Scanning the FTSE 100 for potential shopping for alternatives, I used to be drawn to Burberry (LSE: BRBY) shares.

It’s been simply one of many worst performers on the UK’s premier index within the present 12 months.

Let’s dig into what’s occurred, and see if there’s sufficient meat on the bones for a possible restoration.

Volatility hitting onerous

Burberry shares are down a mammoth 66% over a 12-month interval from 2,180p right now final 12 months, to present ranges of 737p. In 2024 alone, they’re down 47% from 1,416p on the flip of the 12 months, to present ranges.

It’s not onerous to establish the latest struggles of one of the recognisable vogue manufacturers on the planet. Financial volatility throughout the globe has damage many sectors and corporations, and luxurious vogue and Burberry have been impacted.

Rising inflation, a sluggish down in progress in key markets, resembling China, and a lower in spending in flip, has damage the enterprise.

In its newest replace, a Q1 report launched on 15 July, the enterprise stated retailer gross sales fell 21% in comparison with the identical interval final 12 months. This was on the again of a number of revenue warnings previous to this replace. The truth is, the agency is heading in the right direction for an working loss for the present half 12 months.

Restoration or continued decline?

I’m an optimist, however even Burberry shares aren’t precisely getting my juices flowing. But, the actual fact is that its model energy, vast attain, and potential for progress are thrilling.

The final level may very well be the important thing to any restoration. With such a powerful presence and a previous observe file of success in Asia, one of many world’s wealthiest areas, there may be potential for earnings to get well in the long run. That is linked to rising wealth on this space. Nonetheless, previous efficiency isn’t a assure of the longer term.

From a valuation perspective, I need to admit Burberry’s present valuation is tempting, because the shares commerce on a price-to-earnings ratio of simply 9. For context, the historic common is over 22, so the shares are in discount territory.

What about returns? Properly, when a share price slumps, the dividend yield is pushed up. Nonetheless, Burberry not too long ago introduced it’s halting payouts, at the very least for now. So there’s one much less factor for me so as to add to the professionals column as a part of my funding case. Nonetheless, as dividends are by no means assured, this isn’t one thing I couldn’t foresee coming off the again of a turbulent spell.

My verdict

I reckon as soon as volatility cools, Burberry might get again on observe, earnings might enhance, and the share price rise as soon as extra. That is if rate of interest cuts happen, and Chinese language financial points subside.

It’s an extended highway forward, for my part. As a Silly investor fascinated with long-term investments, I’d be mendacity if I didn’t say I used to be tempted.

Nonetheless, I reckon my cash is best invested in what I’d contemplate higher choices at current to assist me construct wealth. However I’ll definitely keep watch over developments, and will revisit my place quickly.