Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (ARCA: VDC)

에 대한 최신 뉴스 Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (ARCA:VDC)

Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF

Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF - DNQ

Consumer Defensive

Consumer Cyclical

Other

Healthcare

Basic Materials

Industrials

The fund employs an indexing investment approach designed to track the performance of the MSCI US Investable Market Index/Consumer Staples 25/50, an index made up of stocks of large, mid-size, and small U.S. companies within the consumer staples sector, as classified under the Global Industry Classification Standard. The Advisor attempts to replicate the target index by seeking to invest all, or substantially all, of its assets in the stocks that make up the index, in order to hold each stock in approximately the same proportion as its weighting in the index. The fund is non-diversified.

Procter & Gamble Company

Costco Wholesale Corp.

Walmart, Inc.

Coca Cola Co.

Pepsico Inc.

Philip Morris International Inc.

Mondelez International Inc. Class A

Altria Group Inc.

Colgate-Palmolive Co

Target Corp.

Analyst Color

Equities

News

Markets

ETFs

AVGO

AXON

SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust

NVDA

Fidelity NASDAQmposite Index Fund ETF-Tracking NASDAQmposite Index

ONEQ

PLTR

RSPF

TRGP

USDU

PowerShares DB US Dollar Index Bullish Fund

XLRE

2024년은 이정표를 세운 한 해였다. 현재의 강세장은 거의 26개월이 지났지만 흔들림 없는 상승세를 보이고 있다. 이는 2022년 10월 중순의 저점 대비 70% 이상 상승한 수치다. 한 해를 마무리하며 &#39;산타 랠리&#39;의 가능성을 염두에 두고 2024년의 중요한 시점을 정리해 보려고 한다.

2024년 S&amp;P 500 지수는 57회 사상 최고치 경신, 나스닥 급등의 30%는 &#39;매그 7&#39; 그룹이 주도

Large Cap

Reiteration

Analyst Ratings

Trading Ideas

FSTA

JP 모건의 애널리스트인 크리스토퍼 호버스(Christopher Horvers)는 월마트(NYSE:WMT)의 화요일 발표된 2025 회계연도 3분기 실적에 대해 강한 긍정적인 의견을 표현했다.

월마트의 3분기 실적은 미래 성장을 촉진하는 구조적 이익을 증명: 분석가

Earnings

Guidance

Retail Sales

BlackRock ETF Trust BlackRock Future U.S. Themes ETF

BTHM

First Trust Strategic Value Index Fund for Credit Suisse US Value Index

IEDI

Exchange Listed Funds Trust LG QRAFT AI-Powered U.S. Large Cap Core ETF

LQAI

MDCP

Simplify Exchange Traded Funds Simplify Next Intangible Value Index ETF

NXTV

ROST

RSPD

Merrill Lynch Retail HOLDRS Trust due 12/31/41

텔시 어드바이저리 그룹(Tesley Advisory Group)의 분석가들에 따르면 타깃 코퍼레이션(NYSE:TGT)과 로스 스토어스(NYSE:ROST)는 거시적인 불확실성에도 불구하고 소비자들이 계속 지출함에 따라 2분기에 더 나은 매출을 기록할 것이라고 한다.

타깃, 로스는 소비자의 탄력성을 유지하면서 더 높은 매출을 올릴 것으로 예상: 분석가들

The year of milestones, 2024, has seen an unperturbed rise in the current bull market, which is nearly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42430296/carson-researchs-50-year-study-suggests-that-the-26-months-old-bull-market-is-far-from-over">26 months</a> old. It is higher by more than 70% from the mid-October 2022 lows. As we wrap up the year with the possibility of a &#8216;Santa Rally,&#8217; let&#8217;s recap 2024&#8217;s landmark junctures.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Major U.S. Benchmarks Scale Fresh Records</h3>
The S&amp;P 500 Index has made 57 new all-time highs this year, hitting the last one on Dec. 6, 2024. Also, &#8220;2024 would go down as the best election year return ever,&#8221; said Ryan Detrick, the chief market strategist at Carson Research in a note.
&#8220;Going back 50 years, we found five other bull markets that had lasted at least this long and the shortest any of them lasted was five total years. Think of it like a cruise ship — once it gets moving, it can be quite hard to stop,&#8221; added Detrick
While the S&amp;P 500 index was up 25.96% on a year-to-date basis as of Dec. 23 close, the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) rose by 25.82% in the same period.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average index, on the other hand, hit a record eight 1,000-point milestones this year. It started the year around the 37,000 level and breached the 45,000 level at the beginning of December. It took only seven trading days for the index to go from 44,000 to 45,000, the second fastest 1,000-point milestone ever. Following that the index also saw one of its longest 10-day losing streak, the first ever since 1974.
Dow was up 13.77% year-to-date as of the Dec. 23 close, whereas the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) gained 13.74% in the same period.
The Nasdaq 100 index which includes all the &#8216;magnificent seven&#8217; stocks, unlike Dow, rose 29.98% year-to-date as Dec. 23 close. The ETF tracking the index, Fidelity NASDAQ Composite Index ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONEQ#NASDAQ">ONEQ</a>) rose by 33.85% in the same period. Whereas, the Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) rose by 29.88% in 2024.
The smallcap index Russell 2000 was up 11.16% over the year, while iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) was up 10.97% in the same period as of the Dec. 23 close.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021350/CHARt-1-INDICES-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-705432" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021350/CHARt-1-INDICES-1024x576.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021350/CHARt-1-INDICES-300x169.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021350/CHARt-1-INDICES-768x432.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021350/CHARt-1-INDICES-1536x864.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021350/CHARt-1-INDICES.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42430296/carson-researchs-50-year-study-suggests-that-the-26-months-old-bull-market-is-far-from-over">Is The 26-Month Bull Market Over? Here Is What Carson Research&#8217;s 50-Year Old Study Tells Us</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">U.S. Market Trumps The World</h3>
Among the developed economies, the S&amp;P 500 remains the best index with a 25.96% gain on a year-to-date basis, outperforming all the other developed market indices.
While the <a href="https://x.com/RyanDetrick/status/1871317802306707882">first </a>year of a new president&#8217;s term has usually been strong since 1897, the returns during year one of a second term haven&#8217;t been very good overall, said Detrick.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Returns during year one of a second term haven&#39;t been very good overall, but way better lately. Down 5 in a row, but now up 4 in a row. &#x1f914; <a href="https://t.co/aUrCbf22Gw">pic.twitter.com/aUrCbf22Gw</a>
&mdash; Ryan Detrick, CMT (@RyanDetrick) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanDetrick/status/1871320275129967103?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Developed Markets</td>
<td>Indices</td>
<td>YTD Performance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>United States</td>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>25.96%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Germany</td>
<td>DAX</td>
<td>18.36%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Japan</td>
<td>Nikkei 225</td>
<td>17.27%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hong Kong</td>
<td>Hang Seng</td>
<td>19.71%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Spain</td>
<td>IBEX 35</td>
<td>12.31%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>United Kingdom</td>
<td>FTSE 100</td>
<td>4.94%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Switzerland</td>
<td>Swiss Market</td>
<td>2.85%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>France</td>
<td>CAC 40</td>
<td>-3.43%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(As Of Dec. 23 Close)</figcaption></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Communication, Consumer Discretionary, And Technology Lead Gains In 2024</h3>
Tracking the exchange-traded funds that track the major sectors in the U.S. market, communication services emerged as the top sector for the year, followed by consumer discretionary and technology. The information technology sector has the highest weight of 31.3% in the S&amp;P 500, followed by financials a t13.9%.
BlackRock said that they see technology companies&#8217; earnings performing well in 2025. &#8220;We are overweight as the AI theme and earnings growth broaden. Valuations for AI beneficiaries are supported by tech companies delivering on earnings.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cyclical Sectors</td>
<td>ETFs</td>
<td>YTD Performance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Communication Services</td>
<td>Communication Services Select SPDR ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLC#NYSE">XLC</a>)</td>
<td>35.97%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Consumer Discretionary</td>
<td>Vanguard Consumer Discretionary ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VCR#NYSE">VCR</a>)</td>
<td>27.21%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Technology</td>
<td>Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>)</td>
<td>27.01%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Financials</td>
<td>Invesco S&amp;P 500 Equal Weight Financial ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RSPF#NYSE">RSPF</a>)</td>
<td>23.48%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Industrials</td>
<td>Vanguard Industrials ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VIS#NYSE">VIS</a>)</td>
<td>17.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Real Estate</td>
<td>Real Estate Select Sector SPDR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLRE#NYSE">XLRE</a>)</td>
<td>0.27%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Materials</td>
<td>Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (ARC: XLB)</td>
<td>-0.37%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(As Of Dec. 23 Close)</figcaption></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021831/Chart-2.1-cyclical-sectors-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-705439" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021831/Chart-2.1-cyclical-sectors-1024x576.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021831/Chart-2.1-cyclical-sectors-300x169.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021831/Chart-2.1-cyclical-sectors-768x432.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021831/Chart-2.1-cyclical-sectors-1536x864.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021831/Chart-2.1-cyclical-sectors.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42383725/trump-administrations-deregulation-efforts-to-lift-energy-oil-and-gas-sectors-ai-frenzy-to-aid-faang-stocks-and-nvidia-says-fintech-insider">Trump&#8217;s Deregulation Efforts To Benefit Energy, Oil And Gas Sectors, While AI Frenzy Will Boost FAANG Stocks And Nvidia, Says Fintech Insider</a>
Among the defensive sectors, utilities emerged as a winner, whereas energy was an underperformer. Consumer staples, energy, and utilities take up 5.7%, 3.4%, and 2.5% weight, respectively in the S&amp;P 500 index.
As per Morgan Stanley, the energy sector faces a divided future. Trump's deregulation could benefit traditional energy, but the outlook for oil is uncertain due to potential oversupply and weak global demand, especially from China. In contrast, natural gas may see growth from strong European demand and increased domestic use for electrification and AI-powered data centers. The clean energy sector could face challenges, if Trump rollbacks Biden's 2022 Inflation Reduction Act tax credits. However, a full repeal seems unlikely due to the benefits for Republican states.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Defensive Sectors</td>
<td>ETFs</td>
<td>YTD Performance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Utilities</td>
<td>Vanguard Utilities ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VPU#NYSE">VPU</a>)</td>
<td>18.23%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Consumer Staples</td>
<td>Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>)</td>
<td>10.04%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Healthcare</td>
<td>Vanguard Health Care ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VHT#NYSE">VHT</a>)</td>
<td>0.63%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Energy</td>
<td>The Energy Select Sector SPDR ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>)</td>
<td>-0.96%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(As Of Dec. 23 Close)</figcaption></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022041/Chart-2.2-defensive-sectors-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-705442" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022041/Chart-2.2-defensive-sectors-1024x576.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022041/Chart-2.2-defensive-sectors-300x169.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022041/Chart-2.2-defensive-sectors-768x432.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022041/Chart-2.2-defensive-sectors-1536x864.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022041/Chart-2.2-defensive-sectors.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Top S&amp;P 500 Performers In 2024</h3>
Palantir was the top performer within the S&amp;P 500 index this year, as it zoomed 386.67% year-to-date, as of Dec. 23 close. Vistra and Nvidia followed Palantir to advance 269.82% and 189.95% in the same period.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500 Stocks</td>
<td>YTD Performance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>)</td>
<td>386.67%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vistra Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VST#NYSE">VST</a>)</td>
<td>269.82%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)</td>
<td>189.95%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GEV#NYSE">GEV</a>)</td>
<td>162.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Axon Enterprise Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXON#NASDAQ">AXON</a>)</td>
<td>148.04%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>United Airlines Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</a>)</td>
<td>144.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>)</td>
<td>114.07%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Pacific Land Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TPL#NYSE">TPL</a>)</td>
<td>113.03%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Targa Resources Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TRGP#NYSE">TRGP</a>)</td>
<td>106.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HWM#NYSE">HWM</a>)</td>
<td>105.73%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(As Of Dec. 23 Close)</figcaption></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022228/Chart-3-top-performers-of-SPY-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-705446" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022228/Chart-3-top-performers-of-SPY-1024x576.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022228/Chart-3-top-performers-of-SPY-300x169.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022228/Chart-3-top-performers-of-SPY-768x432.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022228/Chart-3-top-performers-of-SPY-1536x864.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022228/Chart-3-top-performers-of-SPY.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">U.S. Dollar Surges Over 6% In 2024</h3>
The Dollar index was up 6.72% year-to-date with a 52-week range of 100.1570 to 108.5410 per unit. If the Greenback can hold on to these gains, the currency would leave behind the second-best year since 2015.
The UDS&#8217;s demand has been rising due to the &#8220;Uncertainties arising from expected Trump's policies and hawkish comments from the Fed towards rate cycle,&#8221; said Kunal Sodhani, vice president of the global trading center at Shinhan Bank.
According to Franklin Templeton, &#8220;The Fed easing cycle will be a dominant factor for the USD. The two main comparisons we draw against the Fed cyclically, interest-rate-wise, are emerging markets, and Japan.&#8221;
WisdomTree Bloomberg US Dollar Bullish Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USDU#NYSE">USDU</a>) was up 13.24% on a year-to-date basis, as of Dec. 23 close, where as Invesco DB US Dollar Index Bullish Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UUP#NYSE">UUP</a>) advanced by 7.21% in the same period.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022447/Chart-4-Dollar-ETFs-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-705448" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022447/Chart-4-Dollar-ETFs-1024x576.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022447/Chart-4-Dollar-ETFs-300x169.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022447/Chart-4-Dollar-ETFs-768x432.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022447/Chart-4-Dollar-ETFs-1536x864.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022447/Chart-4-Dollar-ETFs.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

