Nike's China Challenges Remain in Focus as BNP Paribas Maintains Bearish Outlook

NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) is included among the 13 Best Income Stocks with Highest Upside Potential.

On February 27, BNP Paribas reiterated an Underperform rating on NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE). It set a $35 price target on the shares. The firm said that Pou Sheng, one of China’s two major sporting goods retailers, issued a profit warning overnight. The firm noted that it had already identified China as a concern three years ago when it downgraded Nike. It said those concerns continue to play out. BNP also said investors are questioning why Nike plans to report its Q3 results on April 2, instead of the usual third Thursday of March. The firm believes this timing could signal that Nike is preparing to announce a major restructuring program. BNP expects Adidas (ADDYY), which is scheduled to report full-year results next week, to continue showing strong trends in China. This contrast suggests that Nike may be facing company-specific challenges in the region.

On February 13, Nike also announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.41 per share. The dividend applies to both Class A and Class B common stock. It will be paid on April 1, 2026, to shareholders of record as of March 2, 2026.

NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) designs, markets, and distributes athletic footwear, apparel, equipment, accessories, and related services. Its products are used across a wide range of sports and fitness activities.

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