tax impact of stock-based compensation, the taxation of foreign income and income tax reserve adjustments, which represent changes in our net liability for unrecognized tax benefits including tax settlements and lapses of the applicable statutes of limitations, as well as changes to valuation allowances based on our assessment of the realizability of deferred tax assets. Our effective tax rate will change from quarter-to-quarter based on recurring and non-recurring factors including the geographical mix of earnings, enacted tax legislation, state and local income taxes, tax reserve adjustments, the tax impact of stock-based compensation, changes to valuation allowances, the interaction of various global tax strategies and the impact from certain acquisitions. In addition, changes in judgment from the evaluation of new information resulting in the recognition, derecognition or remeasurement of a tax position taken in a prior annual period are recognized separately in the quarter of change.
| Three Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Effective rate for income taxes | 32.50 | % | 56.90 | % | |||||||||||||||||||
| Basis-point change from the prior-year period | (2,440) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
The effective rate for income taxes was 32.5% and 56.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2026 and 2025, respectively, a 2,440 basis point decrease period over period. The extent of the period-over-period change was broadly impacted by the lower earnings before income taxes for the three months ended September 30, 2025. The decrease in the effective tax rate was primarily attributable to a more favorable estimated full year geographical mix of earnings partially offset by the estimated increase in unrecognized tax benefits primarily related to transfer pricing matters impacting multiple tax jurisdictions.
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
NET EARNINGS
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ($ in millions, except per share data) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| As Reported: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net earnings | $ | 233 | $ | 47 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| $ Change from prior-year period | 186 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| % Change from prior-year period | 100+% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted net earnings per common share | $ | .64 | $ | .13 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| % Change from prior-year period | 100+% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-GAAP Financial Measure(1): | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| % Change in diluted net earnings (loss) per common share from the prior-year period adjusting for the impact of charges associated with restructuring and other activities | 100+% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)See “Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for reconciliations between non-GAAP financial measures and the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measures.
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RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
We use certain non-GAAP financial measures, among other financial measures, to evaluate our operating performance, which represent the manner in which we conduct and view our business. Management believes that excluding certain items that are not comparable from period to period, or do not reflect the Company’s underlying ongoing business, provides transparency for such items and helps investors and others compare and analyze our operating performance from period to period. In the future, we expect to incur charges or adjustments similar in nature to those presented below; however, the impact to the Company’s results in a given period may be highly variable and difficult to predict. Our non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by, or determined in a manner consistent with, other companies. While we consider the non-GAAP measures useful in analyzing our results, they are not intended to replace, or act as a substitute for, any presentation included in the consolidated financial statements prepared in conformity with U.S. GAAP. The following tables present Net sales, Operating income and Diluted net earnings per common share adjusted to exclude the impact of charges associated with restructuring and other activities; and the effects of foreign currency translation.
The following table provides reconciliations between these non-GAAP financial measures and the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measures.
| ($ in millions, except per share data) | Three Months Ended September 30, | Variance | % Change | % Change in constant currency | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2026 | 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales, as reported | $ | 3,715 | $ | 3,481 | $ | 234 | 7 | % | 6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Returns associated with restructuring and other activities | 1 | (1) | 2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net sales, as adjusted | $ | 3,716 | $ | 3,480 | $ | 236 | 7 | % | 6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income, as reported | $ | 408 | $ | 169 | $ | 239 | 100+% | 100+% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Charges associated with restructuring and other activities | 41 | 86 | (45) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income, as adjusted | $ | 449 | $ | 255 | $ | 194 | 76 | % | 80 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted net earnings per common share, as reported | $ | .64 | $ | .13 | $ | .51 | 100+% | 100+% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Charges associated with restructuring and other activities | .08 | .19 | (.11) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted net earnings per common share, as adjusted | $ | .72 | $ | .32 | $ | .40 | 100+% | 100+% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
As diluted net earnings per common share, as adjusted, is used as a measure of the Company’s performance, we consider the impact of current and deferred income taxes when calculating the per-share impact of each of the reconciling items.
