Core Insights - Costco Wholesale Corp. demonstrated steady sales growth in August, reflecting strong consumer demand across various categories [1] - The company reported a 6.9% year-over-year increase in consolidated comparable sales, with notable growth in U.S. (6.7%), Canada (9.4%), and international markets (5.3%), alongside an 18.3% surge in e-commerce [1][2] Sales Performance - Traffic trends remained robust, with worldwide visits up approximately 4% and U.S. traffic increasing by 4.3%, indicating continued strength in food, sundries, and nonfood items [2] - The sales growth was slightly impacted by gasoline price deflation, which trimmed about 60 basis points from reported sales [4] Analyst Ratings and Forecasts - Raymond James reaffirmed an Outperform rating for Costco ahead of its fiscal fourth-quarter earnings release, citing the company's scale, supply-chain efficiency, and loyal membership base as advantages in managing tariff and inflation risks [3][5] - Analysts adjusted the fourth-quarter EPS estimate to $5.83 from $5.90, while maintaining the fiscal year 2026 EPS forecast at $20.20 [3][4] Valuation and Market Position - Costco's stock trades at approximately 52 times forward earnings, significantly above its three-year median multiple of 38, with a price forecast set at $1,070 based on an EPS estimate of $21.80 for fiscal year 2027 [5][6] - The company's consistent market share gains and durable earnings growth support its premium valuation in the market [6]