economy
February 19, 2026
Walmart reports strong holiday growth, but earnings outlook falls short of estimates
It marks the first earnings report since new Walmart CEO John Furner took over in early February.
TL;DR
- Walmart's holiday-quarter sales rose nearly 6%, exceeding expectations.
- E-commerce, advertising, and third-party marketplace boosted business.
- Full-year earnings outlook of $2.75-$2.85 per share missed Wall Street's $2.96 expectation.
- Speedy deliveries from stores are attracting more shoppers, including higher-income households.
- Inflation in the U.S. was just above 1% in the fourth quarter.
- U.S. comparable sales increased 4.6%, and Sam's Club comparable sales rose 4%.
- U.S. e-commerce sales grew 27%, accounting for a record 23% of total sales.
- Walmart announced a new $30 billion share repurchase authorization.
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