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The following table reconciles the change in net sales by product category and geographic region, as reported, to the change in net sales excluding the effects of foreign currency translation:
| As Reported | Impact of foreign currency translation | Variance, in constant currency | % Change, as reported | % Change, in constant currency | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ($ in millions) | 2026 | 2025 | Variance | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| By Product Category: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Skin Care | $ | 1,651 | $ | 1,575 | $ | 76 | $ | (18) | $ | 58 | 5 | % | 4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Makeup | 1,048 | 1,030 | 18 | (4) | 14 | 2 | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fragrance | 861 | 721 | 140 | 1 | 141 | 19 | 20 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hair Care | 128 | 129 | (1) | 1 | — | (1) | — | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other | 28 | 25 | 3 | — | 3 | 12 | 12 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 3,716 | 3,480 | 236 | (20) | 216 | 7 | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Returns associated with restructuring and other activities | (1) | 1 | (2) | — | (2) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 3,715 | $ | 3,481 | $ | 234 | $ | (20) | $ | 214 | 7 | % | 6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
By Geographic Region: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Americas | $ | 1,227 | $ | 1,174 | $ | 53 | $ | (3) | $ | 50 | 5 | % | 4 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
EUKEM | 923 | 901 | 22 | 10 | 32 | 2 | 4 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Asia/Pacific | 952 | 873 | 79 | 9 | 88 | 9 | 10 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mainland China | 614 | 532 | 82 | (36) | 46 | 15 | 9 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 3,716 | 3,480 | 236 | (20) | 216 | 7 | 6 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Returns associated with restructuring and other activities | (1) | 1 | (2) | — | (2) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 3,715 | $ | 3,481 | $ | 234 | $ | (20) | $ | 214 | 7 | % | 6 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC.
FINANCIAL CONDITION
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Overview
Our principal sources of funds historically have been cash flows from operations, borrowings pursuant to our commercial paper program, borrowings from the issuance of long-term debt and committed and uncommitted credit lines provided by banks and other lenders in the United States and abroad. At September 30, 2026, we had cash and cash equivalents of $3,198 million compared with $3,498 million at June 30, 2026. Our cash and cash equivalents are maintained at a number of financial institutions. To mitigate the risk of uninsured balances, we select financial institutions based on their credit ratings and financial strength, and we perform ongoing evaluations of these institutions to limit our concentration risk exposure.
Based on past performance and current expectations, we believe that cash on hand, cash generated from operations, available credit lines and access to credit markets will be adequate to support seasonal working capital needs, currently planned business operations, information technology enhancements, capital expenditures, acquisitions, dividends, stock repurchases, restructuring initiatives, commitments and other contractual obligations on both a near-term and long-term basis.
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act resulted in the Transition Tax on unrepatriated earnings of our foreign subsidiaries and changed the tax law in ways that present opportunities to repatriate cash without additional U.S. federal income tax. We continue to analyze the permanent reinvestment assertion on our remaining applicable foreign earnings. We do not believe that continuing to reinvest these remaining applicable foreign earnings impairs our ability to meet our domestic debt or working capital obligations. If these reinvested earnings were repatriated into the United States as dividends, we would be subject to state income taxes and applicable foreign taxes in certain jurisdictions.
Tariffs negatively impacted our operating results in the fiscal 2027 first quarter and we are continuing to monitor and assess the potential effects of changing tariff conditions globally.
On October 5, 2026, we completed the acquisition of the remaining equity interest in Mountain Valley Springs India Private Limited, the owner of the Forest Essentials brand, an India-based beauty brand grounded in the science of modern Luxurious Ayurveda, and paid $160 million for the purchase of the remaining 51% equity interest and $37 million related to a one-time inducement payment which is excluded from the consideration transferred, using cash on hand. For further information related to the acquisition, refer to Note 14 - Subsequent Events.
Credit Ratings
Changes in our credit ratings will likely result in changes in our borrowing costs. Our credit ratings also impact the cost of our revolving credit facilities. Downgrades in our credit ratings may reduce our ability to issue commercial paper and/or long-term debt and would likely increase the relative costs of borrowing. A credit rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold securities, is subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating organization, and should be evaluated independently of any other rating. As of October 26, 2026, our long-term debt is rated A- with a stable outlook by Standard & Poor’s and A3 with a negative outlook by Moody’s.
