Walmart Inc. shares jumped Thursday after the retail giant delivered a standout third quarter, fueled by double-digit global eCommerce growth and steady US demand.
The stock climbed 6.5 percent to USD107.11 as investors cheered results that outpaced expectations. Revenue for the quarter ended Oct. 31 rose 6 percent in constant currency to USD179.5 billion, powered by a 27 percent leap in global eCommerce sales driven by store-fulfilled pickup, delivery, and a fast-expanding marketplace.
In the US, comparable sales rose 4.5 percent, showing broad strength across categories even as consumers remain cautious. Walmart also notched a sharp 53 percent increase in global advertising revenue and a 17 percent rise in membership income—two higher-margin businesses the company has been aggressively scaling.
Operating income slipped 0.2 percent due to a non-cash share-based compensation charge at PhonePe tied to a potential initial public offering. Excluding such items, adjusted operating income climbed 8 percent in constant currency, with adjusted earnings per share landing at USD0.62.
Confidence in its momentum prompted Walmart to raise its fiscal 2026 guidance. The company now expects net sales growth of 4.8 percent to 5.1 percent and adjusted operating income growth of 4.8 percent to 5.5 percent. Adjusted EPS is projected at USD2.58 to USD2.63, including a small currency drag.
President and chief executive officer Doug McMillon hailed eCommerce as a “bright spot” and said the company is “well-positioned for a strong finish to the year and beyond,” while expressing confidence in incoming leader John Furner.