S&P 500 Hits 57 All-Time Highs In Record-Breaking 2024: Magnificent 7 Drive 30% Of Nasdaq's Surge

On Thursday, JP Morgan analyst Christopher Horvers raised the price target on Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COST#NASDAQ">COST</a>) to $1,090 (from $945 prior) while maintaining an Overweight rating following <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/cost/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">November sales results</a>.
The company reported net sales of $21.87 billion for the retail month of November (four weeks ending December 1, 2024), reflecting a 5.6% <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/12/g42326560/costco-wholesale-corporation-reports-november-sales-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">increase from $20.71 billion last year</a>.
For the twelve-week first quarter ending November 24, 2024, net sales reached $60.99 billion, up 7.5% from $56.72 billion last year. Net sales for the first thirteen weeks totaled $66.52 billion, an increase of 7.2% compared to $62.04 billion in the prior year.
E-commerce sales in November were down by an estimated 15 percentage points due to the later timing of Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday this year compared to last year. This shift resulted in a roughly 1.5% decrease in total and comparable sales.
The analyst writes that they continue to believe that COST remains a core holding due to its unmatched value proposition, characterized by 11% gross margins, a loyal customer base with a ~90% renewal rate, and a global growth opportunity of 2%-3% annually.
The analyst adds that this combination is rare in retail and consumer staples, with the potential to double its current store base. The latter is its GICS classification.
The analyst adds that Costco continues to outperform most of retail in terms of share gains and traffic trends, particularly due to its 70% consumable assortment.
For December, the analyst expects core U.S. comps to be +6.7%, Canada to +8.2%, and Other International to +9.0%, resulting in a total company core comp of +7.2%.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) and Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSTA#NYSE">FSTA</a>).
Price Action: COST shares are down 0.49% at $986.06 at the last check Thursday.
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</ul>
Photo by William James Herath on Shutterstock

Price Target

COST

Costco's Combo Of Strong Loyalty, Unmatched Value Is Rare In Retail: Analyst

JP Morgan analyst Christopher Horvers expressed views on Walmart Inc&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) strong <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42060801/walmart-tops-q3-estimates-ecommerce-growth-shines-with-27-lifts-full-year-forecast" rel="noreferrer noopener">third-quarter FY25 results reported today.</a>
Walmart reported sales of $169.6 billion, beating estimates, with adjusted EPS of $0.58 and global eCommerce sales up 27%.
The company raised FY25 guidance for adjusted EPS to $2.42-$2.47 and sales growth to 4.8%-5.1%, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">citing strong U.S. performance</a>.
The analyst writes that, similar to prior quarters, Walmart maintains a prudent forecast despite consistent outperformance.
The analyst adds that strong U.S. and international gross margin trends drive structural profitability improvements, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WMT/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">supporting their Overweight rating.</a>
Horvers says that ongoing share gains and upward revisions strengthen the bullish case despite FX headwinds and limited SG&amp;A leverage.
The analyst writes that FY guidance suggests fourth-quarter net sales growth of 3.4%-4.5% (vs. Street&#8217;s 3.7%), operating income growth of 5.7%-8.5% (vs. Street&#8217;s 8.7%), and EPS of $0.57-$0.62 (vs. Street&#8217;s $0.66).
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) and&nbsp;Fidelity MSCI COnsumer Staples Index ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSTA#NYSE">FSTA</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are up 3.74% at $87.22 at the last check Tuesday.
Image via Shutterstock
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</ul>

Walmart's Q3 Performance Shows Structural Gains Fueling Future Growth: Analyst

Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) shares are trading higher on Tuesday after the company announced&nbsp;third-quarter results&nbsp;and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b42058916/walmart-reports-strong-revenue-growth-of-5-5-with-operating-income-growing-faster-at-8-2" rel="noreferrer noopener">raised its fiscal-2025&nbsp;guidance</a>.
The retailer reported adjusted EPS&nbsp;of&nbsp;58 cents,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">beating the consensus of&nbsp;53 cents</a>.
Sales were&nbsp;$169.59 billion, up&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://corporate.walmart.com/content/dam/corporate/documents/newsroom/2024/11/19/walmart-releases-q3-fy25-earnings/q3-fy25-earnings-release.pdf" rel="noreferrer noopener">5.5</a>% year over year or 6.2% (at constant currency), beating the consensus of&nbsp;$167.72 billion.
The gross margin rate was up 21 bps, aided by improvement in the Walmart U.S.
Operating income was up&nbsp;$0.5 billion, or&nbsp;8.2%, and up 9.8%&nbsp;year over year&nbsp;(at constant currency) on higher gross margins, growth in membership income, and reduced eCommerce losses.
Global eCommerce sales rose&nbsp;27%, driven by store-fulfilled pickup and delivery as well as marketplace growth. Global advertising business grew&nbsp;28%, including&nbsp;26% for Walmart Connect in the U.S.
Walmart U.S same-store sales climbed by&nbsp;5.3%&nbsp;year over year, excluding fuel, aided by strong broad-based growth in merchandise categories and physical and digital channels.
Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42047989/walmart-q3-earnings-preview-will-eps-beat-streak-continue-analysts-says-retailer-should-remain-a-core-holding" rel="noreferrer noopener">Will Walmart&#8217;s Streak Of Earnings Beats Continue Tuesday? Analysts Say Retailer A &#8216;Core Holding&#8217;</a>
At Sam&#8217;s Club, same-store sales rose&nbsp;7.0%&nbsp;year over year, excluding fuel, led by food and health and wellness categories, along with increased transactions and unit volumes.
Doug McMillon, President and CEO, said, &#8220;In the U.S., in-store volumes grew, pickup from store grew faster, and delivery from store grew even faster than that. Our teams are executing and delighting our customers and members with the value and convenience they expect from Walmart.&#8221;
Walmart generated an operating cash flow of&nbsp;$22.9 billion and free cash flow of&nbsp;$6.2 billion&nbsp;in nine months ended October 31, 2024. It ended the quarter with cash and equivalents of&nbsp;$10.0 billion.
Guidance: For FY25, the big box retailer raised its adjusted EPS&nbsp;outlook&nbsp;to&nbsp;$2.42 &#8211; $2.47 (from&nbsp;$2.35 &#8211; $2.43), vs.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener"> the consensus of&nbsp;$2.45</a>.
Walmart boosted FY25 net sales (at constant currency) growth&nbsp;guidance&nbsp;to&nbsp;4.8% &#8211; 5.1% from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40391777" rel="noreferrer noopener">3.75% &#8211; 4.75%&nbsp;earlier</a>.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) and&nbsp;Fidelity MSCI COnsumer Staples Index ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSTA#NYSE">FSTA</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are up 3.59% at $87.10 premarket at the last check Tuesday.
Image by Sundry Photography on Shutterstock
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</ul>

Movers

Walmart Q3 Earnings: Revenue Beat, eCommerce Growth Shines, Issues Bullish Outlook For FY25

Goldman Sachs analyst Bonnie Herzog lowered Procter &amp; Gamble Company&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PG#NYSE">PG</a>) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/pg/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">first-quarter estimates to reflect softer end markets</a>.
Consequently, the analyst cut the price target to $164 (from $165), with a Neutral rating.
The analyst writes that while scanner trends show resilience for the company and continued growth in the U.S., challenges in international markets like the Middle East and China may offset this.
The analyst anticipates no recovery for SK-II until late 2024, when negative sentiment toward Japanese brands begins to ease.
Herzog is lowering first-quarter estimates, expecting organic sales growth of around 2%, which is expected to be mostly neutralized by FX translation headwinds, leading to flat net sales growth for the quarter.
Moreover, the analyst anticipates slight gross margin expansion supporting 4.7% year-over-year EPS growth to $1.91, down from $1.96 earlier.
The analyst says that due to challenges in Procter &amp; Gamble&#8217;s end markets and a slowdown to 2% growth in fourth-quarter, investor expectations have shifted to the lower end of PG&#8217;s FY25 organic sales growth guidance of 3%-5% (vs. GS/consensus estimates of 3.5% and 3.6%).
Coupled with productivity gains, this should yield over 5% EPS CAGR from FY24 to FY27, slightly below the previous 6.5% CAGR, adds the analyst.
Overall, the analyst remains cautious about the stock, especially as PG's organic sales growth has decelerated over the past few quarters while trading at elevated multiples.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;iShares U.S. Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYK#NYSE">IYK</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>)
Price Action: PG shares are down 0.93% at $167.31 at the last check Monday.
Image from Shutterstock
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iShares Trust Dow Jones USnsumer Goods Sector Index Fund

Procter & Gamble Q1 Forecast Cut As Global Challenges Persist, Goldman Sachs Warns

Sam&#8217;s Club, the&nbsp;$86 billion&nbsp;division of&nbsp;Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>), introduced a fresh workforce compensation plan, which boosted pay for close to 100,000 frontline associates and provided guidance for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/09/b40900897/sams-club-reimagines-workforce-compensation-launches-new-plan-focused-on-providing-more-predictabl" rel="noreferrer noopener">longer-term financial futures</a>.
More engaged workers proved productive, offered better service, and were more likely to stay, especially as competition heated up in the retail space.
Sam&#8217;s Club&#8217;s new plan proposes increasing associate hourly wages by 3%—6% based on years of service. The plan sets predictable pay increase milestones.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40902098">Evaluating Walmart Against Peers In Consumer Staples Distribution &amp; Retail Industry</a>
With these new compensation investments, the average hourly rate for Sam&#8217;s Club associates will likely exceed $19, with the potential to earn thousands of dollars annually in bonuses. In the last five years alone, Sam&#8217;s Club raised the average hourly wage by close to 30%.
In July, Walmart Canada raised the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39989702/walmart-canada-boosts-wages-for-40-000-workers-details" rel="noreferrer noopener">hourly wage for</a> close to 40,000 of its store associates amid easing inflation and rising unemployment in Canada. In June, the company announced bonuses for U.S. hourly store workers benefiting 700,000 front-line staff.
Amazon.Com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40792054/amazon-targets-walmarts-grocery-market-with-expanded-prime-discounts" rel="noreferrer noopener">aggressively chasing Walmart&#8217;s</a> U.S. grocery market share by expanding Prime benefits, including discounts on over 3,000 grocery items. Walmart led the U.S. grocery market with a 23.6% market share in 2023, as per&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/1450393/leading-grocery-store-by-market-share-us/#:~:text=U.S.:%20leading%20grocers%202023%2C%20by%20market%20share&amp;text=In%202023%2C%20the%20leading%2011,at%20just%20over%2010%20percent." rel="noreferrer noopener">Statista</a>.
Walmart reported <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/08/40391777/walmart-q2-earnings-e-commerce-and-advertising-businesses-fuel-revenue-and-profit-beat-hikes-annual" rel="noreferrer noopener">second-quarter sales</a> growth of 4.8% to&nbsp;$169.34 billion, beating the analyst consensus of&nbsp;$168.57 billion. At Sam&#8217;s Club, same-store sales rose&nbsp;5.2% year over year, excluding fuel.
Walmart stock is up 46% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWD#NYSE">IWD</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT stock is down 2.53% at $78.52 at last check Tuesday.
Image via Shutterstock

AMZN

Walmart Division Sam's Club Raises Wages For Hourly Associates: A Strategic Move To Stay Ahead In Retail

Target Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) and Ross Stores, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROST#NYSE">ROST</a>) should <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40393307/why-is-target-corporation-stock-gaining-today">post better revenues</a> for the second quarter as consumers continue spending despite macro uncertainties, according to analysts from Tesley Advisory Group.
Analyst Joseph Feldman expects Target&#8217;s second-quarter revenue to improve 2% from a year ago to $25.3 billion when it reports earnings on Wednesday before the market opens. His forecast exceeds FactSet revenue consensus of $25.2 billion.
&#8220;Broadly, we believe consumers are showing resiliency as they continue to search for value and focus on essentials, while selectively spending on discretionary items and responding to innovation and newness,&#8221; Feldman wrote in a note on Target, commenting on shoppers in general.
Target continues to focus on its value-offering by cutting prices while offering private brands in new stores, he said.
Feldman maintains an Outperform rating and a $190 price target on Target shares.
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Analyst Dana Tesley forecasts a 6.9% jump in year-over-year second quarter revenue for Ross Stores to $5.28 billion when it releases its results on Thursday after the market closes. Her expectation exceeds revenue consensus of $5.24 billion.
&#8220;We continue to be encouraged by ROST's string of strong results across the past five quarters, with the business navigating macro challenges relatively well despite outsized pressure on some of its core consumers,&#8221; she wrote in a note.
&#8220;We are encouraged by management's efforts to improve the product mix and drive efficiencies across the business.&#8221;
She maintains a Market Perform and $160 price target on the stock.
Price Action: Target gained 1.67% to close at $144.03 on Friday, while exchange-traded funds that track the stock also advanced.
<ul>
<li>VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) gained 0.61</li>
<li>Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) picked up 0.27%</li>
<li>Simplify Next Intangible Value Index ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NXTV#BATS">NXTV</a>) edged up 0.15%</li>
<li>Federated Hermes U.S. Strategic Dividend ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FDV#NYSE">FDV</a>) went up 0.41%</li>
<li>Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) gained 0.32%</li>
</ul>
Ross Stores slipped 0.27% to close at $147.40 on Friday, while ETFs that follow its shares had mixed results.
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<li>VictoryShares THB Mid Cap ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MDCP#NASDAQ">MDCP</a>) rose 0.52%</li>
<li>BlackRock Future U.S. Themes ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BTHM#NYSE">BTHM</a>) slipped 0.03%</li>
<li>IShares U.S. Consumer Focused ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEDI#BATS">IEDI</a>) moved up 0.24%</li>
<li>LG QRAFT AI-Powered U.S. Large Cap Core ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LQAI#NYSE">LQAI</a>) remained unchanged</li>
<li>Invesco S&amp;P 500 Equal Weight Consumer Discretionary ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RSPD#NYSE">RSPD</a>) rose 0.29%</li>
</ul>
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Target, Ross Stores Expected To Post Higher Revenues As Consumers Stay Resilient: Analysts

Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) shares are trading higher on Thursday after the company announced&nbsp;strong&nbsp;second-quarter 2025 results&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/08/b40390393/walmart-reports-strong-revenue-growth-of-4-8-with-operating-income-growing-faster-at-8-5-adjusted-" rel="noreferrer noopener">and raised full-year&nbsp;guidance</a>.
The retailer reported adjusted EPS&nbsp;of&nbsp;$0.67&nbsp;(+9.8%&nbsp;Y/Y),&nbsp;beating the consensus of&nbsp;$0.64 and sales of&nbsp;$169.34 billion, surpassing the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40391777" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus of&nbsp;$168.57 billion</a>.
Walmart expects&nbsp;third-quarter&nbsp;adjusted EPS of&nbsp;$0.51 to $0.52&nbsp;versus a consensus of&nbsp;$0.55, and its net sales to grow 3.25% &#8211; 4.25% in CC.
JP Morgan analyst Christopher Horvers has an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/wmt/analyst-ratings">Overweight rating on WMT.</a> The analyst anticipates a positive stock price reaction today, given concerns about the consumer market and fears of a slowdown at the end of the second quarter, coupled with strong gross margins exceeding Street expectations in both the U.S. and international markets.  
This assumes management adequately addresses the third-quarter timing shift mentioned, writes the analyst. Horvers adds that the absence of an upgrade to implied fourth-quarter estimates likely reflects caution over consumer trends and uncertainties in the second half due to known headwinds.
The analyst says that the third-quarter guidance accounts for the timing of festive events in the international segment and planned expenses. This includes the impact of FK&#8217;s Big Billion Days events, which frequently shift between the third and fourth quarters (as seen in 2023).
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) and&nbsp;SPDR Select Sector Fund – Consumer Staples (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are up 6.55% at $73.15 at the last check Thursday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo via Shutterstock
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Walmart's Q4 Outlook Clouded by Consumer Spending Concerns: JP Morgan Analyst

Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) Walmart Canada disclosed it raised the hourly <a target="_blank" href="https://www.walmartcanada.ca/news/2024/07/25/walmart-canada-raising-store-associate-wages--investing-in-techn" rel="noreferrer noopener">wage </a>earlier this month for approximately 40,000 store associates to remain competitive in providing attractive compensation in its operating markets.
The wage hike is part of Walmart Canada&#8217;s broader strategy to develop talent, modernize work processes, and strengthen its workplace culture.
In addition to wage increases, Walmart Canada has invested in digital handheld devices for store associates. These devices enhance customer service by allowing associates to quickly locate items and communicate more efficiently.
Walmart Canada&#8217;s compensation package includes an annual incentive bonus, enhanced health and dental benefits, mental health care, and gender affirmation care.
Associates also have access to 24/7 virtual care and employee assistance programs through TELUS Health, as well as a Walmart discount card for 10% savings on groceries and general merchandise.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39729844/how-walmart-is-planning-to-boost-perishables-distribution-read-to-know" rel="noreferrer noopener">How Walmart Is Planning To Boost Perishables Distribution? Read To Know</a>
Through the Live Better U (LBU) educational program, Walmart covers 100% of tuition, books, and course fees for associates and has already benefitted over 3,000 associates.
&#8220;We&#8217;re on a journey of developing our talent, simplifying and modernizing how we work, investing in our teams, and strengthening our culture,&#8221;&nbsp;said Chief People Officer, Walmart Canada, AnnMarie Mercer.
The development follows similar investments made in recent months for U.S. store workers, aimed at retaining more employees, reported Reuters.
In February, Walmart increased the average annual salary and<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36837656/walmarts-store-managers-stand-to-gain-20k-in-stock-annually-exceeding-525k-in-total-compensation" rel="noreferrer noopener"> bonus for U.S. store managers</a>.
Additionally, in June, the company announced bonuses for U.S. hourly store workers, including those in pharmacies and Vision Centers, benefiting 700,000 front-line staff.
Related: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39188408/walmart-sweetens-the-deal-for-hourly-employees-with-annual-bonuses-and-skill-upgrades-details" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart Sweetens The Deal For Hourly Employees with Annual Bonuses And Skill Upgrades: Details</a>
The recent move comes amid easing inflation and rising unemployment in Canada. Walmart Canada operates over 400 stores nationwide, employing more than 100,000 associates.
Walmart stock has gained more than 31% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and&nbsp;Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are trading lower by 0.21% at $69.87 at last check Friday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image from Shutterstock
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</ul>

Media

General

Walmart Canada Boosts Wages for 40,000 Workers: Details

Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) is likely to invest $200 million in self-driving forklifts to automate more of its warehouse operations.
The world&#8217;s largest retailer plans to buy potentially hundreds of autonomous forklifts from Fox Robotics, with whom it has already invested $25 million, reported Reuters citing sources.
This move is part of Walmart&#8217;s broader strategy to increase automation and compete with Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>).
Walmart&#8217;s plan includes exclusive deals with robotics vendors like Fox Robotics and Symbotic Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYM#NASDAQ">SYM</a>). These agreements will also restrict Walmart&#8217;s competitors from using the technology.
Walmart spokesperson Camille Dunn confirmed that the company is piloting the technology with 19 FoxBots in four facilities.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39729844/how-walmart-is-planning-to-boost-perishables-distribution-read-to-know">How Walmart Is Planning To Boost Perishables Distribution? Read To Know</a>
In recent years, Walmart has focused on robotics to manage costs and keep product prices low. Analysts from Jefferies estimate that Walmart could add $20 billion to its profit before interest and taxes by fiscal 2029 due to automation and AI efforts.
Walmart&#8217;s deal with Symbotic, announced in 2022, involves implementing automation in 42 distribution centers, where Walmart owns more than 13% of Symbotic stock.
FoxBots, tested for over a year, can unload pallets and integrate them into Symbotic&#8217;s automated system. Fox Robotics claims a single operator can manage up to six autonomous forklifts, reducing labor costs by 40%. 
Walmart stock has gained more than 29% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain access to the stock via the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are trading lower by 0.91% at $69.38 at last check Friday.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Walmart Considers $200M Bet On Self-Driving Forklifts To Boost Automation

Philip Morris International Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PM#NYSE">PM</a>) has announced a $600 million investment through one of its U.S. affiliates to establish a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/07/b39789795/philip-morris-international-u-s-affiliate-to-create-500-jobs-investing-600-million-in-aurora-colo-" rel="noreferrer noopener">manufacturing facility in Aurora, Colorado</a>.
The new plant, expected to create 500 direct jobs and generate $550 million in annual economic impact, will also add 1,000 indirect jobs as it produces Swedish Match ZYN nicotine pouches to meet the rising demand for smoke-free products among legal-age consumers.
PMI aims to shift adult smokers in the U.S. away from traditional cigarettes by enhancing its U.S. manufacturing capabilities.
PMI Americas President and U.S. CEO Stacey Kennedy said, &#8220;We believe Colorado is likeminded in its commitment to innovation, economic opportunity and public health, and we&#8217;re eager to work with the state and its talented workforce as we expand our U.S. manufacturing presence.&#8221;
The new facility is scheduled to break ground later this year, with operations starting by the end of 2025 and full production in 2026.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39377842/whats-happening-with-tobacco-major-philip-morris-shares-on-tuesday" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swedish Match North America Subpoenaed Over DC Flavored Sales</a>
The construction phase will create nearly 5,000 jobs, contributig nearly $1 billion to the economy. The facility will offer various career opportunities, including engineering, production, technical, and quality control positions, with an average annual salary of approximately $90,000.
PMI&#8217;s Swedish Match North America division is also ramping up production at its Owensboro, Kentucky facility.
PMI entered the U.S. market after acquiring Swedish Match in late 2022. ZYN pouches offer a smoke-free alternative for legal-age nicotine users and have been available in the U.S. for over a decade.
PMI said its U.S. affiliates follow strict marketing practices, ensuring access is limited to adults 21 and older. They do not use social media influencers under 35 and employ age-verification systems like &#8220;Double Verify&#8221; to restrict digital advertising to the legal-age audience.
Philip Morris stock has gained more than 7% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: PM shares traded higher by 0.80% at $105.92 on Tuesday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Philip Morris Expands US Operations With $600M Colorado Plant

June&#8217;s U.S. retail sales report indicates that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/retail-sales">increasingly careful consumers </a>are still opening their wallets, despite a stagnant reading on Tuesday, economists say.
U.S. retail sales remained<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/bonds/24/07/39792320/june-retail-sales-stagnate-traders-fully-price-in-september-interest-rate-cut"> flat in June</a>, falling from an upwardly revised 0.3% growth in May to zero growth and matching the forecasted flat reading, according to preliminary estimates<a href="https://www.census.gov/retail/sales.html"> issued</a> on Tuesday.
&#8220;A more discerning consumer continues to spend,&#8221; Quincy Krosby, chief global strategist for LPL Financial, said on Tuesday.
&#8220;This morning&#8217;s retail report &#8212; coupled with positive revisions &#8212; suggests that the all-important U.S. consumer, while increasingly discerning regarding purchases, continues to spend at a resilient pace.&#8221;
She also noted that Treasury yields inched higher on the favorable print, but equity futures remain positive.
&#8220;This report doesn&#8217;t negate expectations that the Fed will cut rates at its September 18 meeting, unless of course inflation-related data releases indicate an uptick in prices,&#8221; she said.
&#8220;Today&#8217;s report should be positive for markets as investors prefer the launch of a Fed easing cycle to begin with a still solid economic backdrop,&#8221; Krosby added.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39381240/us-stocks-mixed-retail-sales-increase-0-1-in-may">US Stocks Mixed; Retail Sales Increase 0.1% In May</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">June Retail Sales Report: Key Highlights</h3>
<ul>
<li>On a year-over-year basis, retail sales rose by 2.3% in June, slowing from an upwardly revised 2.6% in May.</li>
<li>Excluding motor vehicle and parts, retail sales increased by 0.4% month-over-month, up from 0.1% in May and topping the expected 0.1%, according to TradingEconomics data.</li>
<li>Excluding gasoline, motor vehicle and parts, retail sales rose 0.8% month-over-month in June, beating expectations of 0.2% growth and advancing from an upwardly revised 0.3% gain in May.</li>
<li>Among different spending categories, the largest monthly increases were seen in nonstore retailers, with a 1.9% rise, followed by building material, garden equipment and supplies dealers, up 1.4%.</li>
<li>The largest monthly drops were seen in gasoline stations, down 3%, and motor vehicle and parts dealers, down 2%.</li>
</ul>
&#8220;Consumers are pulling back on some items but they still show signs of resilience,&#8221; Jeffrey Roach, chief economist for LPL Financial, said on Tuesday.
&#8220;Investors will get a better picture on the consumer in the upcoming personal income and spending release later this month. So far, those consumers who experienced strong real income growth continue to support the economy with their insatiable appetite to spend,&#8221; Roach added.
Price Action: Major retailers made modest gains on Tuesday morning. Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) edged up 0.42% to $69.92, while Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) gained 0.79% to $194.24 and The Home Depot Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HD#NYSE">HD</a>) was up 1.81% to $365.03.
Exchange-traded funds that track Walmart, the world&#8217;s largest retailer, were up following the retail sales report. The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) gained 0.45% as the Vanguard Consumer Staples Index Fund ETF Shares (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) gained 0.83%.
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Photo: Shutterstock

Sector ETFs

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Economics

Flat Retail Sales Report Shows 'A More Discerning Consumer' Keeps Spending, Economists Say

Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) should beat last year&#8217;s<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39770529/amazon-gears-up-for-prime-day-2024-with-2t-market-cap"> Prime Day results</a> due to &#8220;early access deals,&#8221; analysts say.
Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) expects sales for this year&#8217;s 48-hour sales spree to jump 7% to $13 billion, beating the 6.1% sales leap to $12.7 billion posted during last year&#8217;s Prime Day, CNBC report <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/07/13/amazon-prime-day-more-than-375-million-items-sold.html">citing</a> Adobe Analytics.
&#8220;In our view, this year&#8217;s press release was more focused on early access deals and discounted services than last year, which could pull forward some sales out of Prime Day(s),&#8221; the bank said in a note on Monday
Amazon will offer discounts on hundreds of items over the two days to consumers with Amazon Prime memberships, including 57% off an Amazon Fire HD tablet computer, 28% off a Kenmore electric oven and 37% off a 55-inch Amazon Fire TV, according to its website.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/07/39695135/analysts-see-upside-ahead-for-amazon-stock-as-prime-day-approaches">Analysts See Upside Ahead For Amazon Stock As Prime Day Approaches</a>
Bank of America noted that Amazon isn&#8217;t the only retailer holding July sales events. Retail giant Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) just held a deal event that ended July 11. Target Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) held a &#8220;Circle Week&#8221; promotion that closed on July 13. TikTok Shop is holding a &#8220;Deal for You Days&#8221; that began on July 9.
Bank of America maintains a Buy rating and price target of $194.49 for Amazon.
Price Action: Amazon edged up 0.28% to $195.04 by late-morning trading on Monday. Walmart edged up 0.84% to $69.82. 
Exchange-traded funds that hold both Amazon and Walmart shares, however, trended downward.
Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) slipped 0.01%, while Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSTA#NYSE">FSTA</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) both dipped 0.08%. ProShares Ultra Consumer Staples (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SZK#NYSE">SZK</a>) declined 0.70% and Van Eck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) slipped 0.19%.
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Image: Shutterstock