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Debt
At September 30, 2026, our outstanding borrowings were as follows:
| ($ in millions) | Long-term Debt | Current Debt | Total Debt | |||||||||||||||||
5.150% Senior Notes, due May 15, 2053 ("2053 Senior Notes") (1), (15) | $ | 591 | $ | — | $ | 591 | ||||||||||||||
3.125% Senior Notes, due December 1, 2049 (“2049 Senior Notes”) (2), (15) | 637 | — | 637 | |||||||||||||||||
4.150% Senior Notes, due March 15, 2047 (“2047 Senior Notes”) (3), (15) | 495 | — | 495 | |||||||||||||||||
4.375% Senior Notes, due June 15, 2045 (“2045 Senior Notes”) (4), (15) | 454 | — | 454 | |||||||||||||||||
3.700% Senior Notes, due August 15, 2042 (“2042 Senior Notes”) (5), (15) | 248 | — | 248 | |||||||||||||||||
6.000% Senior Notes, due May 15, 2037 (“2037 Senior Notes”) (6), (15) | 296 | — | 296 | |||||||||||||||||
5.000% Senior Notes, due February 14, 2034 ("2034 Senior Notes) (7), (15) | 593 | — | 593 | |||||||||||||||||
5.75% Senior Notes, due October 15, 2033 (“October 2033 Senior Notes”) (8), (15) | 198 | — | 198 | |||||||||||||||||
4.650% Senior Notes, due May 15, 2033 ("May 2033 Senior Notes") (9), (15) | 696 | — | 696 | |||||||||||||||||
1.950% Senior Notes, due March 15, 2031 ("2031 Senior Notes") (10), (15) | 556 | — | 556 | |||||||||||||||||
2.600% Senior Notes, due April 15, 2030 ("2030 Senior Notes") (11), (15) | 615 | — | 615 | |||||||||||||||||
2.375% Senior Notes, due December 1, 2029 (“2029 Senior Notes”) (12), (15) | 646 | — | 646 | |||||||||||||||||
4.375% Senior Notes, due May 15, 2028 ("2028 Senior Notes") (13), (15) | 698 | — | 698 | |||||||||||||||||
3.150% Senior Notes, due March 15, 2027 (“2027 Senior Notes”) (14), (15) | — | 500 | 500 | |||||||||||||||||
| Other long-term borrowings | 25 | 3 | 28 | |||||||||||||||||
| $ | 6,748 | $ | 503 | $ | 7,251 | |||||||||||||||
(1)Consists of $600 million principal, unamortized debt discount of $3 million and debt issuance costs of $6 million.
(2)Consists of $650 million principal, unamortized debt discount of $7 million and debt issuance costs of $6 million.
(3)Consists of $500 million principal, unamortized debt discount of $1 million and debt issuance costs of $4 million.
(4)Consists of $450 million principal, net unamortized debt premium of $7 million and debt issuance costs of $3 million.
(5)Consists of $250 million principal, unamortized debt discount of $1 million and debt issuance costs of $1 million.
(6)Consists of $300 million principal, unamortized debt discount of $2 million and debt issuance costs of $2 million.
(7)Consists of $650 million principal, unamortized debt discount of $1 million, debt issuance costs of $4 million and a $52 million loss to reflect the fair value of interest rate swaps.
(8)Consists of $200 million principal, unamortized debt discount of $1 million and debt issuance costs of $1 million.
(9)Consists of $700 million principal, unamortized debt discount of $1 million and debt issuance costs of $3 million.
(10)Consists of $600 million principal, unamortized debt discount of $2 million, debt issuance costs of $2 million and a $40 million loss to reflect the fair value of interest rate swaps.
(11)Consists of $700 million principal, debt issuance costs of $2 million and a $83 million loss to reflect the fair value of interest rate swaps.
(12)Consists of $650 million principal, unamortized debt discount of $2 million and debt issuance costs of $2 million.
