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Published: 2023-06-08 00:00:00 ET
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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
þ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Quarterly Period Ended April 29, 2023
o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Transition Period from ____________ to ____________
Commission File Number: 001-12951
THE BUCKLE, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Nebraska47-0366193
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 2407 West 24th Street, Kearney, Nebraska  68845-4915
(Address of principal executive offices)     (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (308) 236-8491
____________________________________________________________________
(Former name, former address, and former fiscal year if changed since last report)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each ClassTrading Symbol(s)Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common Stock, $0.01 par valueBKENew York Stock Exchange
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for a shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer þ; Accelerated filer o;
Non-accelerated filer o; Smaller reporting company o;
Emerging growth company o
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes o No þ
The number of shares outstanding of the Registrant's Common Stock, $0.01 par value, as of June 2, 2023, was 50,456,196.


THE BUCKLE, INC.

FORM 10-Q
INDEX

  Pages
Part I. Financial Information (unaudited)
   
   
 
   
   
   
Part II. Other Information
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
2

THE BUCKLE, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Amounts in Thousands Except Share and Per Share Amounts)
(Unaudited)
ASSETSApril 29,
2023		January 28,
2023
CURRENT ASSETS:  
Cash and cash equivalents$254,433 $252,077 
Short-term investments23,066 20,997 
Receivables6,356 12,648 
Inventory137,735 125,134 
Prepaid expenses and other assets12,325 12,480 
Total current assets433,915 423,336 
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT471,152 466,321 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization(355,091)(353,919)
116,061 112,402 
 
OPERATING LEASE RIGHT-OF-USE ASSETS265,716 271,421 
LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS22,512 20,624 
OTHER ASSETS10,656 9,796 
Total assets$848,860 $837,579 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY  
CURRENT LIABILITIES:  
Accounts payable$57,774 $44,835 
Accrued employee compensation17,942 55,490 
Accrued store operating expenses23,627 19,754 
Gift certificates redeemable14,325 16,777 
Current portion of operating lease liabilities84,619 89,187 
Income taxes payable8,517 — 
Total current liabilities206,804 226,043 
DEFERRED COMPENSATION22,512 20,624 
NON-CURRENT OPERATING LEASE LIABILITIES214,370 214,598 
Total liabilities443,686 461,265 
COMMITMENTS
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:  
Common stock, authorized 100,000,000 shares of $0.01 par value; 50,456,196 and 50,092,616 shares issued and outstanding at April 29, 2023 and January 28, 2023 respectively
505 501 
Additional paid-in capital182,544 178,964 
Retained earnings222,125 196,849 
Total stockholders’ equity405,174 376,314 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$848,860 $837,579 

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
3

THE BUCKLE, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Amounts in Thousands Except Per Share Amounts)
(Unaudited)
 Thirteen Weeks Ended
 April 29,
2023		April 30,
2022
SALES, Net of returns and allowances$282,834 $309,064 
COST OF SALES (Including buying, distribution, and occupancy costs)
149,577 156,904 
Gross profit133,257 152,160 
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Selling66,102 67,246 
General and administrative13,425 11,855 
79,527 79,101 
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS53,730 73,059 
OTHER INCOME, Net3,139 125 
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES56,869 73,184 
INCOME TAX EXPENSE13,933 17,930 
NET INCOME$42,936 $55,254 
EARNINGS PER SHARE:  
Basic$0.87 $1.12 
Diluted$0.86 $1.12 
Basic weighted average shares49,513 49,214 
Diluted weighted average shares49,861 49,528 

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
4

THE BUCKLE, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(Amounts in Thousands Except Share and Per Share Amounts)
(Unaudited)
 Number
of Shares		Common
Stock		Additional
Paid-in
Capital		Retained
Earnings		Total
FISCAL 2023     
BALANCE, January 29, 202350,092,616 $501 $178,964 $196,849 $376,314 
Net income— — — 42,936 42,936 
 Dividends paid on common stock, ($0.35 per share)
— — — (17,660)(17,660)
Issuance of non-vested stock, net of forfeitures
363,580 4 (4)— — 
Amortization of non-vested stock grants, net of forfeitures
— — 3,584 — 3,584 
BALANCE, April 29, 202350,456,196 $505 $182,544 $222,125 $405,174 
FISCAL 2022     
BALANCE, January 30, 202249,728,651 $497 $167,328 $145,099 $312,924 
Net income— — — 55,254 55,254 
 Dividends paid on common stock, ($0.35 per share)
— — — (17,533)(17,533)
Issuance of non-vested stock, net of forfeitures
366,200 4 (4)— — 
Amortization of non-vested stock grants, net of forfeitures
— — 2,948 — 2,948 
BALANCE, April 30, 202250,094,851 $501 $170,272 $182,820 $353,593 

