Pandemic in its early days; company earnings tell the story

The outbreak of the coronavirus has dealt a shock to the global economy with unprecedented speed. Following are developments Monday related to national and global response, the work place and the spread of the virus.

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EARNINGS SEASON: The damage from the pandemic is playing out in quarter earnings reports, which have begun to capture the earliest days of the outbreak. Quarterly growth has plunged 13% for S&P 500 companies that have reported, according to S&P Global. Most companies have withdrawn all financial guidance for the year given the unprecedented disruption to the economy.

— Under Armour's sales fell 23% in the first quarter, with 15% of that decline related to the impact of the virus outbreak. The report Monday dragged down a bunch of other clothing makers including Hanesbrands, PVH, Tapestry and Capri.

— If there is any potentially good news for the crippled hotel industry, it can be found in China. Marriott, like other lodging companies with operations in China, said Monday that business there is starting to come back. Still, Marriott's revenue per available room dropped 22.5% and it slashed its expectations for this quarter.

— Coty, the cosmetics company, reported a surprise loss Monday, but it also received some desperately needed cash. The private equity firm KKR & Co is investing $750 million in Coty Inc.

UNCERTAIN FUTURE: Companies from all sectors are trying to find a path out of the pandemic, and it's faltering. Neiman Marcus and J.Crew have already filed for bankruptcy protection, along with a smattering of energy companies. Hundreds more are expected.

— Stage Stores filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Monday. The company said it will simultaneously solicit bids from those seeking to keep...