Core Viewpoint - Costco's stock has significantly outperformed the market in 2026, with a year-to-date increase of approximately 15%, reflecting investor confidence in its consistent growth capabilities in various market conditions [3][4]. Sales Performance - Costco reported a 9.3% year-over-year increase in sales for January, driven by a 7.1% rise in same-store sales, which excludes the effects of gasoline prices and foreign exchange fluctuations [6]. - Adjusted same-store sales growth accelerated to 6.4% year-over-year, up from 6.2% in December, indicating robust sales momentum despite potential weather-related impacts [7]. - Digitally enabled sales, which account for 10% of overall revenue, surged by 33.1% year-over-year in January, a significant increase from 18.3% growth in December, showcasing the effectiveness of Costco's digital engagement strategies [8][9]. Historical Sales Growth - Sales growth has remained strong over the past few years, with fiscal year sales increasing by 7%, 5%, and 8% in 2023, 2024, and 2025, respectively, despite challenging comparisons to the high growth rates during the COVID-19 pandemic [10]. Valuation Concerns - Despite Costco's strong business performance, concerns about its current valuation arise, with a price-to-earnings ratio of 53, which implies expectations of 15% annual earnings-per-share growth, while actual growth was only 10% in fiscal 2025 [11][12][13]. - The high valuation presents a risk of potential re-rating, suggesting that even a well-performing business can face valuation risks if the stock price is deemed excessive [12].

From value-packed bulk items to $1.50 hot dogs, Costco is renowned for its focus on savings. The warehouse giant, however, offers far more than just its in-store products. From travel and automotive programs to remodeling and cleaning services, here are some lesser-known benefits that members may be missing. Costco TravelCostco Travel offers a variety of trips, including international destinations, theme parks, cruises and other excursions. Packages typically include accommodations, such as hotels and resor ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net income for Q1 2026 was $2.001 billion, or $4.50 per diluted share, up from $1.798 billion, or $4.04 per diluted share in Q1 2025, reflecting a growth of 11.3% [12] - Net sales increased by 8.2% to $65.98 billion from $60.99 billion in the same quarter last year [13] - Comparable sales grew by 6.4%, with digital sales showing a significant increase of 20.5% [13][24] - Membership fee income rose to $1.329 billion, a 14% increase year over year [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh sales were up mid to high single digits, with double-digit growth in meat categories [20] - Non-foods had comparable sales in the mid-single digits, with strong performance in health and beauty, gold jewelry, and small appliances [21] - Pharmacy scripts filled grew in the mid-teens, contributing to improved margins [9][10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Traffic increased by 3.1% worldwide, and average transaction size rose by 3.2% [13] - The U.S. and Canada renewal rate was 92.2%, with a slight decline in overall renewal rates due to an increase in online memberships [16][52] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to open 30-plus new warehouses annually in the future, with a total of 921 warehouses worldwide [4][5] - Digital initiatives focus on enhancing member experience and driving sales through technology, including AI integration in inventory management [9][10][45] - The company aims to maintain its reputation for low prices while investing in technology and member engagement [31][42] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in consistent sales growth and member engagement despite some monthly fluctuations [34][35] - The company is optimistic about future warehouse openings and market expansion, particularly in international markets [49][58] - Inflation trends are expected to remain stable, with mixed impacts across different product categories [26][64] Other Important Information - Capital expenditures for Q1 were approximately $1.53 billion, with an estimated total of $6.5 billion for the fiscal year [19][20] - The company reported record sales in its food court and e-commerce business during the holiday season [20][25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Has Costco embraced technology and different retail modes more under current management? - Management confirmed a focus on technology and operational efficiency, emphasizing that maintaining low prices remains a priority [30][31] Question: Are there concerns about traffic and the need to invest in pricing? - Management noted consistent member behavior and sales patterns, indicating no immediate concerns about traffic [32][35] Question: What is the outlook for warehouse openings and membership strategies? - Management indicated a balanced approach to openings, focusing on both established and new markets [39][40] Question: How is Costco leveraging digital engagement and logistics? - Management highlighted significant growth in digital traffic and ongoing enhancements to the digital experience for members [55] Question: What are the dynamics affecting SG&A leverage? - Management discussed headwinds from healthcare costs and investments in employee agreements impacting productivity [60][62] Question: How is inflation impacting sales and pricing strategies? - Management confirmed mixed inflation impacts across categories, with a focus on maintaining value for members [64][65]