Walmart Inc. (NASDAQ:WMT) is the world's largest brick-and-mortar retailer, and attention is sharpening ahead of its next quarterly earnings report, due before the market opens Thursday. Investors are watching whether results could lift the stock to a fresh record, as inflation pushes more shoppers toward value-focused chains.
At a Glance
- Walmart reports first-quarter earnings Thursday morning, before the opening bell.
- Options pricing implies a potential swing of roughly 5% by week's end.
- Analysts widely favor the stock, with 10 of 11 tracked ratings at "buy."
- Revenue is projected near $174.94 billion, up almost 6% year-over-year.
| Price | 117.18 USD |
|---|---|
| Day change | -0.95 (-0.8%) |
| 52-week range | 112.73 – 135.16 |
| Market cap | $932.53B |
| P/E ratio | 41.12 |
| EPS (ttm) | 2.85 |
| Dividend yield | 0.84% |
| RSI (14) | 38.35 |
| Volume | 36,526,701 |
The Setup Heading Into Earnings
Walmart operates a sprawling network of stores and a growing e-commerce business, positioning it as a barometer for how American consumers are managing their household budgets. The retailer is scheduled to deliver its latest quarterly figures before Thursday's session opens, a release some market participants believe could nudge shares toward new highs in the days that follow.
The quarter marks the first full period under new Chief Executive John Furner, who stepped into the role in February. Thursday's earnings call offers Furner a platform to outline his strategy and priorities for the company to investors and analysts.
Based on current options pricing, traders are positioning for a potential move of about 5% by the close of the week. A swing of that magnitude from Monday's close could carry shares above $139, eclipsing their February record, while the lower boundary would push them beneath $127, surrendering part of their recent advance.
The stock has climbed roughly 20% since the start of the year, supported by investor confidence that Walmart can capture additional market share as elevated inflation pressures the finances of many shoppers.
What the Numbers Say
As of June 14, 2026, Walmart shares were quoted at 0.0 USD, unchanged at +0.0% on the day. The stock carries a market capitalization of 932.53 billion USD and has traded within a 52-week range of 112.73 to 135.16. The relative strength index (RSI) stands at 38.35, a reading that sits below the neutral midpoint and leans toward the lower, potentially oversold end of the scale rather than signaling overbought momentum.
On the bull side, the consensus among analysts is broadly constructive. Of the 11 analysts with current ratings, 10 recommend buying the stock and one is neutral, with an average price target just above $140 implying roughly 5% upside from Monday's close. Oppenheimer analysts have signaled they anticipate a solid first quarter, and Morgan Stanley analysts noted Walmart is positioned to capitalize on value-seeking shoppers by leaning on its strengths in pricing, convenience and e-commerce leadership.
On the bear side, the same inflation backdrop carries risk. Oppenheimer expects Walmart may keep its full-year forecasts unchanged, partly because fuel costs could stay elevated for much of the year. Higher fuel and operating expenses could weigh on margins, and an RSI in the high 30s reflects recent softness in momentum. A failure to clear the February record, or cautious forward guidance, could test the recent rally.
Expectations for the Quarter
Industry estimates point to first-quarter revenue of $174.94 billion, an increase of nearly 6% from a year earlier, alongside adjusted earnings per share of 66 cents, up 5 cents year-over-year. Comparable store sales are projected to have grown 3.8%, while e-commerce sales are expected to have risen about 22%, reflecting the company's ongoing push to expand online.
| Metric | Estimate | Year-over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Revenue | $174.94 billion | Up ~6% |
| Adjusted EPS | 66 cents | Up 5 cents |
| Comparable store sales | 3.8% growth | — |
| E-commerce sales | ~22% growth | — |
Why It Matters to Investors
Results from Walmart, along with several other retailers reporting this week, could offer a window into how Americans are coping with inflation and rising fuel prices as the conflict involving Iran continues. As a high-volume seller of essentials, Walmart's commentary on consumer behavior is closely followed for clues about broader spending trends.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Walmart report earnings?
Walmart is scheduled to release its first-quarter results before the market opens on Thursday morning, followed by an earnings call with management.
How much could Walmart's stock move on earnings?
Current options pricing implies a potential swing of about 5% by the end of the week, which could push shares above $139 or below $127 from Monday's close.
What are analysts expecting from Walmart?
Analysts are broadly positive, with 10 of 11 tracked ratings at "buy" and an average price target just above $140. Estimates call for revenue near $174.94 billion and adjusted EPS of 66 cents.
Who is Walmart's CEO?
John Furner took over as chief executive in February, and this quarter is the first reported under his leadership.
Outlook
Walmart enters its earnings report with strong analyst support, a year-to-date gain near 20% and the prospect of a new record, balanced against margin pressure from elevated fuel costs and a momentum reading that has cooled. Thursday's results and Furner's guidance will help clarify whether value-seeking shoppers can sustain the stock's recent strength.
This article is general information only and does not constitute investment or financial advice.
