Core Viewpoint - Walmart plans to increase prices due to the impact of tariffs on goods, indicating that the magnitude and speed of these price hikes could be unprecedented in history [1][2]. Price Increases - The company has already begun raising prices on certain items, such as bananas, which increased from 50 cents to 54 cents per pound [1]. - Walmart's Chief Financial Officer, John David Rainey, warned that consumers will see higher prices "towards the tail end of this month, and then certainly much more in June" due to the tariffs [3]. Financial Performance - Despite the challenging environment, Walmart reported strong sales, with US same-store sales increasing by 4.5% and Sam's Club by 6.7% for the three months ending May 2 [7]. - E-commerce sales in the US rose by 21%, marking the 12th consecutive double-digit gain, while global online sales increased by 22% year-over-year [7]. - However, net income fell to $4.49 billion, or 56 cents per share, down from $5.10 billion, or 63 cents per share, in the same period last year, and revenue rose about 2.5% to $161.5 billion, missing expectations of $165.84 billion [9]. Market Positioning - The company plans to absorb some tariff costs to maintain competitive pricing against rivals [4][8]. - Walmart has not canceled any orders but has reduced the size of some purchases in anticipation of customer pullback due to tariffs [11]. - The retailer expects to gain market share during the trade war, as more high-income households chose Walmart for groceries in the previous quarter [10].

Core Insights - Walmart reported strong quarterly performance but warned of price increases due to tariffs and economic instability [1][2] - The company experienced a 4.5% increase in same-store sales in the U.S. and adjusted earnings per share of $0.61, exceeding Wall Street expectations [1] - Despite the positive sales growth, there are concerns about fluctuating sales and the impact of tariffs on pricing strategies [1][3] Financial Performance - For the quarter ending April 30, Walmart's U.S. same-store sales grew by 4.5% [1] - Adjusted earnings per share were reported at $0.61, surpassing analyst forecasts [1] Economic and Trade Environment - The ongoing trade discussions and tariff policies create uncertainty, leading Walmart to refrain from providing current quarter revenue guidance [2] - The company highlighted that the retail environment is challenging, with unprecedented price increases affecting consumer behavior [2][3] - Walmart's CFO noted that the impact of tariffs is significant enough that retailers cannot absorb the costs [2] Consumer Behavior and Sales Trends - There has been a noted decline in sales of general merchandise, while grocery and pharmacy sales remain strong [1] - The company is preparing for potential impacts on short-term profits due to consumer shifts towards lower-margin grocery purchases [3] - Price increases are expected to become more apparent in May, affecting consumers reliant on Walmart's low-price strategy [1][2]

Core Viewpoint - Retail sales in the U.S. showed a significant slowdown in April, indicating that consumers are reducing spending on imported goods due to concerns over rising prices from tariffs. The month-over-month growth rate for retail sales fell to 0.1%, down from a revised 1.7% in March, although it was above the expected flat growth [1]. Retail Sales Data - April retail sales increased by 0.1% month-over-month, which was higher than the expected 0.0% but lower than the previous month's revised growth of 1.7% [2]. - Retail sales excluding automobiles also grew by 0.1%, missing the expected 0.3% and down from a revised 0.8% in March [1][2]. Category Performance - Out of 13 reported categories, 7 experienced declines, with auto sales slightly down after a surge in March. However, spending at restaurants and bars continued to show strong growth for the second consecutive month [3]. - The control group sales, an important indicator for GDP calculations, decreased by 0.2%, suggesting a weak start for the second quarter [6]. Economic Outlook - The Atlanta Fed's GDPNow model predicted a 2.3% growth for the second quarter, indicating a significant rebound from the contraction seen earlier in the year due to tariff-related import surges [6]. - Federal Reserve officials remain uncertain about the long-term economic impact of tariffs and are likely to maintain interest rates in the near future, focusing on controlling inflation rather than preemptively cutting rates [6]. Consumer Confidence and Spending - Despite the lack of immediate inflation from tariffs, consumer confidence appears to be waning, with major retailers like Walmart indicating that they may need to raise prices due to tariffs and economic uncertainty [8]. - Executives from various companies, including Energizer Holdings and Nu Skin Enterprises, expressed concerns about the impact of tariffs and reduced consumer confidence on sales [8].

