CarMax: Solid Execution, But I Still Have Lingering Concerns (Rating Upgrade To Hold)

  • I am upgrading CarMax from sell to hold after strong 1Q26 results and impressive retail growth, despite a tough macro environment. Management's execution on pricing and inventory, especially the Value Max program, drove robust sales across both budget and premium segments. Credit quality in the CarMax Auto Finance segment remains a concern, with elevated loan loss provisions and declining financing penetration posing earnings headwinds.