Core Insights - Walmart has become the latest company to join the $1 trillion market cap club, marking a significant milestone for the world's largest retailer by sales [2] - The company has shown remarkable investment performance, with a stock gain of 4,755,356% since its IPO in 1970 and a 29% increase over the past year, outperforming the S&P 500 [2] Group 1: Company Overview - Walmart opened its first discount store in 1962 and has grown to over 5,200 locations, establishing itself as a leader in e-commerce [3] - The company's focus on low prices, initiated by founder Sam Walton, has proven successful despite initial skepticism from competitors [3] Group 2: Technological Integration - Walmart's strategy includes leveraging technology to maintain low prices, with a recent move to the Nasdaq index reflecting its tech-driven approach [4] - The integration of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) aims to enhance customer experiences and improve operational efficiency [4] Group 3: Financial Performance - In fiscal 2026 Q3, Walmart reported net sales of $177 billion, a 5.8% year-over-year increase, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) rising 7% to $0.62 [5] - Global e-commerce sales surged by 27%, and U.S. comparable sales increased by 4.8%, driven by a 1.8% rise in transactions and a 2.7% increase in average ticket size [5] Group 4: Future Outlook - Management has raised its full-year outlook, projecting a 5% increase in net sales, up from a previous forecast of 3.5% growth [6]
The Newest Member of the $1 Trillion Club Has Soared 4,755,356% Since Its IPO, and It's Still a Buy Right Now, According to Wall Street (Hint: Not a Tech Stock)