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
5

THE BUCKLE, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Amounts in Thousands)
(Unaudited)
 Thirteen Weeks Ended
 April 29,
2023		April 30,
2022
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:  
Net income$42,936 $55,254 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities:  
Depreciation and amortization4,853 4,488 
Amortization of non-vested stock grants, net of forfeitures3,584 2,948 
Deferred income taxes(860)(707)
Other113 29 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:  
Receivables720 1,690 
Inventory(12,601)(19,071)
Prepaid expenses and other assets155 (9,535)
Accounts payable13,634 1,109 
Accrued employee compensation(37,548)(38,960)
Accrued store operating expenses4,280 7,299 
Gift certificates redeemable(2,452)(2,859)
Income taxes payable14,089 18,101 
Other assets and liabilities2,392 1,717 
Net cash flows from operating activities33,295 21,503 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:  
Purchases of property and equipment(9,320)(7,114)
Purchases of investments(11,194)(5,883)
Proceeds from sales/maturities of investments7,235 5,130 
Net cash flows from investing activities(13,279)(7,867)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:  
Payment of dividends(17,660)(17,533)
Net cash flows from financing activities(17,660)(17,533)
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS2,356 (3,897)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, Beginning of period252,077 253,970 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, End of period$254,433 $250,073 

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
6

THE BUCKLE, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
THIRTEEN WEEKS ENDED APRIL 29, 2023 AND APRIL 30, 2022
(Dollar Amounts in Thousands Except Share and Per Share Amounts)
(Unaudited)

1.Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary for the fair presentation of the results of operations for the interim periods have been included. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. Because of the seasonal nature of the business, results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of a full year's operations. The accounting policies followed by the Company and additional footnotes are reflected in the consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended January 28, 2023, included in The Buckle, Inc.'s 2022 Form 10-K. The condensed consolidated balance sheet as of January 28, 2023 is derived from audited financial statements.

For purposes of this report, unless the context otherwise requires, all references herein to the “Company,” “Buckle,” “we,” “us,” or similar terms refer to The Buckle, Inc. and its subsidiary.

The Company follows generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”). References to GAAP in these notes are to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”).

2.Revenues

The Company is a retailer of medium to better priced casual apparel, footwear, and accessories for fashion conscious young men and women. The Company operates its business as one reportable segment. The Company sells its merchandise through its retail stores and e-Commerce platform. The Company had 440 stores located in 42 states throughout the United States as of April 29, 2023 and 439 stores in 42 states as of April 30, 2022. During the thirteen week period ended April 29, 2023, the Company opened 2 new stores, substantially remodeled 4 stores, and closed 3 stores. During the thirteen week period ended April 30, 2022, the Company opened no new stores, substantially remodeled 6 stores, and closed 1 store.

For the thirteen week periods ended April 29, 2023 and April 30, 2022, online revenues accounted for 18.1% and 17.6%, respectively, of the Company's net sales. No sales to an individual customer or country, other than the United States, accounted for more than 10% of net sales.

7

The following is information regarding the Company’s major product lines, stated as a percentage of the Company’s net sales:

 Thirteen Weeks Ended
Merchandise GroupApril 29,
2023		April 30,
2022
Denims41.7 %40.0 %
Tops (including sweaters)27.1 27.8 
Accessories10.8 8.9 
Footwear8.1 11.9 
Sportswear/Fashions7.8 7.3 
Casual bottoms1.2 1.0 
Outerwear0.9 0.8 
Youth2.4 2.3 
Total100.0 %100.0 %

Effective July 1, 2022, the Company entered into a new five year agreement (the "Agreement") with Bread Financial and Comenity Bank (collectively the "Bank"), to provide guests with private label credit cards ("PLCC"). Each PLCC bears the Buckle brand logo and can only be used at the Company's retail locations and eCommerce platform. The Bank is the sole owner of the accounts issued under the PLCC program and bears full risk associated with guest non-payment.

As part of the Agreement, the Company receives a percentage of PLCC sales from the Bank, along with other incentive payments upon the achievement of certain performance targets. All amounts received from the Bank under the Agreement are recorded in net sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income.

3.Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share data are based on the weighted average outstanding common shares during the period. Diluted earnings per share data are based on the weighted average outstanding common shares and the effect of all dilutive potential common shares.

Thirteen Weeks EndedThirteen Weeks Ended
April 29, 2023April 30, 2022
Net IncomeWeighted
Average
Shares (a)		Per Share
Amount		Net IncomeWeighted
Average
Shares (a)		Per Share
Amount
Basic EPS$42,936 49,513 $0.87 $55,254 49,214 $1.12 
Effect of Dilutive Securities:      
Non-vested shares— 348 (0.01)— 314 — 
Diluted EPS$42,936 49,861 $0.86 $55,254 49,528 $1.12 
(a)    Shares in thousands.

