Walmart posts Q4 beat but flags a cautious year ahead

Walmart beat fourth-quarter revenue and profit estimates and reported 4.6% U.S. same-store sales growth; the company maintained a cautious full-year outlook citing trade uncertainty and labour market conditions.

Walmart beat fourth-quarter revenue and profit estimates and kept a cautious outlook for the full year, citing trade uncertainty and labour market conditions. The retailer reported 4.6% growth in U.S. same-store sales and continued momentum in e-commerce, with online sales up about 27% in the quarter and a U.S. gross merchandise volume near $100 billion. Sam's Club profitability came in line with expectations. UBS analyst Michael Lasser said the results were largely in line with expectations and reflect steady execution. Key facts: - Walmart beat fourth-quarter revenue and profit estimates. - The company maintained a cautious full-year outlook, citing trade uncertainty and labour market conditions. - U.S. same-store sales rose 4.6% in the quarter. - Online sales grew about 27% and Walmart's U.S. online GMV is around $100 billion. - Sam's Club profitability was in line with expectations. - UBS analyst Michael Lasser said the results reflected steady execution and left room for potential upside if consumer trends remain stable. Summary: The results point to continued stability in Walmart's core retail business alongside strong e-commerce growth. Management's cautious guidance highlights external risks such as trade and the labour market. Analysts noted the results matched expectations and said tax refunds and consumer behaviour will be watched in the coming weeks.