Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (NYSE:WMT)
Walmart, the world’s largest company if rated by revenue, reported earnings on Thursday May 19, 2016 that blew away every expectation by analysts that cover them. And when it comes to Walmart, nearly every major analyst firm on Wall Street covers them.
With a Walmart in every US state, it is hard to find someone who has not shopped there for necessities and ancillary products at least once in their lifetime. Their products - which range from everyday knick knacks, to fresh food products, gardening and lawn products, as well as clothing and appliances - are priced below most other retailers to accommodate the average American to be able to afford whatever it is they are looking for.
The Numbers
Before the market opened on Thursday, Walmart reported that they earned $0.98 per share, which easily blew out all analyst estimates which averaged at $0.88 per share. Revenues were $ 116 billion dollars, versus estimates of roughly $112 billion dollars.
The company was able to do these numbers even though they announced a pay increase for more than one million of their employees, which took effect in February. They were the first multinational American company to systematically raise the minimum wage for their employees.
The Chart
As we look at the chart you will see something you will not see on too many price charts - a green price bar gap up (which is from Thursday) and a red previous price bar showing a gap down, both within a two-day period.
With 35 million shares traded today, which beats the average by about six hundred percent, prices will likely drift higher as more and more investors want to be part of the Walmart money train.
Company Profile
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. operates retail stores in various formats worldwide. It operates through three segments: Walmart U.S., Walmart International, and Sam’s Club. The company operates discount stores, supermarkets, supercenters, hypermarkets, warehouse clubs, cash and carry stores, home improvement stores, specialty electronics stores, apparel stores, drug stores, convenience stores, and membership-only warehouse clubs; and retail Websites, such as walmart.com and samsclub.com. It offers grocery products, including meat, produce, natural and organics, deli and bakery, dairy, frozen foods, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, floral and dry grocery, as well as consumables, such as health and beauty aids, baby products, household chemicals, paper goods, and pet supplies; and health and wellness products, which include pharmacy, optical services, clinical services, over-the-counter drugs, and other medical products.
The company also provides electronics, toys, cameras and supplies, photo processing services, cellular phones, cellular service plan contracts and prepaid service, movies, music, video games, and books; stationery, automotive, hardware and paint, and sporting goods, as well as fabrics, crafts, and seasonal merchandise; apparel for women, girls, men, boys, and infants, as well as shoes, jewelry, and accessories; and home furnishings, housewares and small appliances, bedding, home decor, outdoor living, and horticulture products. The company also provides fuel and financial services and related products, including money orders, prepaid cards, wire transfers, money transfers, check cashing, and bill payment. In addition, it offers brand name merchandise, including hardgoods, softgoods, and selected private-label items, such as Member’s Mark. As of January 31, 2016, it operated 11,865 stores under 63 banners in 28 countries and e-commerce Websites in 11 countries. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. was founded in 1945 and is headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas.