Walmart Inc. (WMT)

Walmart Inc. (WMT) stock has shown a significant increase of 35.05% from July 22, 2024, to July 18, 2025. Key events impacting Walmart's stock include a 3-for-1 forward stock split on February 23, 2024. In December 2024, Walmart faced a lawsuit by the CFPB concerning its Spark Driver program, and Walton Family Holdings Trust executed substantial stock sales. Positive earnings reports and strategic initiatives have been well-received. Walmart has cut prices on low-cost goods, and Barclays analysts have rated Walmart as "Overweight." Affirm lost its partnership with Walmart, which analysts believe may affect Affirm's fiscal 2026 outlook.

Demand for Walmart's products and services is significantly influenced by seasonal trends and holiday shifts. Major holiday periods like Black Friday lead to increased demand. Consumer demand shifts quarterly, impacting product selection and pricing strategies. Sales of fresh produce are particularly volatile and reflect seasonal trends. There is increased demand for items like back-to-school supplies and summer gear during their respective seasons. Walmart prepares for seasonal peaks by stocking inventory in advance, optimizing product listings, and launching time-sensitive promotions.

Walmart Inc. is a multinational retail corporation operating hypermarkets, discount department stores, and grocery stores. Headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas, it is the world's largest retailer by revenue and the largest private employer globally. Walmart's business strategy is based on the "Everyday Low Prices" model, offering a wide variety of merchandise at competitive prices. Its product portfolio includes groceries, health and wellness, technology, apparel, and home goods. Walmart has expanded its e-commerce platforms, including Walmart.com and the Walmart app, and offers services like fuel, financial services, and value-added services.

As of fiscal year 2024, Walmart operates over 10,750 stores and clubs across 19 countries, in addition to its e-commerce websites. The United States is its largest market, generating 72.3% of its total revenue as of 2023, but Walmart has a significant international presence. Key international growth markets include Mexico, China, and India. The company's global operations are supported by a robust supply chain and logistics network, including 162 distribution facilities in the U.S. and 184 internationally as of January 2025.

In the past year, Walmart's brand reputation has been impacted by controversies related to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies and allegations of racial discrimination. Walmart faced controversy after cutting several DEI initiatives, including ceasing participation in the Human Rights Campaign survey and discontinuing racial equity training. Walmart was also involved in controversies concerning racial discrimination and bias, facing allegations from Black employees and a Congressional investigation finding racial inequities in employment outcomes.

Walmart Inc. is a publicly traded company, but the Walton family maintains significant control, owning about 45% of the company. Major institutional owners include Vanguard Group Inc., BlackRock, Inc., and State Street Corp. Individual shareholders include Jim C. Walton, Alice L. Walton, and S. Robson Walton.