Retail Sector Survives Holiday Season; Urban Outfitters Inc. (URBN) Remains Strong

The retail sector did well in 2009 in comparison to the preceding year. The year had its own share of problems like blizzards, customers waiting for better deals and lower inventories. However, due to lower expectations and a smaller comparison base, the year performed better.

In a recently released report, Brean Murray has given the buy rating to Aeropostale (NYSE: ARO), Urban Outfitters Inc. (NASDAQ: URBN) and The Wet Seal Inc. (NASDAQ: WTSLA), whereas Abercrombie & Fitch (NYSE: ANF) and American Eagle Outfitters (NYSE: AEO) have received the ’Sell’ recommendation. The report stated that Abercombie is likely to miss earnings and comps guidelines. The report was optimistic about Aeropostale and Urban Outfitters Inc.