(13)Consists of $700 million principal and debt issuance costs of $2 million.
(14)Consists of $500 million principal.
(15)The Senior Notes contain certain customary covenants, including limitations on indebtedness secured by liens.
Total debt as a percent of total capitalization was 64% and 66% at September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026, respectively.
Cash Flows
| Three Months Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||
| (In millions) | 2026 | 2025 | ||||||||||||
Net cash flows used for operating activities | $ | (166) | $ | (340) | ||||||||||
| Net cash flows used for investing activities | $ | (61) | $ | (116) | ||||||||||
Net cash flows used for financing activities | $ | (80) | $ | (239) | ||||||||||
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The change in net cash flows used for operating activities was primarily driven by higher net earnings, excluding non-cash items, and to a lesser extent, the favorable change in operating assets and liabilities variances.
The change in net cash flows used for investing activities was primarily driven by a favorable year-over-year impact from the settlement of net investment hedges and lower capital expenditures compared to the prior-year period.
The change in net cash flows used for financing activities primarily reflected the payment of deferred consideration in the fiscal 2026 first quarter associated with the fiscal 2023 acquisition of TOM FORD.
Dividends
For a summary of quarterly cash dividends declared per share on our Class A and Class B Common Stock during the three months ended September 30, 2026, see Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 11 – Equity.
Pension and Post-retirement Plan Funding
There have been no significant changes to our pension and post-retirement funding as discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026.
Commitments, Contractual Obligations and Contingencies
There have been no significant changes to our commitments and contractual obligations as discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026. For a discussion of contingencies, see Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 8 – Commitments and Contingencies.
Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities
For a discussion of our derivative financial instruments and hedging activities, see Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 4 – Derivative Financial Instruments.
Foreign Exchange Risk Management
For a discussion of foreign exchange risk management, see Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 4 – Derivative Financial Instruments (Fair Value Hedges, Cash Flow Hedges and Net Investment Hedges).
Credit Risk
For a discussion of credit risk, see Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 4 – Derivative Financial Instruments (Credit Risk).
Market Risk
We address certain financial exposures through a controlled program of market risk management that includes the use of foreign currency forward contracts to reduce the effects of fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates and to mitigate the change in fair value of specific assets and liabilities on the balance sheet, anticipated transactions and the net investment in certain foreign operations. To perform a sensitivity analysis of our foreign currency forward contracts, we assess the change in fair values from the impact of hypothetical changes in foreign currency exchange rates. A hypothetical 10% weakening of the U.S. dollar against the foreign exchange rates for the currencies in our portfolio would have resulted in a net decrease in the fair value of our portfolio of approximately $159 million and $164 million as of September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026, respectively. This potential change does not consider our underlying foreign currency exposures.
We also enter into cross-currency swap contracts to hedge the impact of foreign currency changes on certain intercompany foreign currency denominated debt and to hedge a portion of the net investment in certain foreign operations. A hypothetical 10% weakening of the U.S. dollar against the foreign exchange rates for the currencies in our cross-currency swap contracts would have resulted in a net decrease in the fair value of our cross-currency swap contracts of approximately $76 million as of September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026.
In addition, we enter into interest rate derivatives to manage the effects of interest rate movements on our funded indebtedness, including future debt issuances. Based on a hypothetical 100 basis point increase in interest rates, the estimated fair value of our interest rate derivatives would decrease by approximately $67 million and $72 million as of September 30, 2026 and June 30, 2026, respectively.
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Our sensitivity analysis represents an estimate of reasonably possible net losses that would be recognized on our portfolio of derivative financial instruments assuming hypothetical movements in future market rates and is not necessarily indicative of actual results, which may or may not occur. It does not represent the maximum possible loss or any expected loss that may occur, since actual future gains and losses will differ from those estimated, based upon actual fluctuations in market rates, operating exposures, and the timing thereof, and changes in our portfolio of derivative financial instruments during the year. We believe, however, that any such loss incurred would be offset by the effects of market rate movements on the respective underlying transactions for which the derivative financial instrument was intended.