Amazon Set To Top Last Year's Prime Day Results Due To Early Deals, Analysts Say

Walmart (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) is planning to take steps to enhance <a target="_blank" href="https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2024/07/10/walmarts-grocery-network-transformation-the-next-steps-on-our-supply-chain-modernization-journey" rel="noreferrer noopener">customer </a>satisfaction by expanding its grocery network with advanced technology and focusing on creating a more connected supply chain to ensure faster product availability.
The retail giant is constructing five new perishable distribution centers (DCs) with high-tech capabilities. The first, operational since 2021, is located in Shafter, California.
Additional centers in Lancaster, Texas; Wellford, South Carolina; Belvidere, Illinois; and Pilesgrove, New Jersey, will collectively add around 2,000 jobs to local communities.
These new distribution centers (DCs) will handle temperature-sensitive items like milk, meat, vegetables, and fruits that can spoil quickly, reported Reuters.
Also, Walmart is expanding four traditional perishable DCs, each gaining over 500,000 square feet of automation to boost fresh product capacity.
These expansions are taking place in Mankato, Minnesota; Mebane, North Carolina; Garrett, Indiana; and Shelbyville, Tennessee.
Walmart&#8217;s Winter Haven, Florida perishable DC is undergoing upgrades to integrate the latest technology. This retrofit aims to test the feasibility of updating existing grocery buildings with automation, similar to the company&#8217;s ambient distribution center in Brooksville, Florida.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39613518/walmart-explores-sale-of-closed-health-clinics-to-recoup-investments-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart Explores Sale Of Closed Health Clinics To Recoup Investments: Report</a>
The introduction of state-of-the-art technology in facilities aims to increase speed and capacity, enhancing reliability for customers.
High-tech DCs can store double the cases and process more than twice the volume of traditional perishable DCs, significantly improving efficiency.
This investment in technology supports Walmart&#8217;s goal of providing quick delivery and pickup services for groceries, utilizing its stores to fulfill online orders, reported Reuters.
Walmart, the largest grocery retailer in the U.S., generates<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/05/38869341/walmars-q1-earnings-revenue-and-eps-beat-more-members-and-high-income-households-raised-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener"> nearly $650 billion in annual sales</a>, with groceries accounting for 60% of its revenue, per the report.
By the end of its fiscal year 2026, Walmart aims for about 65% of its stores to be serviced by automation, further streamlining its supply chain and improving efficiency.
Walmart stock has gained more than 36% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are trading lower by 0.17% at $70.29 at premarket at last check Thursday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image from Shutterstock
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How Walmart Is Planning To Boost Perishables Distribution? Read To Know

Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) has reportedly entered discussions with prospective buyers to offload its recently closed medical clinics.
In April, Walmart announced the shutdown of all 51 of its health clinics and terminated its virtual healthcare services, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/04/38529328/walmart-to-shut-down-all-clinic-locations-amid-rising-costs-what-it-means-for-your-healthcare" rel="noreferrer noopener">citing the unsustainable nature of the business model.</a>
The retail giant is now exploring options to recover some of its investments in the clinics, engaging in conversations with various entities, including health insurance company Humana Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), reported Reuters.
Walmart has expressed its aim to recoup investments through a sale or other takeover arrangements. Although it&#8217;s unclear whether these discussions are still active, the company intends to recover part of the extensive capital poured into the clinics.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39330360/walmart-relaunches-no-boundaries-fashion-line-to-attract-gen-z-customers" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart Relaunches &#8216;No Boundaries&#8217; Fashion Line To Attract Gen Z Customers</a>
Last week, Walmart sold its virtual care subsidiary, MeMD, to healthcare technology startup Fabric, though the financial details of this transaction were not disclosed.
The retailers revenue for first quarter of 2025 totaled $161.51 billion, up 6.0% year over year, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/05/38869341/walmars-q1-earnings-revenue-and-eps-beat-more-members-and-high-income-households-raised-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener">beating the consensus of $159.50 billion.</a>
The adjusted EPS&nbsp;was $0.60, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $0.52.
Walmart stock has gained more than 29% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares closed higher by 0.87% at $68.07 on Tuesday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo by Sundry Photography on Shutterstock
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Asset Sales

Walmart Explores Sale Of Closed Health Clinics To Recoup Investments: Report

As the November election approaches, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are offering two very <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/06/39556388/joe-biden-to-be-replaced-in-2024-election-newsom-tops-democrat-wish-list-betting-odds-but-">different tax policies</a> for the American people when one of them steps into the Oval Office in late January 2025.
If elected, Trump would uphold his 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which features a corporate tax rate of 21% and lower taxes for individuals that dropped the tax rate for top earners from 39.6% to 37%.
The policy, which will expire in 2025, also nearly doubled standard deductions to $14,600 for single filers to $29,200 for married filers, FOX Business <a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/trump-vs-biden-where-presidential-candidates-stand-taxes">reported</a>. 
If Biden stays in office for a second term, he said he would let Trump&#8217;s tax cuts for the wealthy expire, while holding onto reductions for those making less than $400,000. 
Also Read: <a href="http://Joe Biden's Debate Performance Triggers Democratic Panic: 'Biden Sounds Hoarse, Looks Tired And Is Babbling'">Joe Biden&#8217;s Debate Performance Triggers Democratic Panic: &#8216;Biden Sounds Hoarse, Looks Tired And Is Babbling&#8217;</a>
Biden also proposes returning the top individual income tax rate from 37% to 39.6%, implementing a 25% minimum tax rate on households worth more than $100 million and increasing the capital gains tax rate. 
His policy also includes quadrupling the corporate stock buyback tax to 4%, raising the corporate tax rate to 28% and boosting the Medicare tax paid by wealthy Americans.
During Thursday&#8217;s presidential debate, Trump heralded his tax plan as creating the greatest economy the U.S. has ever seen before the COVID-19 pandemic, while Biden criticized it as a $2 trillion tax policy that benefited the very wealthy.
&#8220;What I'm going to do is fix the tax system,&#8221; Biden said during the debate, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/27/politics/read-biden-trump-debate-rush-transcript/index.html">according</a> to a CNN transcript.
Biden also knocked Trump&#8217;s proposed 10% tariff on all imports, saying it would cost the average American at least $2,500 a year as a result in higher prices for food and other goods.
Price Action: Stocks and exchange-traded funds in the tax-preparation and financial sectors, both of which can be sensitive to tax-policy changes, gave mixed reactions on Friday to the proposals being offered by Biden and Trump. 
H&amp;R Block Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HRB#NYSE">HRB</a>) gained 0.67% to reach $53.89 by late-afternoon trading on Friday, while Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTU#NASDAQ">INTU</a>) edged up 0.90% to $567.30 and Morgan Stanley (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MS#NYSE">MS</a>) improved 0.77% to $96.51.
Shares U.S. Financials ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYF#NYSE">IYF</a>) ticked up 0.27%, but Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) fell 0.55% in the late afternoon and Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>) dipped 1.28%.
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iShares Dow Jones US Financial Sector Index Fund

Who Wins, Who Loses? Biden and Trump's Tax Policies Are Very Different

Tobacco major Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PM#NYSE">PM</a>) is trading <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket" rel="noreferrer noopener">lower in premarket today</a>.
Swedish Match North America LLC (SMNA), an affiliate of Philip Morris, received a subpoena from the Attorney General of the District of Columbia, requesting details on SMNA&#8217;s adherence to D.C.'s ban on the sale of flavored products, particularly <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/39368099" rel="noreferrer noopener">focusing on ZYN nicotine pouches.</a>
Early investigations revealed that flavored nicotine pouches have been sold in D.C., mainly through online platforms and some independent retailers.
In response, Philip Morris has directed SMNA to conduct a thorough review of its sales and distribution channels in D.C. and other areas affected by flavor restrictions.
As a preliminary action, SMNA has suspended online sales on ZYN.com while continuing its investigation.
The company has emphasized that all sales through ZYN.com are age-restricted, ensuring that only adults aged 21 and over can access the products.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39165115/philip-morris-international-raises-2024-earnings-outlook-expects-growth-despite-currency-impact" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Morris International Raises 2024 Earnings Outlook, Expects Growth Despite Currency Impact</a>
Should the inquiry conclude unfavorably, SMNA could face substantial financial liabilities, though the exact amount is currently indeterminate.
Zyn products, which resemble tea bags, are designed to deliver nicotine by being placed between the gum and upper lip. Notably, these pouches do not contain tobacco, setting them apart from traditional tobacco products, reported <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-06-18/philip-morris-halts-us-online-sale-of-zyn-pouches-after-subpoena?srnd=industries-consumer&amp;sref=TBDibEcD" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg</a>.
The response to this regulatory action in D.C. might prompt similar measures in other states and localities. Currently, approximately 400 localities and five states have imposed bans or restrictions on flavored tobacco and nicotine products.
The report further mentioned that the product has also attracted criticism from influential figures such as U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who has accused the company of targeting young consumers with these flavored nicotine products.
Philip Morris stock has gained more than 7% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: PM shares are trading lower by 2.89% at $99.10 in premarket at last check Tuesday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Photo via Shutterstock

What's Happening With Tobacco Major Philip Morris Shares On Tuesday?

Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) is set to revitalize its major fashion label, No Boundaries, worth $2 billion, targeting young adults with a fresh line of apparel that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/06/b39319207/walmart-relaunches-no-boundaries-its-2b-modern-fashion-brand-designed-for-gen-z" rel="noreferrer noopener">blends modern design with affordability</a>.
As the new academic year approaches, this overhaul aims to cater primarily to the back-to-school and college crowd.
With a strategic focus on the youth market, Walmart has now introduced a specialized design team for the first time to elevate the No Boundaries collection.
The team, composed of seasoned experts in Gen Z fashion, will guide the brand toward appealing directly to younger shoppers.
&#8220;There&#8217;s a huge opportunity for Walmart to reach a Gen Z customer with a brand that has both incredible style and unbelievable prices,&#8221; said Senior Vice President of Walmart U.S. fashion brands Jen Jackson Brown.
&#8220;We have 145 million U.S. customers shopping with us in stores and online each week, and the new No Boundaries brand is designed and marketed with intention to reach this young adult audience by focusing on fit, quality, style and fabrics that resonate with them.&#8221;
According to company surveys, a significant portion of Gen Z customers prefer versatile pieces that reflect their personal style.
The redesigned No Boundaries line promises to meet these preferences with its casual, trendy gear that encourages self-expression.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39188408/walmart-sweetens-the-deal-for-hourly-employees-with-annual-bonuses-and-skill-upgrades-details" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart Sweetens The Deal For Hourly Employees with Annual Bonuses And Skill Upgrades: Details</a>
The collection, launching on July 16th, will showcase 130 new items across various categories, including men&#8217;s and women&#8217;s wear, footwear, and accessories.
Highlight pieces feature contemporary styles like baggy jeans and oversized sweat sets, crafted from premium materials such as lux fleece and authentic denim.
Moreover, the line will introduce eco-friendly innovations like plant-based bra pads derived from sugarcane.
With 80% of the No Boundaries items priced under $15, Walmart wants to make fashion accessible to a broad demographic, ensuring that style does not come at a premium.
The No Boundaries brand will also expand its presence online and through social media, including an innovative partnership with Roblox Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RBLX#NYSE">RBLX</a>), where users can purchase virtual outfits mirroring the physical collection.
This move taps into the digital-native habits of Gen Z, integrating fashion with popular gaming platforms.
Walmart stock has gained more than 27% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares were trading lower by 0.15% at $66.60 premarket at the last check on Friday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo by Sundry Photography on Shutterstock

RBLX

Walmart Relaunches 'No Boundaries' Fashion Line To Attract Gen Z Customers

Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) has announced it will provide <a target="_blank" href="https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2024/06/05/the-investment-continues-walmart-launches-associate-bonuses-new-opportunities" rel="noreferrer noopener">bonuses </a>to eligible&nbsp;hourly U.S. store workers, with a potential of up to $1,000 a year.
Both part-time and full-time associates will qualify for the annual bonus program, which stemmed from employee feedback, according to John Furner, CEO of Walmart U.S.
The store workers include those at its pharmacy and Vision Center outlets. The retailer&#8217;s move aims to enhance wages for approximately 700,000 front-line employees, reported Reuters.
Furner emphasized the significance of maintaining competitive base wages, ahead of the company&#8217;s annual shareholder meeting.
Employees must have a year of tenure to be eligible, and bonuses will be based on store performance metrics.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/39093612/walmarts-self-checkout-glitch-leads-to-widespread-mispricing" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart&#8217;s Self-Checkout Glitch Leads to Widespread Mispricing</a>
As of the end of FY2024, Walmart employed approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide, with approximately 1.6 million associates in the U.S. Its minimum hourly wage begins at $14.
This is lower than the $15 starting wages offered by Amazon.com (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and Target (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>). Additionally, the company increased the average salary and bonus <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36837656/walmarts-store-managers-stand-to-gain-20k-in-stock-annually-exceeding-525k-in-total-compensation" rel="noreferrer noopener">for its U.S. store managers starting February 1.</a>
The U.S. labor market remains tight, with the Labor Department&#8217;s latest report indicating a slower-than-expected job growth in April and annual wage increases falling below 4% for the first time in nearly three years, per the report.
&#8220;We are seeing a decrease in (store worker) turnover,&#8221; Furner said, which the report noted.
Walmart also introduced the &#8216;Associate to Technician&#8217; certification program to assist employees in transitioning to higher-paying technical roles.
This program targets fields such as refrigeration, cooling maintenance, facilities maintenance, and automation technician roles, where the company faces shortages.
According to Lo Stomski, Walmart&#8217;s chief talent officer, this initiative aims to increase the technician workforce from about 450 to around 2,000 over the next two years, the report added.
&#8220;These jobs make between $19 and $45 an hour and offer opportunities to build a meaningful career,&#8221; Stomski said.
Walmart stock has gained more than 33% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are trading higher by 0.13% at $66.69 at the last check Wednesday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/05/39011319/google-joins-the-club-invests-in-flipkart-reportedly-boosting-e-commerce-giants-valuation-to-37b" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google Joins The Club: Invests In Flipkart, Reportedly Boosting E-Commerce Giant&#8217;s Valuation to $37B</a>
Photo by Sundry Photography on Shutterstock

Walmart Sweetens The Deal For Hourly Employees with Annual Bonuses And Skill Upgrades: Details

Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) faced a significant technical issue in March, leading to widespread mispricing across its self-checkout systems.
The glitch, which occurred on March 19, resulted in customers being charged incorrect prices for various items.
Some prices were lower than listed, while others were higher. This incident affected 1,600 stores nationwide.
According to documents reviewed by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-05-29/walmart-files-show-wrong-prices-charged-at-1-600-stores-for-days?srnd=industries-v2&amp;sref=TBDibEcD" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg</a>, the problem arose from a failure in the system that updates product information for self-checkout kiosks.
Walmart acknowledged the error and stated that efforts to fix the issue had been ongoing for two days. Over 80% of affected customers being reimbursed.
However, the company did not disclose how many customers were overcharged or the total amount involved.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/05/38968202/walmart-launches-free-pet-telehealth-services-with-pawp-partnership-whats-the-perk" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart+ Launches Free Pet Telehealth Services With Pawp Partnership &#8211; What&#8217;s The Perk?</a>
The technical glitch caused confusion and frustration among shoppers who noticed discrepancies in the prices at self-checkout stands.
Walmart&#8217;s spokesperson, Mischa Dunton, told Bloomberg that the issue led to overcharges averaging 1.88% of the total basket size for affected customers.
Despite the company&#8217;s efforts to reimburse customers, legal experts suggest that the incident could violate consumer protection laws at both state and federal levels.
The pricing mishap is one of many technological challenges Walmart has faced recently. In February, cash register outages disrupted operations, and issues with photo and vision prescription orders were reported in March.
Legal experts stress the importance of a thorough investigation into the cause of the mispricing and assurances that such issues will not recur.
Walmart stock has gained more than 33% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: At the last check on Thursday, WMT shares were trading lower by 0.03% at $64.90.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/39009429/nvidia-ceo-jensen-huang-now-richer-than-each-walmart-heir-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Now Richer Than Each Walmart Heir: Report</a>
Photo via Shutterstock

Walmart's Self-Checkout Glitch Leads to Widespread Mispricing

Retail Sales Up 0.7% In November, Better Than Expected

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November U.S. Retail Sales Beat Expectations; 3 New Bankruptcies

Operating Expenses Grow By Over $73B For U.S. Investment-Grade Companies In Q3

JPMorgan spotlights 12 consumer names in its 'stocks for 2025' list

ETF shorts were up last week, led by large-cap ETFs

BofA reports $10B in U.S. equity inflows, marking largest weekly surge since 2017

Top-rated smaller consumer staple stocks as sector gears up for rate cuts in 2025

