Target Corporation (TGT)

Target's stock price has experienced a significant decline over the past year. Key events impacting Target's stock price in the past six months include layoffs and corporate restructuring, slumping sales and economic conditions, Q1 fiscal 2025 earnings, and seasonal demand and supply chain gains. Target announced plans to cut approximately 1,800 corporate roles and eliminate 800 open positions to streamline operations. The company has reported declining or weak comparable sales growth for 11 consecutive quarters due to shifting buying patterns and economic conditions. Target missed on EPS in Q1 fiscal 2025, with net sales dipping slightly, although digital comparable sales grew. Target's stock closed higher on September 30, 2025, following reports of renewed consumer demand for seasonal merchandise and improved inventory management.

Demand for Target's products and services exhibits seasonality, which is typical for general merchandise and apparel retailers. Consumers tend to prioritize essential items during periods of economic uncertainty. However, Target also experiences strong performance during specific seasonal moments, such as Valentine's Day and Easter. The company's stock performance in September 2025 saw a surge, attributed to renewed consumer demand for seasonal merchandise.

Target Corporation is an American retail corporation headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and is the seventh-largest retailer in the United States. Target focuses on providing a gratifying in-store shopping experience and a wide assortment of trendy apparel, home goods, and household essentials at competitive prices. The company's portfolio includes discount outlets, moderate-priced promotional establishments, and traditional department stores, catering to a broad demographic, and has invested significantly in its online business. Major products offered by Target include apparel, beauty and personal care items, food and beverage, electronics, home goods, and household essentials. Target also sells merchandise through exclusive design partnerships and shop-in-shop experiences with brands like Apple, Disney, and Ulta Beauty.

Target Corporation primarily operates in the United States, with nearly 2,000 stores across all 50 states and the District of Columbia as of 2025. Over 75% of the U.S. population lives within 10 miles of a Target store. The company's vast footprint is concentrated in urban and suburban markets, aiming to appeal to a more affluent consumer base. Target also operates 66 supply chain facilities and 29 office locations globally.

In the past year, Target's brand reputation has been significantly impacted by its retreat on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. This decision angered supporters of DEI policies, leading to boycotts and a measurable decline in foot traffic to many stores. This controversy, alongside slumping sales, has contributed to a challenging year for the retailer.

Target Corporation's ownership structure is a mix of institutional, retail, and individual investors. Institutional investors hold a significant majority, with approximately 84% to 86% of the company's shares. Major institutional shareholders include The Vanguard Group, Inc., State Street Corp / State Street Global Advisors, Inc., and BlackRock, Inc. The general public owns approximately 14% to 16% of the company's stock, and insiders own less than 1% of the company.