Core Viewpoint - Walmart reported quarterly earnings of $0.61 per share, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.57 per share, and showing a slight increase from $0.60 per share a year ago, indicating a 7.02% earnings surprise [1][2] Financial Performance - The company achieved revenues of $165.61 billion for the quarter ended April 2025, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.01%, and reflecting a year-over-year increase from $161.51 billion [2] - Over the last four quarters, Walmart has consistently surpassed consensus EPS estimates and revenue estimates [2] Stock Performance - Walmart shares have increased approximately 7.2% since the beginning of the year, significantly outperforming the S&P 500's gain of 0.2% [3] Future Outlook - The current consensus EPS estimate for the upcoming quarter is $0.70, with projected revenues of $174.71 billion, while the estimate for the current fiscal year is $2.59 on revenues of $702.68 billion [7] - The Zacks Rank for Walmart is currently 3 (Hold), indicating expected performance in line with the market in the near future [6] Industry Context - The Retail - Supermarkets industry, to which Walmart belongs, is currently ranked in the top 20% of over 250 Zacks industries, suggesting a favorable outlook compared to lower-ranked industries [8]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the first quarter, the company grew sales by 4% and profit by 3% in constant currency [7] - Consolidated revenue increased by 4% in constant currency, despite currency headwinds reducing reported sales results by $2.4 billion [25] - Adjusted operating income grew by 3% in constant currency, with adjusted EPS of 61 cents, higher than the guided range [33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Walmart US comp sales grew by 4.5%, aided by strong e-commerce sales growth of 21% [26] - Sam's Club US comp sales, excluding fuel, increased nearly 7%, with e-commerce growing by 27% [29] - International business sales grew by 7.8% in constant currency, driven by strength in China and Flipkart [28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - E-commerce globally grew by 22%, with each segment delivering growth of at least 20% [8] - In international markets, items delivered same or next day increased by 35%, with about 45% delivered in under three hours [28] - The number of deliveries in less than three hours for Walmart US grew by 91% year-on-year [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving e-commerce growth and reshaping its business model for higher profitability [9] - The strategy includes managing inventory effectively and navigating tariff impacts while maintaining low prices [11][21] - The company aims to grow profit faster than sales, with a commitment to diversifying income streams through advertising and membership [19][70] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating cost pressures from tariffs and maintaining profitability [21][39] - The company anticipates that economic uncertainty may provide opportunities to gain market share [37] - Management emphasized the importance of managing inventory well in a dynamic environment [46] Other Important Information - The company achieved e-commerce profitability for the first time on a global basis [30] - Membership fee income grew nearly 15% across the enterprise, with strong growth in Sam's Club and Walmart Plus memberships [31][32] - The company repurchased $4.6 billion in stock during the first quarter, equivalent to the total for the previous year [35] Q&A Session Summary Question: E-commerce profitability and future margins - Management highlighted that e-commerce profitability was achieved globally, driven by network densification and reduced delivery costs [51][52] Question: Balancing investments and profit growth - Management stated that they are striking the right balance between investment and profit growth, with a focus on diversifying income streams [70][71] Question: Consumer behavior across income levels - Management noted growth across all income cohorts, with a focus on value and speed of delivery [75][76] Question: Capital allocation and automation investment - Management confirmed that CapEx will remain in the range of 3% to 3.5% of sales, with a focus on long-term returns [85][86] Question: Strength in advertising and integration of Vizio - Management reported strong growth in Walmart Connect and highlighted the ongoing integration of Vizio [91][92] Question: Impact of tariffs on inventory planning - Management emphasized the importance of managing replenishable items and adjusting inventory based on tariff assumptions [106][107]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the first quarter, the company reported a sales growth of 4% and profit growth of 3% in constant currency [6] - International sales increased by 7.8%, with e-commerce growing globally by 22% [6][25] - Consolidated revenue increased by 4% in constant currency, despite currency headwinds reducing reported sales by $2.4 billion [25] - Adjusted operating income grew by 3% in constant currency, with adjusted EPS of 61¢ exceeding the guided range [33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Walmart US comp sales grew by 4.5%, driven by strong e-commerce sales growth of 21% [26] - Health and wellness sales increased in the high teens, while general merchandise sales saw a slight decline [26] - Sam's Club US comp sales, excluding fuel, increased nearly 7%, with e-commerce growing by 27% [28] - The advertising business across markets increased by 50%, with Walmart Connect in the US growing by 31% [31] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The international business saw a sales growth of 7.8% in constant currency, particularly strong in China and Flipkart [27] - Items delivered same or next day in international markets increased by 35%, with about 45% delivered in under three hours [27] - The company reported that over 50% of Sam's Club members now transact digitally [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on driving e-commerce growth and enhancing delivery speed, aiming to reach 95% of the US population with delivery options of three hours or less [8] - The strategy includes diversifying profit streams through e-commerce, advertising, and membership, with a commitment to grow profit faster than sales [19][36] - The company plans to continue investing in automation, store growth, and technology, while managing costs associated with tariffs [34][85] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating cost pressures from tariffs and maintaining profitability despite challenges [21][36] - The company anticipates that the current economic environment will not alter its long-term financial framework [36][95] - Management highlighted the importance of managing inventory effectively in a dynamic environment, particularly in light of tariff impacts [104] Other Important Information - The company repurchased $4.6 billion in stock during the first quarter, equivalent to the total share repurchases for the previous year [35] - The company expects capital expenditures to be in the range of 3% to 3.5% of sales for the fiscal year [35] Q&A Session Summary Question: E-commerce profitability and future margins - Management noted that e-commerce achieved profitability for the first time, driven by network densification and reduced delivery costs [50][51] Question: Balancing investments and profit growth - Management emphasized the importance of growing profit faster than sales while remaining open to increasing investments as needed [66] Question: Consumer behavior across income levels - Management reported growth across all income cohorts, with a focus on value and convenience for customers [73][78] Question: Capital allocation and share buybacks - Management confirmed a commitment to share buybacks in response to price dislocations, while balancing investments and dividends [85] Question: Impact of tariffs on marketplace sellers - Management indicated that inventory is flowing well and that tools have been developed to assist sellers in managing their inventory effectively [107]