8

4.Investments

The following is a summary of investments as of April 29, 2023:
 
Amortized
Cost or
Par Value		Gross
Unrealized
Gains		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Other-than-
Temporary
Impairment		Estimated
Fair
Value
Held-to-Maturity Securities:     
State and municipal bonds$23,066 $2 $(27)$— $23,041 
Trading Securities:     
Mutual funds$22,760 $— $(248)$— $22,512 
 
The following is a summary of investments as of January 28, 2023:
 
Amortized
Cost or
Par Value		Gross
Unrealized
Gains		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Other-than-
Temporary
Impairment		Estimated
Fair
Value
Held-to-Maturity Securities:     
State and municipal bonds$20,997 $10 $(15)$— $20,992 
Trading Securities:     
Mutual funds$20,871 $— $(247)$— $20,624 

The amortized cost and fair value of debt securities by contractual maturity as of April 29, 2023 is as follows:
 
Amortized
Cost		Fair
Value
Held-to-Maturity Securities  
Less than 1 year$23,066 $23,041 
1 - 5 years— — 
 Total$23,066 $23,041 
 
As of April 29, 2023 and January 28, 2023, all of the Company's investments in held-to-maturity securities are classified in short-term investments. Trading securities are held in a Rabbi Trust, intended to fund the Company’s deferred compensation plan, and are classified in long-term investments.

9

5.Fair Value Measurements

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Financial assets and liabilities measured and reported at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of the following categories:

•Level 1 – Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Short-term and long-term investments with active markets or known redemption values are reported at fair value utilizing Level 1 inputs.
•Level 2 – Observable market-based inputs (either directly or indirectly) such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or inputs that are corroborated by market data.
•Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data and are projections, estimates, or interpretations that are supported by little or no market activity and are significant to the fair value of the assets.

As of April 29, 2023 and January 28, 2023, the Company held certain assets that are required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis including its investments in trading securities.

The Company’s financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:
 
 Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets		Significant
Observable
Inputs		Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
April 29, 2023(Level 1)(Level 2)(Level 3)Total
Trading securities (including mutual funds)$22,512 $— $— $22,512 
 
 Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets		Significant
Observable
Inputs		Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
January 28, 2023(Level 1)(Level 2)(Level 3)Total
Trading securities (including mutual funds)$20,624 $— $— $20,624 
 
Securities included in Level 1 represent securities which have publicly traded quoted prices.

The carrying value of cash equivalents approximates fair value due to the low level of risk these assets present and their relatively liquid nature, particularly given their short maturities. The Company also holds certain financial instruments that are not carried at fair value on the condensed consolidated balance sheets, including held-to-maturity securities. Held-to-maturity securities consist primarily of state and municipal bonds. The fair values of these debt securities are based on quoted market prices and yields for the same or similar securities, which the Company determined to be Level 2 inputs. As of April 29, 2023, the fair value of held-to-maturity securities was $23,041 compared to the carrying amount of $23,066. As of January 28, 2023, the fair value of held-to-maturity securities was $20,992 compared to the carrying amount of $20,997.


10

The carrying values of receivables, accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other current liabilities approximates fair value because of their short-term nature. From time to time, the Company measures certain assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis, specifically long-lived assets evaluated for impairment. These are typically store specific assets, which are reviewed for impairment when circumstances indicate impairment may exist due to the questionable recoverability of the carrying values of long-lived assets. If expected future cash flows related to a store’s assets are less than their carrying value, an impairment loss would be recognized for the difference between the carrying value and the estimated fair value of the store's assets. The fair value of the store's assets is estimated utilizing an income-based approach based on the expected cash flows over the remaining life of the store's lease. The amount of impairment related to long-lived assets was immaterial for all periods presented.

6.Leases

The Company's lease portfolio is primarily comprised of leases for retail store locations. The Company also leases certain equipment and corporate office space. Store leases for new stores typically have an initial term of 10 years, with options to renew for an additional 1 to 5 years. The exercise of lease renewal options is at the Company's sole discretion and is included in the lease term for calculations of its right-of-use assets and liabilities when it is reasonably certain that the Company plans to renew these leases. Certain store lease agreements include rental payments based on a percentage of retail sales over contractual levels and others include rental payments adjusted periodically for inflation. Lease agreements do not contain any residual value guarantees, material restrictive covenants, or options to purchase the leased property.

The Company records its lease liabilities at the present value of the lease payments not yet paid, discounted at the rate of interest that the Company would have to pay to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term. As the Company's leases do not provide an implicit interest rate, the Company obtains an incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments.

The Company has elected to apply the practical expedient to account for lease components (e.g. fixed payments for rent, insurance, and real estate taxes) and non-lease components (e.g. fixed payments for common area maintenance) together as a single component for all underlying asset classes. Additionally, the Company elected as an accounting policy to exclude short-term leases from the recognition requirements.

Lease expense is included in cost of sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income. The components of total lease cost are as follows:

 Thirteen Weeks Ended
 April 29,
2023		April 30,
2022
Operating lease cost$24,325 $23,275 
Variable lease cost (a)
6,397 6,274 
Total lease cost$30,722 $29,549 
(a)     Includes variable payments related to both lease and non-lease components, such as contingent rent payments based on performance and payments related to taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. Also includes payments related to short-term leases with periods of less than twelve months.