2024 winners and losers in consumer staples: Walmart and Kellanova top charts

Coca-Cola And PepsiCo: Own Both Or Lose Big This Year

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UTES

2024년은 이정표를 세운 한 해였다. 현재의 강세장은 거의 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42430296/carson-researchs-50-year-study-suggests-that-the-26-months-old-bull-market-is-far-from-over">26개월이 지났지만</a> 흔들림 없는 상승세를 보이고 있다. 이는 2022년 10월 중순의 저점 대비 70% 이상 상승한 수치다. 한 해를 마무리하며 &#8216;산타 랠리&#8217;의 가능성을 염두에 두고 2024년의 중요한 시점을 정리해 보려고 한다.
<h3>미국 주요 벤치마크의 기록 경신</h3>
S&amp;P 500 지수는 올해 57번 사상 최고치를 경신했으며, 2024년 12월 6일에 마지막 최고치를 기록했다. 또한, 카슨 리서치의 수석 시장 전략가인 라이언 디트릭은 메모에서 "2024년은 역대 최고의 선거 연도 수익률로 기록될 것"이라고 말했다.
"50년 전으로 거슬러 올라가면 적어도 이만큼 오래 지속된 강세장은 5번 있었고, 그중 가장 짧게 지속된 강세장은 총 5년이었다. 유람선처럼 한 번 움직이기 시작하면 멈추기가 매우 어려울 수 있다.&#8221;
12월 23일 종가 기준으로 S&amp;P 500 지수는 연초 대비 25.96% 상승한 반면, SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>)는 같은 기간 25.82% 상승했다.
반면 다우존스 산업평균 지수는 올해 1,000포인트 돌파 기록을 8번이나 세웠다. 37,000선에서 출발해 12월 초에 45,000선을 돌파했다. 지수가 44,000포인트에서 45,000포인트까지 도달하는 데 단 7거래일밖에 걸리지 않았으며, 이는 역대 두 번째로 빠른 1,000포인트 돌파 기록이다. 그 후 지수는 1974년 이후 사상 최초로 최장 10일 연속 하락세를 기록하기도 했다.
12월 23일 종가 기준으로 다우존스 지수는 연초 대비 13.77% 상승한 반면, 같은 기간 SPDR 다우존스 산업평균 ETF Trust(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>)는 13.74% 상승했다.
다우 지수와 달리 &#8216;매그니피센트 7&#8217; 종목이 모두 포함된 나스닥 100 지수는 12월 23일 종가 기준으로 연초 대비 29.98% 상승했다. 이 지수를 추종하는 ETF인 Fidelity NASDAQ Composite Index ETF(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONEQ#NASDAQ">ONEQ</a>)는 같은 기간 동안 33.85% 상승했다. 반면, Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>)은 2024년 동안 29.88% 상승했다.
소형주 지수인 러셀 2000 지수는 1년 동안 11.16% 상승했고, 12월 23일 종가 기준으로 같은 기간 iShares Russell 2000 ETF(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>)는 10.97% 상승했다.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021350/CHARt-1-INDICES-1024x576.png?optimize=medium&amp;dpr=2&amp;auto=webp&amp;width=2048" width="1024" height="576" />
<h3>세계를 압도하는 미국 시장</h3>
선진국 지수 중 S&amp;P 500 지수는 연초 대비 25.96% 상승하며 다른 모든 선진국 지수를 능가하는 최고의 지수로 남아 있다.
디트릭은 1897년 이후 새 대통령의 임기 <a href="https://x.com/RyanDetrick/status/1871317802306707882">첫해</a>에는 일반적으로 강세를 보였지만, 재임 첫해의 수익률은 전반적으로 좋지 않았다고 말했다.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">
Returns during year one of a second term haven&#39;t been very good overall, but way better lately. 
Down 5 in a row, but now up 4 in a row. &#x1f914; <a href="https://t.co/aUrCbf22Gw">pic.twitter.com/aUrCbf22Gw</a>
&mdash; Ryan Detrick, CMT (@RyanDetrick) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanDetrick/status/1871320275129967103?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<table class="block core-block table" style="height: 249px;" width="715">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>선진국 시장</td>
<td>지수</td>
<td>2024년 성과 (2024년 12월 23일 종가 기준)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>미국</td>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>25.96%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>독일</td>
<td>DAX</td>
<td>18.36%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>일본</td>
<td>Nikkei 225</td>
<td>17.27%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>홍콩</td>
<td>Hang Seng</td>
<td>19.71%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>스페인</td>
<td>IBEX 35</td>
<td>12.31%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>영국</td>
<td>FTSE 100</td>
<td>4.94%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>스위스</td>
<td>Swiss Market</td>
<td>2.85%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>프랑스</td>
<td>CAC 40</td>
<td>-3.43%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>2024년 통신, 임의소비재 및 기술 섹터가 상승세 주도</h3>
미국 시장의 주요 섹터를 추종하는 상장지수펀드를 추적한 결과 통신 서비스가 올해 최고의 섹터로 부상했고, 임의소비재와 기술 섹터가 그 뒤를 이었다. 정보 기술 섹터는 S&amp;P 500에서 31.3%로 가장 높은 비중을 차지하고 있으며, 금융이 13.9%로 그 뒤를 잇고 있다.
블랙록은 2025년에도 기술 기업의 실적이 양호할 것으로 전망했다. "AI 테마와 수익 성장세가 확대됨에 따라 비중확대를 유지한다. AI 수혜주에 대한 밸류에이션은 기술 기업의 실적에 의해 뒷받침된다."
<table class="block core-block table" style="height: 403px;" width="832">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>경기순환 섹터</td>
<td>ETF</td>
<td>2024년 성과 (12월 23일 종가 기준)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>커뮤니케이션 서비스</td>
<td>Communication Services Select SPDR ETF (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit;" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xlc" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for XLC">XLC)</a>
<div class="ticker-wrapper">
<div class="sc-icgYrN hngKKh ticker-box-wrapper"></div>
</div>
</td>
<td>35.97%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>임의소비재</td>
<td>Vanguard Consumer Discretionary ETF (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/vcr" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for VCR">VCR</a>)</td>
<td>27.21%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>기술</td>
<td>Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xlk" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for XLK">XLK</a>)</td>
<td>27.01%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>금융</td>
<td>Invesco S&amp;P 500 Equal Weight Financial ETF (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/rspf" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for RSPF">RSPF</a>)</td>
<td>23.48%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>산업재</td>
<td>Vanguard Industrials ETF (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/vis" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for VIS">VIS</a>)</td>
<td>17.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>부동산</td>
<td>Real Estate Select Sector SPDR (<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xlre" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for XLRE">XLRE</a>)</td>
<td>0.27%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>소재</td>
<td>Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xlb" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for XLB">XLB</a>)</td>
<td>-0.37%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24021831/Chart-2.1-cyclical-sectors-1024x576.png?optimize=medium&amp;dpr=2&amp;auto=webp&amp;width=2048" width="1024" height="576" />
경기방어 섹터 중에서는 유틸리티 섹터가 승자로 부상한 반면 에너지가 저조한 성과를 보였다. S&amp;P 500 지수에서 필수소비재, 에너지, 유틸리티는 각각 5.7%, 3.4%, 2.5%의 비중을 차지한다.
모건스탠리에 따르면 에너지 섹터는 엇갈린 미래에 직면해 있다. 트럼프의 규제 완화는 전통적인 에너지에 도움이 될 수 있지만, 잠재적 공급 과잉과 특히 중국의 글로벌 수요 약세로 인해 석유에 대한 전망은 불확실하다.
반면 천연가스는 유럽의 강력한 수요와 전기화 및 AI 기반 데이터 센터에 대한 국내 사용 증가로 인해 성장할 수 있다. 트럼프가 바이든의 2022년 인플레이션 감축법 세액공제를 철회할 경우 청정 에너지 부문은 어려움에 직면할 수 있다. 그러나 공화당 주에 대한 혜택으로 인해 전면적인 폐지는 어려울 것으로 보인다.
<table class="block core-block table" style="height: 139px;" width="752">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>경기방어 섹터</td>
<td>ETF</td>
<td>2024년 성과 (2024년 12월 23일 종가 기준)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>유틸리티</td>
<td>Vanguard Utilities ETF (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/vpu" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for VPU">VPU</a>)</td>
<td>18.23%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>필수소비재</td>
<td>Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/vdc" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for VDC">VDC</a>)</td>
<td>10.04%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>헬스케어</td>
<td>Vanguard Health Care ETF (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/vht" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for VHT">VHT</a>)</td>
<td>0.63%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>에너지</td>
<td>The Energy Select Sector SPDR ETF (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xle" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for XLE">XLE</a>)</td>
<td>-0.96%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022041/Chart-2.2-defensive-sectors-1024x576.png?optimize=medium&amp;dpr=2&amp;auto=webp&amp;width=2048" width="1024" height="576" />
<h3>2024년 S&amp;P 500 최대 상승 기업</h3>
12월 23일 종가 기준으로 올해 S&amp;P 500 지수에서 386.67% 상승한 팔란티어는 올해 최고 수익률을 기록했다. 팔란티어의 뒤를 이어 비스트라와 엔비디아가 같은 기간 동안 각각 269.82%와 189.95%의 상승률을 기록했다.
<table class="block core-block table" style="height: 310px;" width="563">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500 주식</td>
<td>2024년 성과 (2024년 12월 23일 종가 기준)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>팔란티어 테크놀로지스 (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/pltr" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for PLTR">PLTR</a>)</td>
<td>386.67%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>비스트라 (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/vst" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for VST">VST</a>)</td>
<td>269.82%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>엔비디아 (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/nvda" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for NVDA">NVDA</a>)</td>
<td>189.95%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GE 버노바 (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/gev" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for GEV">GEV</a>)</td>
<td>162.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>액손 엔터프라이즈 (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/axon" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for AXON">AXON</a>)</td>
<td>148.04%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>유나이티드항공 (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ual" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for UAL">UAL</a>)</td>
<td>144.30%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>브로드컴 (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/avgo" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for AVGO">AVGO</a>)</td>
<td>114.07%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>텍사스 퍼시픽 랜드 (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/tpl" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for TPL">TPL</a>)</td>
<td>113.03%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>타르가 리소시스 (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/trgp" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for TRGP">TRGP</a>)</td>
<td>106.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>하우멧 에어로스페이스 (<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/hwm" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for HWM">HWM</a>)</td>
<td>105.73%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022228/Chart-3-top-performers-of-SPY-1024x576.png?optimize=medium&amp;dpr=2&amp;auto=webp&amp;width=2048" width="1024" height="576" />
<h3>2024년 미국 달러, 6% 이상 급등</h3>
달러 지수는 52주 100.1570~108.5410 범위에서 연초 대비 6.72% 상승했다. 달러가 이러한 상승세를 유지할 수 있다면 2015년 이후 두 번째로 좋은 한 해가 될 것이다.
쿠날 소다니 신한은행 글로벌 트레이딩 센터 부사장은 "트럼프의 정책 기대감과 연준의 금리 사이클에 대한 매파적 발언으로 인한 불확실성 때문에 달러 수요가 증가하고 있다"고 말했다.
프랭클린 템플턴은 "연준의 양적완화 사이클이 달러화의 지배적인 요인이 될 것이고, 금리 측면에서 연준과 주기적으로 비교하는 두 가지 주요 국가는 신흥시장과 일본&#8221;이라고 했다.
12월 23일 종가 기준 WisdomTree Bloomberg U.S. Dollar Bullish Fund(<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/usdu">USDU</a>)는 연초 대비 13.24% 상승한 반면, Invesco DB USD Index Bullish Fund ETF(<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/uup">UUP</a>)는 같은 기간 7.21% 상승했다.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24022447/Chart-4-Dollar-ETFs-1024x576.png?optimize=medium&amp;dpr=2&amp;auto=webp&amp;width=2048" width="1024" height="576" />
사진: Shutterstock
Benzinga Pro의 독점 뉴스 및 도구로 수익률을 높이세요.
독점 속보 및 스캐너와 같은 Benzinga Pro의 강력한 도구 세트로 다른 트레이더보다 우위를 점하세요. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?t=be2bewe5mibe3bz3&amp;utm_source=bz-kor">여기를 클릭</a>하여 14일 무료 체험을 시작하세요.
<div class="flex items-center gap-3 mt-1"></div>

