The U.S. economy is likely expanding significantly, as the Federal Reserve is now predicting that the economy will grow by a strong, seasonally adjusted, annualized rate of 2.9% above inflation during the current quarter. Still, the U.S. unemployment rate surged to 4.3% in July — up from 4.1% in June. The savings rate tumbled to 3.4% of after-tax income in June 2024 from 4.8% during the same period a year earlier. Further, multiple, major companies, including Disney (NYSE:DIS), Macy’s (NYSE:M), and Amazon ( ...

The U.S. Commerce Department reported that retail sales in June remained unchanged, countering concerns about the economy entering a recession. The stability in retail sales –and, by extension, retail stocks — was primarily due to a balance between a decline in auto dealership receipts and robustness in other sectors, suggesting a resilient consumer base and supporting a positive outlook for economic growth in the second quarter.The department’s findings also indicated that retail sales in May were higher t ...

This prediction might look bold, given the stock's impressive gain in recent years.One of the best-performing stocks in recent memory could not be further from the tech sector or the ongoing artificial intelligence (AI) boom. I'm talking about Costco (COST -0.24%). Shares of the warehouse-club operator have produced a total return of 233% in the past five years, outpacing the S&P 500 by 96%.While the retail stock has continued its momentum throughout 2024, I'm not bullish as we look ahead. I predict that Co ...

These stocks are on the expensive side, but if their prices fall, it'll be the opportunity you've been waiting for.A market sell-off never feels good, but the smartest investors know it presents an opportunity too. After you get over your initial feelings of worry, your next move should be to start looking for bargains.If the market continues to decline in the coming weeks and months, Costco Wholesale (COST 0.14%), MercadoLibre (MELI 0.76%), and Shopify (SHOP 2.33%) are three stocks to keep a close eye on. ...

slobo Investment Thesis As concerns about a potential US recession loom, investors are worried that companies, like Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) may fall victim. Other US retailers, such as Dollar Tree, Inc. (DLTR), have already reported signs of weakening consumer spending (which I will expand on later in this article), indicating that some segments of the market are under pressure. At first glance, Costco might appear vulnerable to these same recessionary fears. However, I think this perspec ...

Costco has a wonderful business, but the stock's current valuation reflects those attributes.Costco Wholesale (COST 1.01%) has emerged as one of the most successful and admired retail companies. Its approach of selling high-quality goods in bulk at discounted prices continues to draw increasing sales, new warehouse openings, and membership renewals.This success has come with one unfortunate consequence for those who do not hold shares in the retail stock: an expensive valuation. With its price-to-earnings r ...

Are we headed for an economic recession? JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:JPM) puts the odds at 35%, up from 25% earlier this year. Many economists are sounding the alarm, pointing to a slowing labor market and pullback in consumer spending. Notable investors such as Warren Buffett are battening down the hatches, selling stocks and raising cash.While there continues to be some debate about if, when, and how severe a recession in the U.S. would be, nearly everyone is in agreement that an economic downturn will lead to c ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) has once again demonstrated its strength with another successful month of sales. Its solid July sales numbers reflect an effective business strategy. The warehouse operator excels through strategic growth initiatives, smart pricing and strong membership trends, all of which have contributed to its impressive performance. Let’s delve into the details of Costco's recent performance and explore why this retail giant remains a dominant force in the market.Let’s Dig DeeperThe ...

Whenever Wall Street analysts recommend a stock, investors must keep two things in mind. First, their reputations and careers are on the line when making these recommendations, so going against the momentum and odds isn’t something they are likely to do. Second, knowing how important these decisions are to these analysts’ well-being, investors can place a much heavier weight on the decisions made during volatile markets like today’s S&P 500.Waking up to the worst day of 2024 last week was a mere beginning f ...

ISSAQUAH, Wash., Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Costco Wholesale Corporation (“Costco” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: COST) today reported net sales of $19.26 billion for the retail month of July, the four weeks ended August 4, 2024, an increase of 7.1 percent from $17.99 billion last year. Net sales for the first 48 weeks were $229.81 billion, an increase of 7.1 percent from $214.53 billion last year. Comparable sales were as follows:  4 Weeks 48 WeeksU.S.5.3% 4.5%Canada6.3% 7.2%Other International3.7% 8.1% ...