American Eagle initiated with a Hold at Needham

Needham analyst Tom Nikic initiated coverage of American Eagle (AEO) with a Hold rating and no price target The company’s Aerie brand is doing “extremely well” and the shares are inexpensive relative to history, the analyst tells investors in a research note. Needham, however, awaits more evidence of share catalysts before recommending the shares, saying Aerie’s growth will likely slow as compares get significantly more difficult in the second half of the year.