ROST

Ross Stores (ROST) experienced several positive stock-impacting events in the past six months. In May 2026, Q1 fiscal 2026 earnings significantly exceeded guidance, with total sales up 21%, comparable store sales up 17%, and EPS growing 37% to $2.02, leading to a raised fiscal 2026 outlook. In August 2026, Q2 fiscal 2026 earnings continued strong performance with a 13% increase in total sales and a 10% rise in comparable store sales, driven by customer traffic, and operating profits reached $1.1 billion, including $253 million from IEEPA tariff refunds, boosting EPS to $2.66 and further increasing fiscal 2026 EPS projections, causing the stock to rise. The company announced the grand opening of 47 new stores in June and July 2026 and increased its annual store opening plan to approximately 115 new locations for fiscal 2026, signaling confidence in future growth. Ross Stores declared regular quarterly cash dividends of $0.445 per common share payable in June and September 2026 and repurchased 1.5 million shares for $319 million in Q1 and 1.4 million shares for $319 million in Q2 fiscal 2026, demonstrating a commitment to returning value to shareholders. In September 2026, Ross Stores announced changes to its Board of Directors, with two new members elected effective October 1, 2026.