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
We do not maintain any off-balance sheet arrangements, transactions, obligations or other relationships with unconsolidated entities that would be expected to have a material current or future effect upon our financial condition or results of operations.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
As disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026, the discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in conformity with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses reported in those financial statements. These estimates and assumptions can be subjective and complex, and consequently, actual results could differ from those estimates. Refer to the Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates section within Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026. Since June 30, 2026, there have been no significant changes to the assumptions and estimates related to our critical accounting policies.
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
For a discussion regarding the impact of accounting standards that were recently issued but not yet effective, on our consolidated financial statements, see Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.
CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
We and our representatives from time to time make written or oral forward-looking statements, including in this and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, in our press releases and in our reports to stockholders, which may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may address our expectations regarding sales, earnings or other future financial performance and liquidity, other performance measures, product introductions, entry into new geographic regions, information technology initiatives, new methods of sale, our long-term strategy, restructuring and other charges and resulting cost savings, and future operations or operating results. These statements may contain words like “expect,” “will,” “will likely result,” “would,” “believe,” “estimate,” “planned,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” “projected,” “forecast,” and “forecasted” or similar expressions. Although we believe that our expectations are based on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of our knowledge of our business and operations, actual results may differ materially from our expectations. Factors that could cause actual results to differ from expectations include, without limitation:
(1)increased competitive activity from companies in the skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care businesses;
(2)our ability to develop, produce and market new products on which future operating results may depend and to successfully address challenges in our business;
(3)consolidations, restructurings, bankruptcies and reorganizations in the retail industry causing a decrease in the number of stores that sell our products, an increase in the ownership concentration within the retail industry, ownership of retailers by our competitors or ownership of competitors by our customers that are retailers and our inability to collect receivables;
(4)destocking and tighter working capital management by retailers;
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(5)the success, or changes in timing or scope, of new product innovation, including launches, and the success, or changes in timing or scope, of advertising, sampling and merchandising programs;
(6)shifts in the preferences of consumers as to how they perceive value and where and how they shop;
(7)social, political and economic risks to our foreign or domestic manufacturing, distribution and retail operations, including changes in foreign investment and trade policies and regulations of the host countries and of the United States;
(8)changes in the laws, regulations and policies (including the interpretations and enforcement thereof) that affect, or will affect, our business, including those relating to our products or distribution networks, changes in accounting standards, tax laws and regulations, environmental or climate change laws, regulations or accords, trade rules and customs regulations, and the outcome and expense of legal or regulatory proceedings, and any action we may take as a result;
(9)foreign currency fluctuations affecting our results of operations and the value of our foreign assets, the relative prices at which we and our foreign competitors sell products in the same markets and our operating and manufacturing costs outside of the United States;
(10)changes in global or local conditions, including those due to volatility in the global credit and equity markets, government economic policies, natural or man-made disasters, real or perceived epidemics, supply chain challenges, inflation, or increased energy costs, that could affect consumer purchasing, the willingness or ability of consumers to travel and/or purchase our products while traveling, the financial strength of our customers, suppliers or other contract counterparties, our operations, the cost and availability of capital which we may need for new equipment, facilities or acquisitions, the returns that we are able to generate on our pension assets and the resulting impact on funding obligations, the cost and availability of raw materials and the assumptions underlying our critical accounting estimates;
(11)shipment delays, commodity pricing, depletion of inventory and increased production costs resulting from disruptions of operations at any of the facilities that manufacture our products or at our distribution or inventory centers, including disruptions that may be caused by the implementation of information technology initiatives, or by restructurings;
(12)real estate rates and availability, which may affect our ability to increase or maintain the number of retail locations at which we sell our products and the costs associated with our other facilities;
(13)changes in product mix to products which are less profitable;
(14)our ability to acquire, develop or implement new information technology, including operational technology and websites, on a timely basis and within our cost estimates; to maintain continuous operations of our new and existing information technology; and to secure the data and other information that may be stored in such technologies or other systems or media;
(15)our ability to capitalize on opportunities for improved efficiency, such as publicly-announced strategies and restructuring and cost-savings initiatives, and to integrate acquired businesses and realize value therefrom;
(16)consequences attributable to local or international conflicts around the world, as well as from any terrorist action, retaliation and the threat of further action or retaliation;
(17)the timing and impact of acquisitions, investments and divestitures; and
(18)additional factors as described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026.
