Mattel Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) has appointed Professor Noreena Hertz to its Board of Directors, effective March 29, 2023. Hertz, a renowned economist and author, will serve on the Governance and Social Responsibility Committee. CEO Ynon Kreiz emphasized Hertz's expertise in ESG and her potential contributions to enhancing Mattel's IP-driven toy business and expanding its entertainment offering. With over 25 years of experience in advising diverse sectors, Hertz's strategic insights are expected to guide Mattel towards a more inclusive and sustainable future. Hertz is also a board member for Warner Music Group and Workhuman.

Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) announced plans to launch a new publishing imprint in 2024, expanding its children's and family entertainment offerings. This initiative aims to leverage Mattel's popular franchises, including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, and Fisher-Price®, to produce print books, eBooks, audiobooks, and digital content compatible with their interactive platform, Caribu. The imprint will complement existing licensing programs and aims to enhance fan engagement with Mattel's intellectual properties. The company has seen success with its American Girl publishing and intends to replicate this within its broader catalog.

Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) announced its Chief Financial Officer, Anthony DiSilvestro, will speak at the UBS Global Consumer and Retail Conference on March 16, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time. The event will be available via webcast on Mattel's Investor Relations website. Participants are encouraged to log in at least 15 minutes prior to the start for registration and necessary software downloads. The archive of the webcast will be accessible shortly after the live event. Mattel is a leading global toy company known for its strong portfolio of brands including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, and Fisher-Price®.

American Girl, a part of Mattel's portfolio, introduces its first-ever set of twin characters, Isabel and Nicki Hoffman, from the 1990s. Set in Seattle in 1999, their stories capture the essence of the tech boom, music, and fashion trends of the era. Isabel is bubbly and extroverted, while Nicki is thoughtful and introverted. Accompanying them are themed dolls, accessories, and a product collection reflecting 90s nostalgia. The launch includes a full-length novel and collaboration with the nonprofit Girls Who Code. Their product line is available from February 22, 2023, in various retail locations and online.

Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) will host a Virtual Investor Presentation on March 8, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. EST, to provide a strategic business update and outline its plans for the year. The event will be streamed via Mattel's Investor Relations website, with an archive available post-presentation. As a leading global toy company, Mattel boasts a strong portfolio of iconic brands such as Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, and Fisher-Price®, engaging consumers through various products and family entertainment franchises. The company operates in 35 locations and provides its offerings in over 150 countries, supporting the development of children through play.

Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) has announced the relaunch of the iconic Barney brand, which will include new TV and film content, toys, music, and apparel. The revitalization aims to introduce Barney to a new generation while tapping into the nostalgia of previous fans. A new animated series for preschoolers is set to debut globally in 2024, co-produced with Nelvana. This move reflects Mattel's strategy to leverage its extensive intellectual property portfolio, having successfully revived properties like Monster High and Masters of the Universe recently. The company aims to inspire children with Barney's timeless message of love and kindness.

Mattel reported a challenging fourth quarter and full year 2022, with net sales of $1,402 million, down 22% from the previous year. Gross margin slipped to 43.0%, a 630 basis point decrease. Operating income fell to $79 million, a drop of $178 million. For the full year, net sales remained flat at $5,435 million, with adjusted EPS of $1.25, down from $1.30. Despite these challenges, Mattel announced a 2023 guidance with expected net sales of $5,435 million, an adjusted gross margin of approximately 47%, and plans to resume share repurchases with $200 million available. CFO Anthony DiSilvestro noted market share gains despite headwinds.

Mattel (NASDAQ: MAT) has announced the pre-order availability of Hot Wheels: Rift Rally, a new mixed-reality racing game set to release on March 14, 2023. The game utilizes Velan Studios' patented RC mixed reality technology, allowing players to blend physical play with digital racing experiences. The Chameleon RC car features over 140 variations of Hot Wheels vehicles such as Twin Mill™ and Bone Shaker™. Pre-order prices start at $129.99 for the Standard Edition and $149.99 for the Collector’s Edition, which includes exclusive items. The game aims to create a unique racing experience for fans, focusing on creative play.