11

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases is as follows:

 Thirteen Weeks Ended
 April 29,
2023		April 30,
2022
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases$25,214 $24,206 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations:
Operating leases$25,783 $13,916 

The Company uses its incremental borrowing rate as the discount rate to determine the present value of lease payments. As of April 29, 2023, the weighted-average remaining lease term was 5.1 years and the weighted-average discount rate was 4.9%.

The table below reconciles undiscounted future lease payments (e.g. fixed payments for rent, insurance, real estate taxes, and common area maintenance) for each of the next five fiscal years and the total of the remaining years to the operating lease liabilities recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of April 29, 2023:

Fiscal Year
Operating Leases (a)
2023 (remaining)$76,961 
202480,068 
202555,461 
202641,642 
202727,748 
Thereafter61,196 
Total lease payments343,076 
Less: Imputed interest44,087 
Total operating lease liability$298,989 
(a)     Operating lease payments exclude $33,905 of legally binding minimum lease payments for leases signed, but not yet commenced.

7.Supplemental Cash Flow Information

The Company had non-cash investing activities during the thirteen week periods ended April 29, 2023 and April 30, 2022 of $695 and ($187), respectively. The non-cash investing activity relates to the change in the balance of unpaid purchases of property, plant, and equipment included in accounts payable as of the end of the period. The liability for unpaid purchases of property, plant, and equipment included in accounts payable was $1,759 and $2,454 as of April 29, 2023 and January 28, 2023, respectively. Amounts reported as unpaid purchases are recorded as cash outflows from investing activities for purchases of property, plant, and equipment in the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows in the period they are paid.

Additional cash flow information for the Company includes cash paid for income taxes during the thirteen week periods ended April 29, 2023 and April 30, 2022 of $703 and $536, respectively.

12

8.Stock-Based Compensation

The Company has several stock option plans which allow for granting of stock options to employees, executives, and directors. The Company has not granted any stock options since fiscal 2008 and there are currently no stock options outstanding. The Company also has a restricted stock plan that allows for the granting of non-vested shares of common stock to employees and executives and a restricted stock plan that allows for the granting of non-vested shares of common stock to non-employee directors. As of April 29, 2023, 283,338 shares were available for grant under the Company’s various restricted stock plans, of which 240,777 shares were available for grant to executive officers.

Compensation expense was recognized during fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022 for equity-based grants, based on the grant date fair value of the awards. The fair value of grants of non-vested common stock awards is the stock price on the date of grant.

Information regarding the impact of compensation expense related to grants of non-vested shares of common stock is as follows:

 Thirteen Weeks Ended
 April 29,
2023		April 30,
2022
Stock-based compensation expense, before tax$3,584 $2,948 
Stock-based compensation expense, after tax$2,706 $2,226 

Non-vested shares of common stock granted during the thirteen week periods ended April 29, 2023 and April 30, 2022 were granted pursuant to the Company’s 2005 Restricted Stock Plan and the Company’s 2008 Director Restricted Stock Plan. Shares granted under the 2005 Plan are typically "performance based" and vest over a period of four years, only upon certification by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors that the Company has achieved its pre-established performance targets for the fiscal year. Certain shares granted under the 2005 Plan, however, are "non-performance based" and vest over a period of four years without being subject to the achievement of performance targets. Shares granted under the 2008 Director Plan vest 25% on the date of grant and then in equal portions on each of the first three anniversaries of the date of grant.

A summary of the Company’s stock-based compensation activity related to grants of non-vested shares of common stock for the thirteen week period ended April 29, 2023 is as follows:
 
SharesWeighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Non-Vested - beginning of year657,494 $35.58 
Granted375,250 43.35 
Forfeited(11,670)35.40 
Vested(77,643)36.43 
Non-Vested - end of quarter943,431 $38.60 
 
As of April 29, 2023, there was $21,945 of unrecognized compensation expense related to grants of non-vested shares. It is expected that this expense will be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 2.2 years. The total fair value of shares vested during the thirteen week periods ended April 29, 2023 and April 30, 2022 was $2,892 and $2,810, respectively.

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9.Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

The Company has considered all recent accounting pronouncements and concluded that there are no recent accounting pronouncements that may have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements, based on current information.
14

THE BUCKLE, INC.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of the Company included in this Form 10-Q. All references herein to the “Company,” “Buckle,” “we,” “us,” or similar terms refer to The Buckle, Inc. and its subsidiary. The following is management’s discussion and analysis of certain significant factors which have affected the Company’s financial condition and results of operations during the periods included in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW

Company management considers the following items to be key performance indicators in evaluating Company performance.

Comparable Store Sales – Stores are deemed to be comparable stores if they were open in the prior year on the first day of the fiscal period being presented. Stores which have been remodeled, expanded, and/or relocated, but would otherwise be included as comparable stores, are not excluded from the comparable store sales calculation. Online sales are included in comparable store sales. Management considers comparable store sales to be an important indicator of current Company performance, helping leverage certain fixed costs when results are positive. Negative comparable store sales results could reduce net sales and have a negative impact on operating leverage, thus reducing net earnings.

