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U.S. retail giant Walmart raised its full-year forecast and reported better-than-expected first-quarter results, driven by easing inflation and increased demand for essential and discretionary products such as apparel and electronics.
Walmart’s shares were up 6% in premarket trading, and if these gains are held, they could reach a record high.
Total U.S. comparable sales, excluding fuel, increased by 3.9% for the quarter ended April 30. This surpassed analysts’ expectations of 3.15% growth, according to LSEG. The rise in sales was driven by both an increase in average transactions and unit sales.
Walmart reported adjusted earnings per share of 60 cents, significantly beating the average forecast of 52 cents. Total revenue reached $161.51 billion, also topping estimates.
The company now expects annual consolidated net sales to rise at the high end or slightly above its previous forecast of 3% to 4% growth. Adjusted profit per share is projected at the high end or slightly above the prior estimate of $2.23 to $2.37.
Walmart’s robust performance as the largest retailer in the nation could alleviate some investor concerns about a potential slowdown in U.S. consumer spending.
Despite prolonged inflationary pressures, Americans have maintained spending levels, which bodes well for the retail sector.
However, concerns about the overall economic climate remain, particularly with higher mortgage rates and car insurance premiums affecting domestic demand.
U.S. consumer prices rose less than expected in April, possibly easing inflationary pressures.
While higher prices have been a challenge, Walmart’s results indicate that consumers are still willing to spend, particularly on essential goods and increasingly on discretionary items, as inflation eases.
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