2024년 S&P 500 지수는 57회 사상 최고치 경신, 나스닥 급등의 30%는 '매그 7' 그룹이 주도

JP 모건의 애널리스트인 크리스토퍼 호버스(Christopher Horvers)는 월마트(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>)의 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42060801/walmart-tops-q3-estimates-ecommerce-growth-shines-with-27-lifts-full-year-forecast" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-google-interstitial="false">화요일 발표된 2025 회계연도 3분기 실적</a>에 대해 강한 긍정적인 의견을 표현했다.
월마트는 매출이 1,696억 달러로 예상치를 초과했으며, 조정 주당순이익(EPS)이 0.58달러, 전 세계 전자상거래 매출이 27% 증가했다고 보고했다.
이 회사는 2025 회계연도 조정 EPS 가이던스를 2.42~2.47달러로 상향 조정하고, 매출 성장률을 4.8%~5.1%로 상향 조정하였으며, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">강력한 미국 성과</a>를 인용했다.
이 애널리스트는 이전 분기와 유사하게 월마트가 일관된 초과 실적에도 불구하고 신중한 예측을 유지한다고 언급했다.
또한, 강력한 미국 및 해외 총 마진 추세가 구조적 수익성 개선을 이끌어내어 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WMT/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">비중 확대 등급을 뒷받침</a>한다고 덧붙였다.
호버스는 지속적인 시장 점유율 증가와 상향 조정이 외환(환율) 역풍과 제한된 SG&amp;A 레버리지에도 불구하고 강세 논리를 강화한다고 말했다.
이 애널리스트는 회계연도 가이던스가 4분기 순매출 성장률이 3.4%~4.5% (시장 예상 3.7% 대비), 운영 이익 성장률이 5.7%~8.5% (시장 예상 8.7% 대비), EPS가 0.57~0.62달러 (시장 예상 0.66달러 대비)을 제시한다고 썼다.
투자자들은 Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>)와 Fidelity MSCI 소비재 지수 ETF(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSTA#NYSE">FSTA</a>)를 통해 이 주식에 투자할 수 있다.
가격 변동: 월마트의 주식은 화요일 3.00% 상승한 86.60달러로 마감했다.
이미지 출처: Shutterstock
다음 읽기:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/42064198/putin-revises-nuclear-doctrine-for-broader-strikes-after-us-backed-ukrainian-attack-markets-drop-bonds-gain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">푸틴, 미국 지원 우크라이나 공격 후 핵 독트린을 광범위한 타격으로 수정: 시장 하락, 채권 상승</a></li>
</ul>
Benzinga Pro의 독점 뉴스 및 도구로 더 많은 승리를 거두세요 
독점 속보 및 스캐너와 같은 Benzinga Pro의 강력한 도구 세트로 다른 트레이더보다 우위를 점하세요. 
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?t=be2bewe5mibe3bz3&amp;utm_source=bz-kor" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">여기를 클릭</a>하여 14일 무료 체험을 시작하세요.

텔시 어드바이저리 그룹(Tesley Advisory Group)의 분석가들에 따르면 타깃 코퍼레이션(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>)과 로스 스토어스(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROST#NYSE">ROST</a>)는 거시적인 불확실성에도 불구하고 소비자들이 계속 지출함에 따라 2분기에 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40393307/why-is-target-corporation-stock-gaining-today" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-google-interstitial="false">더 나은 매출을 기록</a>할 것이라고 한다.
분석가인 조셉 펠드먼(Joseph Feldman)은 타깃의 2분기 매출이 수요일 시장 개장 전 매출을 발표할 때 전년 동기 대비 2% 증가한 253억 달러에 이를 것으로 예상한다. 그의 예측은 팩트셋(FactSet)의 매출 컨센서스인 252억 달러를 초과한다.
펠드먼은 일반적인 쇼핑객들의 특성을 논평하면서 타깃에 대해&#8221;대체로 우리는 소비자들이 계속해서 가치를 추구하고 필수품에 집중하는 동시에 임의 품목에 선택적으로 지출하고 혁신과 새로움에 반응하면서 탄력성을 보이고 있다고 믿고 있다&#8221;고 말했다.
타깃(Target)은 새로운 매장에서 프라이빗 브랜드를 제공하는 동시에 가격을 인하함으로써 가치 제공에 계속 집중하고 있다고 그가 말했다.
그는 타깃의 주식에 대해 아웃퍼폼(Outperform) 등급과 190달러 목표 가격을 유지했다.
다음 읽기: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/08/40393687/retail-sales-soar-in-july-weekly-jobless-claims-undercut-expectations-traders-lea">7월 소매 판매 급증, 주간 실업수당 청구 건수 기대치 하락: 거래자들은 9월 25bp 인하 방향으로 기울어짐</a>
애널리스트 다나 텔시(Dana Tesley)는 로스 스토어스(Ross Stores)의 2분기 매출이 전년 대비 6.9% 증가한 52억 8천만 달러로 목요일 시장 마감 후 결과를 발표할 것으로 예상한다. 그녀의 기대치는 매출 컨센서스인 52억 4천만 달러를 초과한다.
그녀는 메모에서 &#8220;우리는 로스가 지난 5분기 동안 일련의 강력한 결과를 통해 계속해서 격려를 받고 있다. 로스는 일부 핵심 소비자들에 대한 엄청난 압박에도 불구하고 거시적 과제를 상대적으로 잘 헤쳐나가고 있다&#8221;라고 말했다.
&#8220;우리는 제품 믹스를 개선하고 비즈니스 전반의 효율성을 높이려는 경영진의 노력에 고무되었다.&#8221;
그녀는 마켓 퍼폼(Market Perform) 등급과 160달러의 목표 주가를 유지한다.
주가 움직임: 타깃은 1.67% 상승해 금요일 144.03달러에 마감했으며, 이 주식을 추적하는 상장지수펀드(ETF)도 상승했다.
<ul>
<li>VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>)의 주가는 0.61% 상승했다.</li>
<li>Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>)의 주가는 0.27% 올랐다.</li>
<li>Simplify Next Intangible Value Index ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NXTV#BATS">NXTV</a>)의 주가는 0.15% 올랐다.</li>
<li>Federated Hermes U.S. Strategic Dividend ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FDV#NYSE">FDV</a>)의 주가는 0.41% 올랐다.</li>
<li>Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>)의 주가는 0.32% 올랐다.</li>
</ul>
금요일 로스 스토어스의 주가는 0.27% 하락한 147.40달러에 마감했으며, 그 주식을 따르는 ETF는 엇갈린 결과를 보였다.
<ul>
<li>VictoryShares THB Mid Cap ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MDCP#NASDAQ">MDCP</a>)의 주가는 0.52% 상승했다.</li>
<li>BlackRock Future U.S. Themes ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BTHM#NYSE">BTHM</a>)의 주가는 0.03% 하락했다.</li>
<li>IShares U.S. Consumer Focused ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEDI#BATS">IEDI</a>)의 주가는 0.24% 상승했다.</li>
<li>LG QRAFT AI-Powered U.S. Large Cap Core ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LQAI#NYSE">LQAI</a>)의 주가는 변동하지 않았다.</li>
<li>Invesco S&amp;P 500 Equal Weight Consumer Discretionary ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RSPD#NYSE">RSPD</a>)의 주가는 0.29% 상승했다.</li>
</ul>
Benzinga Pro의 독점 뉴스 및 도구로 더 많은 승리를 거두세요 
독점 속보 및 스캐너와 같은 Benzinga Pro의 강력한 도구 세트로 다른 트레이더보다 우위를 점하세요. 
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?t=be2bewe5mibe3bz3&amp;utm_source=bz-kor" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">여기를 클릭</a>하여 14일 무료 체험을 시작하세요.

월마트(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>)의 주가는 회사가 강력한 2025년 2분기 실적을 발표하고 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/08/b40390393/walmart-reports-strong-revenue-growth-of-4-8-with-operating-income-growing-faster-at-8-5-adjusted-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-google-interstitial="false">연간 지침을 높인</a> 후 목요일에 상승했다.
이 거대 소매업체는 조정 주당 순이익(EPS)을 0.67달러(+9.8% Y/Y)로 보고했는데, 이는 컨센서스인 0.64달러를 앞섰고, 매출이 1,693억 4천만 달러로 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40391777" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-google-interstitial="false">컨센서스</a>인 1,685억 7천만 달러를 넘어섰다.
월마트는 3분기 조정 EPS가 컨센서스 0.55달러에 비해 0.51~0.52달러이고 순매출은 CC에서 3.25%~4.25% 증가할 것으로 예상한다.
JP모건의 분석가인 크리스토퍼 호버스(Christopher Horvers)는 월마트에 대해 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/wmt/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-google-interstitial="false">비중확대</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/wmt/analyst-ratings">(Overweight)</a> 등급을 부여했다. 이는 소비자 시장에 대한 우려와 2분기 말 경기 둔화에 대한 우려, 그리고 미국과 국제 시장 모두에서 스트리트 기대치를 뛰어넘는 강력한 총마진을 감안하여 이 분석가는 오늘 주가가 긍정적인 반응을 보일 것으로 예상했다.
이는 경영진이 언급된 3분기 타이밍 전환을 적절하게 해결한다고 가정한다고 이 분석가가 썼다. 호버스는 4분기 묵시적 추정치에 대한 업그레이드가 없다는 것은 알려진 역풍으로 인한 하반기 소비자 추세와 불확실성에 대한 주의를 반영한 ​​것이라고 덧붙였다.
이 분석가는 3분기 지침이 국제 부문의 축제 행사 시기와 계획된 비용을 설명한다고 말한다. 여기에는 3분기와 4분기 사이에 자주 이동하는 FK의 빅 빌링 데이(Big Billion Days) 이벤트의 영향이 포함된다(2023년 참조).
투자자들은 Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>)와 SPDR Select Sector Fund – Consumer Staples (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>)를 통해 이러한 주식을 매수할 수 있다.
주가 움직임: 목요일 월마트 주식은 6.58% 상승한 73.18달러에 마감했다.
면책 조항 :이 콘텐츠는 AI 도구의 도움을 받아 일부 제작되었으며 Benzinga 편집자들에 의해 검토 및 게시되었습니다.
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Benzinga Pro의 독점 뉴스 및 도구로 더 많은 승리를 거두세요 
독점 속보 및 스캐너와 같은 Benzinga Pro의 강력한 도구 세트로 다른 트레이더보다 우위를 점하세요. 
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?t=be2bewe5mibe3bz3&amp;utm_source=bz-kor" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">여기를 클릭</a>하여 14일 무료 체험을 시작하세요.

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Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF

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에 대한 최신 뉴스 Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (ARCA:VDC)

목요일, 12월 26, 2024

화요일, 11월 19, 2024

월요일, 8월 19, 2024

금요일, 8월 16, 2024

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