Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST)

As of June 27, 2025, Costco's stock price was $985.14, reflecting a 15.90% increase over the past year, but it was down 6.33% over the past 30 days. In January 2024, the stock advanced following a strong holiday shopping season report. In March 2025, the company reported an 8.6% increase in net sales, partly attributed to an extra shopping day due to the Easter calendar shift. On April 16, 2025, Costco announced an increase in its quarterly cash dividend. The company reported its Third Quarter and Year-To-Date Operating Results for Fiscal 2025 on May 29, 2025, and May Sales Results on June 4, 2025. Analysts have maintained positive outlooks, with Truist Securities raising its price target to $1042 in May 2025.

Costco's products and services exhibit demand seasonality, with increased sales and earnings during specific periods. Net sales spike during the winter holiday season, particularly in the September and November quarters, corresponding to heightened consumer demand. This seasonal pattern is a consistent trend in Costco's financial performance.

Costco Wholesale Corporation operates membership-only warehouse clubs and e-commerce websites. The company offers bulk quantities of merchandise at discounted prices to members who pay an annual fee. Costco operates within the Retail Trade sector, offering a wide range of products, including groceries, electronics, and apparel. It also operates ancillary businesses like gas stations and optical laboratories. A significant portion of its merchandise is sold under the Kirkland Signature private-label brand.

As of May 2025, Costco operates 905 warehouses worldwide. In North America, it has 624 warehouses in the United States (including Puerto Rico), 109 in Canada, and 41 in Mexico. In Asia, it operates 37 warehouses in Japan, 19 in South Korea, 14 in Taiwan, and 7 in China. In Europe, Costco has 29 warehouses in the United Kingdom, 5 in Spain, 2 in France, and 1 each in Iceland and Sweden. In Oceania, it has 15 warehouses in Australia and 1 in New Zealand.

Costco has a strong brand reputation built on value, quality, and customer loyalty. It is recognized as an excellent employer with competitive wages and benefits, contributing to high employee satisfaction. The company has received accolades for ethical practices and social impact, including recognition from Forbes. High membership renewal rates indicate strong brand and customer satisfaction, with rates above 90% in the U.S. and Canada in fiscal year 2024. No significant negative events impacting Costco's brand reputation were identified.

Costco Wholesale Corporation is predominantly owned by institutional investors, holding over 70% of the company's shares. The largest institutional shareholders include The Vanguard Group, BlackRock, and State Street Corporation. Individual insider ownership is relatively small, accounting for less than 1% of shares, with key individual shareholders including current and former executives and directors.