Walmart: A Retail Success Story
Walmart (WMT 0.19%) has risen from modest beginnings in rural Arkansas to grow into one of the world's most successful retailers. Although its rapid growth days are likely behind it, the company has continued to earn significant returns for investors as it leverages its massive U.S. footprint and online presence to cement its leadership.
However, Walmart's stock has become increasingly expensive, and it continues to face intense competition from other stores and retailers as it works to grow its international presence. Amid those headwinds, can this retail stock still deliver for investors?
Where Walmart Stands Today
At first glance, the Walmart growth story may have appeared to run its course. At a market cap of more than $815 billion, it is unlikely to experience the growth levels of its early days.
But in other ways, it looks poised for continued success. Approximately 90% of U.S. consumers live within 10 miles of a Walmart location, and outside of Costco, its Sam's Club division is the most successful warehouse retailer in the U.S.
Even as many of its expansion efforts outside of North America sputtered, Walmart has found success in online retailing as more international consumers warm to its approach of low prices. Walmart has expanded its e-commerce reach through strategic acquisitions and improved logistics infrastructure.
The Dividend: A Steady Income Stream
Investors should not ignore Walmart's dividend. At $0.94 per share in annual payments, the current dividend yield is a modest 0.9%.
Nonetheless, longer-term returns are much more impressive. Its 52 years of consecutive annual payout hikes are just above the 50-year minimum threshold for Dividend King status.
Such track records tend to make dividends a significant portion of returns. For example, $1,000 invested in Walmart stock 10 years ago yields total returns exceeding $5,800, with around $1,000 coming from dividend payments. That means those investors had their $1,000 returned to them without selling a single share.
Continued Financial Growth
There's no guarantee that Walmart stock will match that growth 10 years from now, and its results are unlikely to excite investors. Still, its continued improvement could put it on track for market-beating returns.
In the first half of fiscal 2026 (ended July 31), Walmart reported revenue of $343 billion, a 4% increase from year-ago levels. Although its operating income dropped slightly, the company earned more than $2.1 billion from investment gains, taking the net income for the first two quarters of the fiscal year to $11.5 billion, up 20% from one year ago.
Its financials also appear to be on track for gradual improvement, as Walmart has raised its fiscal third quarter outlook. It now expects net sales, which account for nearly all of its revenue, to rise between 3.75% and 4.75% annually.
Valuation: A Point of Contention
The problem may come with its valuation. At a 39 P/E ratio, its stock is more expensive than Amazon at 35 times earnings and its troubled competitor Target at a 10 P/E ratio. That could lead investors to question whether it is worth such a cost. Investors should also consider the broader market dynamics and shifts in consumer behavior.
Should Investors Buy Walmart Stock?
Walmart could continue beating the market, but investors may be better off putting money to work elsewhere. Remember, this is not investment advice, and thorough research is essential.
Walmart continues to grow despite turning into a mature company, and its improved success and e-commerce-focused strategy could drive meaningful revenue increases for years. But 4% revenue growth is not significantly above inflation plus the natural growth of the population. Also, while Walmart did grow its profits in recent quarters, rising operating expenses are a concern, and its investments may or may not continue to increase in value.
Amid such conditions, investors might pass on Walmart's 39 P/E ratio and instead look to potentially higher returns in Amazon or even take a chance on Target since its P/E ratio is so low. However, each of these companies carries its own set of risks and challenges.
Ultimately, Walmart's long-term track record and rising dividend make it an excellent holding, but now is probably not a great time to add shares. Consider your investment goals and risk tolerance before making any investment decisions.
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