So, before you buy a girl a luxury handbag, maybe check this..

So, before you buy a girl a luxury handbag, maybe check this out. Notes included! ;)

https://youtu.be/PxXmlQpGjRM?si=S_827844Keo3LAFI


Key Takeaway Notes:

- Tapestry’s Acquisition Attempt: In August 2023, Tapestry (Coach and Kate Spade’s parent) announced an $8.5 billion acquisition of Capri Holdings (Michael Kors’ parent), aiming to create a luxury handbag giant.

- FTC Blocks Merger: The FTC blocked the merger in October 2024 over antitrust concerns, arguing it would reduce competition in the accessible luxury handbag market. Capri’s share price dropped sharply following the ruling.

- Economic Concerns for Capri: Capri's financials had been declining, with revenue dropping 8% over the past fiscal year and Michael Kors struggling due to oversaturation and heavy discounting, which damaged its luxury image.

- Accessible Luxury Market: Accessible luxury brands (e.g., Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors) occupy a middle market between mass-market and high-end luxury, targeting consumers who want quality but can't afford top-tier brands like Chanel or Louis Vuitton.

- Internal Memos as Evidence: Tapestry and Capri's internal communications showed they aimed to limit price competition by reducing discounting across brands, which the FTC viewed as anti-competitive.

- Investor Expectations Misaligned: Investors initially expected the merger would proceed, especially given recent court defeats for the FTC. Capri’s stock surged briefly but plunged after the judge’s ruling.

- Tapestry’s Gain: Tapestry may have benefited as Capri’s declining performance would have made the acquisition costly; blocking the deal avoided an overpriced purchase.

- Luxury Market Competition: Luxury handbag brands are intensely competitive, with distinctions in price and quality between mass-market, accessible luxury, and true luxury brands. European brands like Chanel dominate true luxury.

- Michael Kors’ Decline: Overexpansion, frequent discounts, and logo-heavy designs contributed to a loss of prestige for Michael Kors, making the brand appear less exclusive.

- Future for Capri: With the merger blocked, Capri must navigate challenges independently, facing financial instability and a diluted brand reputation for Michael Kors.