Walmart (WMT) recently delivered a better-than-expected third-quarter earnings report, while raising its full-year financial outlook. The retail giant posted strong sales and profits that surpassed Wall Street’s forecasts, signaling confidence heading into the holiday season. Total revenue climbed 5.8% to $179.5 billion, while its adjusted earnings per share of $0.62 also beat estimates. At press time, WMT is trading at $106, trading up 5% on Thursday and nearly trading even in the past month.
Walmart also lifted its adjusted earnings per share outlook to $2.58 to $2.63, compared with $2.52 to $2.62 previously. Additionally, the retail giant also said it will shift its stock listing to the Nasdaq from the NYSE. Shares popped following the news, helping WMT continue its solid year that’s seen it grow 17.96% YTD. “Holiday is off to a pretty good start,” Chief Financial Officer John David Rainey said on a post-earnings call, pointing to strong Halloween and early Thanksgiving sales. With Thanksgiving and the Christmas Holiday on the way, even more gains could be ahead before 2025 ends.
Walmart’s shares are not very volatile this year, with only 2 moves greater than 5% over the last year. In that context, today’s move indicates the market considers this news meaningful, and it could be a sign of further stock gains. Walmart WMT is trading close to its 52-week high of $109.03 from October 2025. Investors who bought $1,000 worth of Walmart’s shares 5 years ago would now be looking at an investment worth $2,143.
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Compared to other dividend stocks, many analysts view WMT as one of the best options on the market. Its growth in the last decade is remarkable, and many forecast that growth to continue. Fortunately, Wall Street expects a strong climb in Walmart (WMT) shares by the end of this year. Per analysts at BTIG, Walmart’s integrated digital and physical strategy is “delivering value” to customers and shareholders. Additionally, CEO Doug McMillon has positioned the company for continued market share and profit gains despite macro pressures. As a result, BTIG has initiated a buy rating on WMT with a $120 price target.