Walmart to take a measured approach in 2026 as Furner era begins

New CEO John Furner will speak for the first time this quarter as Walmart, which recently passed $1 trillion in market value, is widely expected to give cautious guidance amid a fragile consumer backdrop.

Investors have been upbeat about Walmart as the company prepares to report quarterly results. New CEO John Furner took the helm at the start of the month and will speak to investors for the first time this quarter. Wall Street expects management to provide measured annual guidance amid a fragile consumer landscape. The retailer recently crossed $1 trillion in market value, a milestone noted in recent coverage. Key facts: - Walmart's market value surpassed $1 trillion in early February. - John Furner became CEO at the start of February and will address investors for the first time this quarter. - Analysts say management historically has given conservative initial guidance and expect a measured outlook this time. - The company's price-to-earnings valuation is around 45, higher than many peers. - Walmart appointed David Guggina as president and CEO of Walmart U.S. and is emphasizing AI-led digital changes, including a partnership with OpenAI. - The retailer has expanded its online marketplace, launched one-hour delivery and Walmart+, built a roughly $4 billion advertising business, and saw store visits strengthen late in 2025. Summary: Walmart enters 2026 under new leadership and with a larger market valuation, while continuing investments in AI and digital services. Investors and analysts will watch the upcoming quarterly report and Furner's remarks for the company's initial guidance and signals on how strategy and consumer trends may influence near-term performance.