Net Merchandise Margins – Management evaluates the components of merchandise margin including initial markup and the amount of markdowns during a period. Any inability to obtain acceptable levels of initial markups or any significant increase in the Company’s use of markdowns could have an adverse effect on the Company’s gross margin and results of operations.

Operating Margin – Operating margin is a good indicator for management of the Company’s success. Operating margin can be positively or negatively affected by comparable store sales, merchandise margins, occupancy costs, and the Company’s ability to control operating costs.

Cash Flow and Liquidity (working capital) – Management reviews current cash and short-term investments along with cash flow from operating, investing, and financing activities to determine the Company’s short-term cash needs for operations and expansion. The Company believes that existing cash, short-term investments, and cash flow from operations will be sufficient to fund current and long-term anticipated capital expenditures and working capital requirements for the next several years.

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following table sets forth certain financial data expressed as a percentage of net sales and the percentage change in the dollar amount of such items compared to the prior period:

Percentage of Net Sales
For Thirteen Weeks EndedPercentage
 April 29,
2023		April 30,
2022		Increase/(Decrease)
Net sales100.0 %100.0 %(8.5)%
Cost of sales (including buying, distribution, and occupancy costs)
52.9 %50.8 %(4.7)%
Gross profit47.1 %49.2 %(12.4)%
Selling expenses23.4 %21.8 %(1.7)%
General and administrative expenses
4.7 %3.8 %13.2 %
Income from operations19.0 %23.6 %(26.5)%
Other income, net1.1 %0.1 %2,407.8 %
Income before income taxes20.1 %23.7 %(22.3)%
Income tax expense4.9 %5.8 %(22.3)%
Net income15.2 %17.9 %(22.3)%

Net sales decreased from $309.1 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2022 to $282.8 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2023, a 8.5% decrease. Comparable store net sales for the thirteen week quarter ended April 29, 2023 decreased 9.2% from comparable store net sales for the prior year thirteen week period ended April 30, 2022. The reduction in total sales for the period was the result of a a 10.0% decrease in the number of transactions and a 0.6% decrease in the average unit retail, which were partially offset by a 2.3% increase in the average number of units sold per transaction. Online sales for the quarter decreased 5.6% to $51.3 million for the thirteen week period ended April 29, 2023 compared to $54.3 million for the thirteen week period ended April 30, 2022.

The Company's average retail price per piece of merchandise sold decreased $0.29, or 0.6%, during the first quarter of fiscal 2023 compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2022. This $0.29 decrease was primarily attributable to the following changes (with their corresponding effect on the overall average price per piece): a 4.0% increase in average denim price points ($0.75), a 12.0% increase in average accessory price points ($0.55), a 12.3% increase in average sportswear price points ($0.36), a 6.5% increase in average footwear price points ($0.23), a 5.5% increase in average woven shirt price points ($0.15), and an increase in average price points for certain other merchandise categories ($0.16); which were offset by a shift in the merchandise mix (-$2.49). These changes are primarily a reflection of merchandise shifts in terms of brands and product styles, fabrics, details, and finishes. Additionally, the shift in the merchandise mix was largely driven by gift-with-purchase ("GWP") promotional items related to the Company's Spring Brand Event. Excluding the impact of the GWP items, the average price per piece of merchandise sold increased 4.0%.

Gross profit after buying, distribution, and occupancy expenses was $133.3 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2023, compared to $152.2 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2022. As a percentage of net sales, gross profit was 47.1% in the first quarter of fiscal 2023, compared to 49.2% in the first quarter of fiscal 2022. The current quarter margin decline was the result of 140 basis points of deleveraged buying, distribution, and occupancy expenses, along with a 70 basis point decline in merchandise margins.

Selling, general, and administrative expenses were 28.1% of net sales for the first quarter of fiscal 2023, compared to 25.6% for the first quarter of fiscal 2022. The increase was the result of increases in store labor-related expenses (2.00%, as a percentage of net sales) and certain other expense categories (1.50%, as a percentage of net sales), which were partially offset by a reduction in expense related to incentive compensation accruals (1.00%, as a percentage of net sales).

As a result of the above changes, the Company's income from operations was $53.7 million, or 19.0% of net sales, for the first quarter of fiscal 2023, compared to income from operations of $73.1 million, or 23.6% of net sales, for the first quarter of fiscal 2022. Income tax expense as a percentage of pre-tax income was 24.5% for the first quarter of both fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022, bringing the Company's net income to $42.9 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2023 compared to $55.3 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2022.

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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

As of April 29, 2023, the Company had working capital of $227.1 million, including $254.4 million of cash and cash equivalents and $23.1 million of short-term investments. The Company's cash receipts are generated from retail sales and from investment income, and the Company's primary ongoing cash requirements are for inventory, payroll, occupancy costs, dividend payments, new store expansion, remodeling, and other capital expenditures. Historically, the Company's primary source of working capital has been cash flow from operations. During the first quarter of fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022, the Company's cash flow from operations was $33.3 million and $21.5 million, respectively. Changes in operating cash flow between periods is primarily a function of changes in net income, along with changes in inventory and accounts payable based on the timing and amount of merchandise purchased in each respective period. Operating cash flow is also impacted by the timing of certain other payments, including rent, income taxes, and annual incentive bonuses. The Company's growth in operating cash flow for the first quarter of fiscal 2023 compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2022 is primarily attributable to changes in inventory and accounts payable as the Company continued to manage and adjust to changing trends. Operating cash flow for fiscal 2022 was also impacted by the payment of May rent prior to quarter-end.