Core Insights - Walmart reported fiscal Q4 2025 earnings of $0.66 per share on revenue of $180.55 billion, slightly exceeding Wall Street's revenue expectations but falling short of the whisper earnings forecast of $0.68 per share [2][4] - Earnings increased by 10% compared to the same quarter last year, while sales rose by 4%, indicating resilience despite tariff concerns and recession fears [2][11] - Analysts had anticipated earnings of $0.65 per share on revenue of $179.42 billion, making the revenue growth a positive sign for the company [4] Forward Estimates - Walmart projects Q1 2025 earnings between $0.57 and $0.58 per share, with revenue expected between $166.35 billion and $167.97 billion [5] - For fiscal 2026, the company anticipates earnings of $2.50 to $2.60 per share on revenue ranging from $701.4 billion to $708.2 billion, reflecting confidence in its performance amid economic challenges [5] Company Profile - Walmart operates as a tech-enabled omnichannel retailer, focusing on helping customers save money and live better through various shopping channels [6] - The company has three segments: Walmart U.S., Walmart International, and Sam's Club, and offers a wide range of products including groceries, health and wellness items, and consumer electronics [6][7][8][9] - Walmart was founded in 1945 and is headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas, having changed its name from Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. in February 2018 [10]

Group 1 - Walmart reported Q1 revenue of $165.6 billion, a 2.5% year-over-year increase, exceeding market expectations [1] - Non-GAAP earnings per share were $0.61, also better than market forecasts [1] - U.S. same-store sales grew by 4.5%, indicating success in market share acquisition through pricing strategies [1] Group 2 - The company anticipates price increases due to tariffs and economic instability, with CFO John David Rainey stating that price hikes will become evident in May [1][3] - Walmart has chosen not to provide revenue guidance for the current quarter due to uncertainty in ongoing trade negotiations [1][3] - The retail environment is challenging, with rising prices and significant fluctuations in sales volume [3] Group 3 - The impact of tariffs is expected to worsen, with Rainey noting that the retail sector is facing unprecedented price increases [3] - Walmart's global supply chain and scale provide it with a competitive advantage in negotiating better deals with suppliers [3] - The company has seen a shift in consumer purchasing behavior towards lower-margin grocery items, affecting overall profitability [5] Group 4 - Walmart's online business recently achieved quarterly profitability for the first time, providing a buffer for investments in pricing and other areas [4] - Advertising and new departments have higher profit margins than core store operations, supporting the company's pricing strategy [4] Group 5 - Despite the challenges, Walmart views the tariff environment as an opportunity to gain market share while maintaining low prices [5] - The stock has shown resilience, with a 0.7% pre-market increase and a 7.7% rise year-to-date, outperforming the S&P 500 index [5]

Core Insights - The Chief Financial Officer of Walmart highlighted the strong performance of the company's private label brands [1] Group 1 - The sales of Walmart's private label products have shown exceptional results, indicating a positive trend in consumer preference for these brands [1]

Core Viewpoint - Walmart's Q1 net sales increased by 2.5% to $165.6 billion, slightly below expectations, while comparable sales grew by 4.5%, exceeding analyst forecasts [1][4]. Financial Performance - The company maintained its annual sales and profit forecasts for FY2026, expecting adjusted EPS between $2.50 and $2.60, with annual sales growth of 3% to 4% [3][10]. - Q1 operating income reached $7.14 billion, a 4.3% year-over-year increase, with a gross margin of 24.2%, up 12 basis points [4]. - The U.S. segment reported net sales of $112.2 billion, a 3.2% increase, with comparable sales growth of 4.5% [6][7]. E-commerce and Digital Growth - Global e-commerce sales grew by 22%, driven by in-store pickup, delivery, and third-party platforms, contributing approximately 350 basis points to U.S. comparable sales [5][8]. - The U.S. advertising revenue increased by 31%, excluding the newly acquired VIZIO, while global advertising revenue rose by 50% [5]. Market Resilience and Challenges - The U.S. market demonstrated strong resilience, particularly in health, wellness, and grocery categories, leading to a 7.0% increase in operating profit for the U.S. segment [6][8]. - CFO John David Rainey highlighted the challenging retail environment due to rapid price increases driven by tariffs, indicating that retailers cannot absorb all cost pressures [3][10]. International Performance - Walmart's international sales reached $29.8 billion, with a 7.8% increase when adjusted for currency, although operating income fell by 17.5% due to strategic investments in markets like Flipkart and Walmex [8][9]. Economic Outlook - The company is accelerating the development of high-margin digital businesses, including advertising and membership services, amidst declining consumer confidence and concerns over a potential economic recession [10].