Walmart (NYSE:WMT) is preparing to report its fiscal Q2 2026 earnings on August 21. However, analysts are cautiously optimistic about Walmart stock. The company expects net sales growth of 3.5% to 4.5%, aided by a small lift from its VIZIO acquisition. However, Walmart has opted not to provide EPS or operating income guidance, citing ongoing tariff-related uncertainty. Despite this caution, Wall Street remains bullish on Walmart stock. The consensus forecast for Q2 earnings per share (EPS) is $0.72, a 7.5% year-over-year (YOY) increase. Analysts also see full-year EPS rising to $2.60, with projections of $2.90 in fiscal 2027 — a solid 11.5% growth.
Walmart’s Digital Growth Is a Game-Changer
A key driver of the Walmart stock forecast is its e-commerce momentum. In Q1, Walmart’s global e-commerce sales surged 22% YOY, with U.S. growth of 21%, Sam’s Club up 27%, and international markets rising 20%. This growth stems from rising demand for pickup, delivery, and third-party marketplace offerings.
Walmart’s ability to blend physical stores with online efficiency is helping it capture market share — even from higher-end retailers. Increasingly, affluent consumers are shopping at Walmart for both value and convenience.
Dividend Reliability Adds Long-Term Value
For income-focused investors, the Walmart stock forecast also shines thanks to its dividend history. Walmart has increased its dividend for 52 consecutive years, placing it among the rare Dividend Kings.
Currently, the company pays a $0.94 annual dividend, yielding 0.95%. While that yield may seem modest, its 34% payout ratio allows for future dividend growth, making it a rock-solid choice for conservative portfolios.
Risk Factors to Watch
While the outlook is mostly positive, the Walmart stock forecast isn’t without its risks. CFO John David Rainey recently warned that higher tariffs could pressure margins, potentially derailing earnings momentum. As the U.S. trade landscape remains volatile, investors should be prepared for short-term bumps.
Still, history shows that Walmart performs well in downturns, often gaining ground while competitors struggle. That resilience is part of what makes WMT a long-term favorite.
Analyst Sentiment on Walmart Stock
As of now, Walmart stock holds a “Strong Buy” consensus rating from 36 analysts. Among them, 29 rate it a Strong Buy, six a Moderate Buy, and one a Hold.
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Average price target: $110.86 (12.5% upside)
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High-end target: $120 (22% upside)
With a strong balance sheet, robust online growth, and a reliable dividend, the Walmart stock forecast remains positive — especially for patient investors.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy Walmart Stock Now?
As the August 21 earnings date nears, the spotlight returns to Walmart. While short-term uncertainties persist, the long-term Walmart stock forecast remains solid. With its unique blend of scale, innovation, and defensive appeal, Walmart continues to prove it belongs in any well-balanced portfolio.
For investors seeking value, stability, and steady growth, Walmart (NYSE:WMT) deserves serious consideration — now more than ever.
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