Core Viewpoint - Analysts suggest that Home Depot (HD.US) stockholders can expect continued growth in dividends, with the quarterly dividend currently at $2.30 per share, a 53% increase from $1.50 in 2020 [1] Dividend Growth - Home Depot has consistently increased its dividends, with the current dividend yield at 2.18% as of September 12 [1] - The payout ratio stands at approximately 62%, indicating room for future dividend growth [1] Sales Performance - Despite a challenging economic environment leading to a slowdown in consumer spending, Home Depot anticipates a 1% growth in comparable sales for the fiscal year ending in January [1] Investment Appeal - In addition to robust dividend growth, Home Depot's strong brand and solid financial position make it an attractive long-term investment option [1]

Group 1 - President Trump pressured Walmart to absorb tariff costs without raising prices [1] - Target Corporation lowered its full-year sales forecast after a weak quarterly performance, downplaying plans for price increases related to tariffs [1][3] - Target's comparable sales fell by 3.8% in the quarter ending May 3, exceeding analyst expectations [3] Group 2 - Home improvement retailers Lowe's and Home Depot are exploring strategies to manage tariff costs without comprehensive price increases [3] - Home Depot indicated that while there won't be overall price hikes, some individual product prices may adjust, and certain items might disappear from shelves [3] - Lowe's executives emphasized maintaining price competitiveness and minimizing consumer impact [3] Group 3 - Nike avoided mentioning tariffs but announced price increases on various footwear and apparel products, with specific increases of $5 for shoes priced between $100 and $150, and $10 for shoes over $150 [5] - Major U.S. retailers are facing dual challenges of high costs from tariffs and the need to avoid alienating consumers or the White House [5] Group 4 - A recent Reuters survey indicated that economists believe U.S. government policies have negatively impacted the economy, with over 55% stating it caused severe damage [6] - Current tariff rates are significantly higher than at the beginning of the year, contributing to high policy uncertainty and recession risks [6] - Economists expect U.S. inflation to remain above the Federal Reserve's 2% target at least until 2027 [6]