Paris, Feb 1, 2026, 17:44 CET — Markets have closed.
- On Friday, LVMH shares ended at 546.90 euros, gaining 0.8%.
- Investors are focused on labour developments at Moët Hennessy and awaiting the upcoming wave of broker calls.
Markets were closed on Sunday, and LVMH shares finished Friday 0.8% higher at 546.90 euros.
This is significant as the stock struggles to find footing after plunging earlier this week, triggered by investors fleeing post the group’s annual results and a subdued outlook.
Attention has tightened on LVMH’s drinks division, where sluggish sales are now sparking labor tensions—a tough spot for a brand built on scarcity and composure. Investors are also recalibrating their expectations for a 2026 “recovery,” particularly if pricing power begins to falter.
Reuters reported Friday that Hennessy has struck a pay agreement with unions to make up for bonuses missed last year amid weak sales, according to two sources. The deal features a one-off payment equal to 6.8% of annual salaries, with a floor of about 3,200 euros per employee and a ceiling near 6,500 euros. The agreement is set for formal signing Tuesday. A company spokesperson declined to comment.
The deal hasn’t resolved labor unrest in the division. The CGT announced a fresh strike set for Feb. 3 at LVMH’s Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot champagne units, according to a CGT press release.
Barclays maintained its Neutral rating but lowered the target price to 570 euros from 580, according to a MarketScreener report citing dpa-AFX.
LVMH is aiming for consistency in its shareholder communication. The group announced it will recommend a 13-euro dividend for 2025 at the shareholders’ meeting scheduled for April 23, 2026. An interim payout of 5.50 euros was already made in December, leaving the remaining 7.50 euros to be paid out on April 30.
Macro factors remain prominent, especially in rates and currencies. European shares climbed on Friday as earnings reports and Washington news were absorbed. Daniel Murray from EFG International noted about Kevin Warsh: “Warsh is a lawyer, but he does have some central banking experience.” Reuters
On the retail front in the U.S., luxury brands like Chanel, LVMH, and Kering are pushing for early payouts as “critical vendors” amid Saks Global’s bankruptcy, Reuters reports. LVMH has staked a $26 million claim. Melissa Jacoby from UNC School of Law pointed out that as unsecured creditors, vendors often end up with nothing. Reuters
But the simple story — labour deal means stability — can unravel quickly. Should disputes spread or spirits demand stay sluggish, investors may see it not as a one-time blip but a hit to earnings quality.
Hard catalysts are coming fast: Tuesday’s anticipated signing of the Hennessy deal and the potential Feb. 3 strike at the champagne houses. After those events, traders will shift focus to the next luxury sector updates that could shake the market, not just individual stocks.