We assume no responsibility to update forward-looking statements made herein or otherwise.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
The information required by this item is set forth in Item 2 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q under the caption Liquidity and Capital Resources - Market Risk and is incorporated herein by reference.
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Item 4. Controls and Procedures.
Our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission and to ensure that information required to be disclosed is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive and financial officers, to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure. The Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, with assistance from other members of management, have reviewed the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2026 and, based on their evaluation, have concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of such date.
As part of our review of internal control over financial reporting, we make changes to systems and processes to improve such controls and increase efficiencies, while ensuring that we maintain an effective internal control environment. There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) that occurred during the first quarter of fiscal 2027 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings.
For a discussion of legal proceedings, see Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 8 – Commitments and Contingencies.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
Share Repurchase Program
We are authorized by the Board of Directors to repurchase shares of our Class A Common Stock in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, depending on market conditions and other factors. The following table provides information relating to our repurchase of Class A Common Stock during the referenced periods:
| Period | Total Number of Shares Purchased(1) | Average Price Paid Per Share | Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Program | Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Program(2) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| July 2026 | — | $ | — | — | 25,073,242 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| August 2026 | 6,591 | 106.06 | — | 25,073,242 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| September 2026 | — | — | — | 25,073,242 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 6,591 | 106.06 | — | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1)Reflects shares that were repurchased by the Company to satisfy tax withholding obligations upon the payout of certain stock-based compensation arrangements.
(2)The Board of Directors has authorized the current repurchase program for up to 256.0 million shares. The total amount was last increased by the Board on October 31, 2018. Our repurchase program does not have an expiration date.
Beginning in December 2022, we suspended the repurchase of shares of our Class A Common Stock under our publicly announced program. We may resume repurchases in the future.
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Item 5. Other Information.
Trading Arrangements
During the fiscal 2027 first quarter, none of the Company’s directors or officers (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) under the Exchange Act) adopted terminated
Disclosure Required Pursuant to Section 13(r) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
During the fiscal 2027 first quarter, the Company made payments of eighty-seven U.S. dollars to maintain its intellectual property rights in Iran, as part of its intellectual property protection efforts, under a specific license granted by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC). The Company does not generate any revenues or profits from this activity, and plans to continue these activities, as authorized under the specific license. These trademarks are registered with the Intellectual Property Center of the Islamic Republic of Iran (IPC) through intellectual property counsel and service providers located in the United Arab Emirates and Iran. The payments were made to IPC at its account at the Central Bank of Iran, which was designated by OFAC as sanctioned under its counterterrorism authority pursuant to Executive Order 13224 on September 20, 2019.
Item 6. Exhibits.
| Exhibit Number | Description | |||||||
| 10.1 | The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. Amended and Restated Non-Employee Director Share Incentive Plan (as of November 17, 2026).† | |||||||
| 10.2 | Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Annual Stock Units under The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. Amended and Restated Non-Employee Director Share Incentive Plan (including Form of Notice of Grant).† | |||||||
| 10.3 | Summary of Compensation for Non-Employee Directors of the Company.† | |||||||
| 31.1 | Certification pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (CEO). | |||||||
| 31.2 | Certification pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (CFO). | |||||||
| 32.1 | Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (CEO). (furnished) | |||||||
| 32.2 | Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (CFO). (furnished) | |||||||
| 101.1 | The following materials from The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2026 are formatted in iXBRL (Inline eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Statements of Earnings, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iii) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (v) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements | |||||||
| 104 | The cover page from The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2026 is formatted in iXBRL | |||||||
____________________
† Exhibit is a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
| THE ESTÉE LAUDER COMPANIES INC. | ||||||||
| By: | /s/ AKHIL SHRIVASTAVA | |||||||
| Date: November 2, 2026 | Akhil Shrivastava | |||||||
| Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | ||||||||
| (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | ||||||||
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