The uses of cash for both thirteen week periods primarily include payment of annual bonuses accrued at fiscal year end, inventory purchases, dividend payments, construction costs for new and remodeled stores, other capital expenditures, and purchases of investment securities.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2023 and 2022, the Company invested $8.8 million and $7.0 million, respectively, in new store construction, store renovation, and store technology upgrades. The Company also spent $0.5 million and $0.1 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2023 and 2022, respectively, in capital expenditures for the corporate headquarters and distribution facility.

During the remainder of fiscal 2023, the Company anticipates completing 7 new stores and an additional 13 full remodels. Management estimates that total capital expenditures during fiscal 2023 will be approximately $24.0 to $30.0 million, which includes primarily planned store projects and technology investments. The Company believes that existing cash and cash equivalents, investments, and cash flow from operations will be sufficient to fund current and long-term anticipated capital expenditures and working capital requirements for the next several years. The Company has a consistent record of generating positive cash flow from operations each year and, as of April 29, 2023, had total cash and investments of $300.0 million, including $22.5 million of long-term investments.

Future conditions, however, may reduce the availability of funds based upon factors such as a decrease in demand for the Company's product, change in product mix, competitive factors, and general economic conditions as well as other risks and uncertainties which would reduce the Company's sales, net profitability, and cash flows. Also, the Company's acceleration in store openings and/or remodels or the Company entering into a merger, acquisition, or other financial related transaction could reduce the amount of cash available for further capital expenditures and working capital requirements.

The Company has available an unsecured line of credit of $25.0 million with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. for operating needs and letters of credit. The line of credit agreement has an expiration date of July 31, 2023 and provides that $10.0 million of the $25.0 million line is available for letters of credit. Borrowings under the line of credit provide for interest to be paid at a rate based on SOFR. The Company has, from time to time, borrowed against these lines of credit. There were no bank borrowings during the first quarter of fiscal 2023 or 2022. The Company had no bank borrowings as of April 29, 2023 and was in compliance with the terms and conditions of the line of credit agreement.

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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations are based upon The Buckle, Inc.’s condensed consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires that management make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the financial statement date, and the reported amounts of sales and expenses during the reporting period. The Company regularly evaluates its estimates, including those related to inventory, investments, incentive bonuses, and income taxes. Management bases its estimates on past experience and on various other factors that are thought to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Management believes that the estimates and judgments used in preparing these consolidated financial statements were the most appropriate at that time. Presented below are those critical accounting policies that management believes require subjective and/or complex judgments that could potentially affect reported results of operations. The critical accounting policies and estimates utilized by the Company in the preparation of its condensed consolidated financial statements for the period ended April 29, 2023 have not changed materially from those utilized for the fiscal year ended January 28, 2023, included in The Buckle Inc.’s 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

1.Revenue Recognition. Retail store sales are recorded, net of expected returns, upon the purchase of merchandise by customers. Online sales are recorded, net of expected returns, when merchandise is tendered for delivery to the common carrier. Shipping fees charged to customers are included in revenue and shipping costs are included in selling expenses. The Company recognizes revenue from sales made under its layaway program upon delivery of the merchandise to the customer. Revenue is not recorded when gift cards and gift certificates are sold, but rather when a card or certificate is redeemed for merchandise. A current liability for unredeemed gift cards and certificates is recorded at the time the card or certificate is purchased. The liability recorded for unredeemed gift cards and gift certificates was $14.3 million and $16.8 million as of April 29, 2023 and January 28, 2023, respectively. Gift card and gift certificate breakage is recognized as revenue in proportion to the redemption pattern of customers by applying an estimated breakage rate. The estimated breakage rate is based on historical issuance and redemption patterns and is re-assessed by the Company on a regular basis. Sales tax collected from customers is excluded from revenue and is included as part of “accrued store operating expenses” on the Company's condensed consolidated balance sheets.

The Company establishes a liability for estimated merchandise returns, based upon the historical average sales return percentage, that is recognized at the transaction value. The Company also recognizes a return asset and a corresponding adjustment to cost of sales for the Company's right to recover returned merchandise, which is measured at the estimated carrying value, less any expected recovery costs. Customer returns could potentially exceed the historical average, thus reducing future net sales results and potentially reducing future net earnings. The accrued liability for reserve for sales returns was $4.2 million as of April 29, 2023 and $3.0 million as of January 28, 2023.

The Company's Buckle Rewards program allows participating guests to earn points for every qualifying purchase, which (after achievement of certain point thresholds) are redeemable as a discount off a future purchase. In addition, through partnership with Bread Financial and Comenity Bank (collectively the "Bank"), the Company offers a private label credit card ("PLCC") program. Buckle Rewards members with a PLCC earn additional points under the Buckle Rewards program for every qualifying purchase on their PLCC card. Reported revenue is net of both current period reward redemptions and accruals for estimated future rewards earned under the Buckle Rewards program. A liability has been recorded for future rewards based on the Company's estimate of how many earned points will turn into rewards and ultimately be redeemed prior to expiration. As of April 29, 2023 and January 28, 2023, $9.9 million and $10.1 million was included in "accrued store operating expenses" as a liability for estimated future rewards.

Effective July 1, 2022, the Company entered into a new five year agreement (the "Agreement") with the Bank, to continue providing guests with PLCC services. Each PLCC bears the Buckle brand logo and can only be used at the Company's retail locations and eCommerce platform. The Bank is the sole owner of the accounts issued under the PLCC program and bears full risk associated with guest non-payment.

As part of the Agreement, the Company receives a percentage of PLCC sales from the Bank, along with other incentive payments upon the achievement of certain performance targets. All amounts received from the Bank under the Agreement are recorded in net sales in the condensed consolidated statements of income.

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2.Inventory. Inventory is valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined using an average cost method that approximates the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Management makes adjustments to inventory and cost of goods sold, based upon estimates, to account for merchandise obsolescence and markdowns that could affect net realizable value, based on assumptions using calculations applied to current inventory levels within each different markdown level. Management also reviews the levels of inventory in each markdown group and the overall aging of the inventory versus the estimated future demand for such product and the current market conditions. Such judgments could vary significantly from actual results, either favorably or unfavorably, due to fluctuations in future economic conditions, industry trends, consumer demand, and the competitive retail environment. Such changes in market conditions could negatively impact the sale of markdown inventory, causing further markdowns or inventory obsolescence, resulting in increased cost of goods sold from write-offs and reducing the Company’s net earnings. The adjustment to inventory for markdowns and/or obsolescence was $7.0 million as of April 29, 2023 and $6.3 million as of January 28, 2023.

3.Income Taxes. The Company records a deferred tax asset and liability for expected future tax consequences resulting from temporary differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities. The Company considers future taxable income and ongoing tax planning in assessing the value of its deferred tax assets. If the Company determines that it is more than likely that these assets will not be realized, the Company would reduce the value of these assets to their expected realizable value, thereby decreasing net income. Estimating the value of these assets is based upon the Company’s judgment. If the Company subsequently determined that the deferred tax assets, which had been written down, would be realized in the future, such value would be increased. Adjustment would be made to increase net income in the period such determination was made.

4.Leases. The Company's lease portfolio is primarily comprised of leases for retail store locations. The Company also leases certain equipment and corporate office space. Store leases for new stores typically have an initial term of 10 years, with options to renew for an additional 1 to 5 years. The exercise of lease renewal options is at the Company's sole discretion and is included in the lease term for calculations of its right-of-use assets and liabilities when it is reasonably certain that the Company plans to renew these leases. Certain store lease agreements include rental payments based on a percentage of retail sales over contractual levels and others include rental payments adjusted periodically for inflation. Lease agreements do not contain any residual value guarantees, material restrictive covenants, or options to purchase the leased property.

The Company records its lease liabilities at the present value of the lease payments not yet paid, discounted at the rate of interest that the Company would have to pay to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term. As the Company's leases do not provide an implicit interest rate, the Company obtains an incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments.

The Company has elected to apply the practical expedient to account for lease components (e.g. fixed payments for rent, insurance, and real estate taxes) and non-lease components (e.g. fixed payments for common area maintenance) together as a single component for all underlying asset classes. Additionally, the Company elected as an accounting policy to exclude short-term leases from the recognition requirements.

5.Investments. Investments classified as short-term investments include securities with a maturity of greater than three months and less than one year. Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity (net of the effect of income taxes), using the specific identification method, until they are sold. Held-to-maturity securities are reported at amortized cost. Trading securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings, using the specific identification method.

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OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS, CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS, AND COMMERCIAL COMMITMENTS

As referenced in the table below, the Company has contractual obligations and commercial commitments that may affect the financial condition of the Company. Based on management’s review of the terms and conditions of its contractual obligations and commercial commitments, there is no known trend, demand, commitment, event, or uncertainty that is reasonably likely to occur which would have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. In addition, the commercial obligations and commitments made by the Company are customary transactions which are similar to those of other comparable retail companies.

The following table identifies the material obligations and commitments as of April 29, 2023:

 Payments Due by Fiscal Year
Contractual obligations (dollar amounts in thousands):Total2023 (remaining)2024-20252026-2027Thereafter
Purchase obligations$11,222 $6,533 $4,086 $603 $— 
Deferred compensation22,512 — — — 22,512 
Operating lease payments (a)
343,076 76,961 135,529 69,390 61,196 
Total contractual obligations$376,810 $83,494 $139,615 $69,993 $83,708 
(a)     See Footnote 6 to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

The Company has available an unsecured line of credit of $25.0 million, which is excluded from the preceding table. The line of credit agreement has an expiration date of July 31, 2023 and provides that $10.0 million of the $25.0 million line is available for letters of credit. Certain merchandise purchase orders require that the Company open letters of credit. When the Company takes possession of the merchandise, it releases payment on the letters of credit. The amounts of outstanding letters of credit reported reflect the open letters of credit on merchandise ordered, but not yet received or funded. The Company believes it has sufficient credit available to open letters of credit for merchandise purchases. There were no bank borrowings during the first quarter of fiscal 2023 or the first quarter of fiscal 2022. The Company had outstanding letters of credit totaling $2.6 million and $3.3 million as of April 29, 2023 and January 28, 2023, respectively. The Company has no other off-balance sheet arrangements.

SEASONALITY

The Company's business is seasonal, with the holiday season (from approximately November 15 to December 30) and the back-to-school season (from approximately July 15 to September 1) historically contributing the greatest volume of net sales. For fiscal years 2022, 2021, and 2020, the holiday and back-to-school seasons accounted for approximately 35% of the Company's fiscal year net sales. Quarterly results may vary significantly depending on a variety of factors including the timing and amount of sales and costs associated with the opening of new stores, the timing and level of markdowns, the timing of store closings, the remodeling of existing stores, competitive factors, and general economic conditions.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

Information in this report, other than historical information, may be considered to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “1995 Act”). Such statements are made in good faith by the Company pursuant to the safe-harbor provisions of the 1995 Act. In connection with these safe-harbor provisions, this management’s discussion and analysis contains certain forward-looking statements, which reflect management’s current views and estimates of future economic conditions, Company performance, and financial results. The statements are based on many assumptions and factors that could cause future results to differ materially. Such factors include, but are not limited to, changes in product mix, changes in fashion trends, competitive factors, and general economic conditions, economic conditions in the retail apparel industry, as well as other risks and uncertainties inherent in the Company’s business and the retail industry in general. Any changes in these factors could result in significantly different results for the Company. The Company further cautions that the forward-looking information contained herein is not exhaustive or exclusive. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, which may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company.

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ITEM 3 – QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Interest Rate Risk - The Company is exposed to market risk related to interest rate risk on the cash and investments in interest-bearing securities. These investments have carrying values that are subject to interest rate changes that could impact earnings to the extent that the Company did not hold the investments to maturity. If there are changes in interest rates, those changes would also affect the investment income the Company earns on its cash and investments. For each one-quarter percent decline in the interest/dividend rate earned on cash and investments, the Company’s net income would decrease approximately $0.5 million, or less than $0.01 per share. This amount could vary based upon the number of shares of the Company’s stock outstanding and the level of cash and investments held by the Company.

ITEM 4 – CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

The Company maintains a system of disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that material information, which is required to be timely disclosed, is accumulated and communicated to management in a timely manner. An evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)) was performed as of the end of the period covered by this report. This evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer.

Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the Company’s reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and are effective to provide reasonable assurance that such information is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC’s rules and forms.

Change in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Company's last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

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THE BUCKLE, INC.

PART II -- OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.    Legal Proceedings:    None

Item 1A. Risk Factors:

There have been no material changes from the risk factors disclosed under “Item 1A - Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 2023.

Item 2.    Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds:

The following table sets forth information concerning purchases made by the Company of its common stock for each of the months in the fiscal quarter ended April 29, 2023:

Total Number of Shares PurchasedAverage Price Paid Per ShareTotal Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced PlansMaximum Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under Publicly Announced Plans
     
Jan. 29, 2023 to Feb. 25, 2023---410,655 
Feb. 26, 2023 to Apr. 1, 2023---410,655 
Apr. 2, 2023 to Apr. 29, 2023---410,655 
 --- 
 
The Board of Directors authorized a 1,000,000 share repurchase plan on November 20, 2008. The Company has 410,655 shares remaining to complete this authorization.

Item 3.    Defaults Upon Senior Securities:        None

Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures:        None

Item 5.    Other Information:    None

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Item 6.    Exhibits:

Exhibit 31.1Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Executive Officer (Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)
Exhibit 31.2Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Financial Officer (Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)
Exhibit 32.1Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 32.2Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 101
The following materials from The Buckle, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 29, 2023, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets; (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income; (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity; (iv) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows; and (v) Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, tagged as blocks of text and in detail.
Exhibit 104Cover page formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101
    
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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

THE BUCKLE, INC.
Date:June 8, 2023By:/s/ DENNIS H. NELSON
   DENNIS H. NELSON,
President and CEO
   (principal executive officer)
Date:June 8, 2023By:/s/ THOMAS B. HEACOCK
   THOMAS B. HEACOCK,
   Senior Vice President of Finance, Treasurer, and CFO
   (principal accounting officer)

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EXHIBIT INDEX

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Executive Officer (Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Financial Officer (Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 101
The following materials from The Buckle, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 29, 2023, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets; (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income; (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity; (iv) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows; and (v) Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, tagged as blocks of text and in detail.
Exhibit 104Cover page formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101

25