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The fund employs an indexing investment approach designed to track the performance of the MSCI US Investable Market Index/Consumer Staples 25/50, an index made up of stocks of large, mid-size, and small U.S. companies within the consumer staples sector, as classified under the Global Industry Classification Standard. The Advisor attempts to replicate the target index by seeking to invest all, or substantially all, of its assets in the stocks that make up the index, in order to hold each stock in approximately the same proportion as its weighting in the index. The fund is non-diversified.

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Mondelez International Inc. Class A

Altria Group Inc.

Colgate-Palmolive Co

Target Corp.

9 Things To Buy At Walmart Without Burning A Hole In Your Pocket

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Walmart Division Sam&#39;s Club boosts pay for frontline workers and provides guidance for their financial future. This leads to more productive and loyal employees. 

Walmart Division Sam&#39;s Club Raises Wages For Hourly Associates: A Strategic Move To Stay Ahead In Retail

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Target and Ross Stores expected to have better revenues in Q2 as consumers continue spending despite uncertainties, according to analysts.

Target, Ross Stores Expected To Post Higher Revenues As Consumers Stay Resilient: Analysts

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Walmart reports strong Q2 results and raises full-year guidance. Analysts optimistic about stock despite caution over consumer trends.

Walmart&#39;s Q4 Outlook Clouded by Consumer Spending Concerns: JP Morgan Analyst

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Sam&#8217;s Club, the&nbsp;$86 billion&nbsp;division of&nbsp;Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>), introduced a fresh workforce compensation plan, which boosted pay for close to 100,000 frontline associates and provided guidance for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/09/b40900897/sams-club-reimagines-workforce-compensation-launches-new-plan-focused-on-providing-more-predictabl" rel="noreferrer noopener">longer-term financial futures</a>.
More engaged workers proved productive, offered better service, and were more likely to stay, especially as competition heated up in the retail space.
Sam&#8217;s Club&#8217;s new plan proposes increasing associate hourly wages by 3%—6% based on years of service. The plan sets predictable pay increase milestones.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40902098">Evaluating Walmart Against Peers In Consumer Staples Distribution &amp; Retail Industry</a>
With these new compensation investments, the average hourly rate for Sam&#8217;s Club associates will likely exceed $19, with the potential to earn thousands of dollars annually in bonuses. In the last five years alone, Sam&#8217;s Club raised the average hourly wage by close to 30%.
In July, Walmart Canada raised the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39989702/walmart-canada-boosts-wages-for-40-000-workers-details" rel="noreferrer noopener">hourly wage for</a> close to 40,000 of its store associates amid easing inflation and rising unemployment in Canada. In June, the company announced bonuses for U.S. hourly store workers benefiting 700,000 front-line staff.
Amazon.Com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40792054/amazon-targets-walmarts-grocery-market-with-expanded-prime-discounts" rel="noreferrer noopener">aggressively chasing Walmart&#8217;s</a> U.S. grocery market share by expanding Prime benefits, including discounts on over 3,000 grocery items. Walmart led the U.S. grocery market with a 23.6% market share in 2023, as per&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/1450393/leading-grocery-store-by-market-share-us/#:~:text=U.S.:%20leading%20grocers%202023%2C%20by%20market%20share&amp;text=In%202023%2C%20the%20leading%2011,at%20just%20over%2010%20percent." rel="noreferrer noopener">Statista</a>.
Walmart reported <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/08/40391777/walmart-q2-earnings-e-commerce-and-advertising-businesses-fuel-revenue-and-profit-beat-hikes-annual" rel="noreferrer noopener">second-quarter sales</a> growth of 4.8% to&nbsp;$169.34 billion, beating the analyst consensus of&nbsp;$168.57 billion. At Sam&#8217;s Club, same-store sales rose&nbsp;5.2% year over year, excluding fuel.
Walmart stock is up 46% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWD#NYSE">IWD</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT stock is down 2.53% at $78.52 at last check Tuesday.
Image via Shutterstock

Walmart Division Sam's Club Raises Wages For Hourly Associates: A Strategic Move To Stay Ahead In Retail

Target Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) and Ross Stores, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROST#NYSE">ROST</a>) should <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40393307/why-is-target-corporation-stock-gaining-today">post better revenues</a> for the second quarter as consumers continue spending despite macro uncertainties, according to analysts from Tesley Advisory Group.
Analyst Joseph Feldman expects Target&#8217;s second-quarter revenue to improve 2% from a year ago to $25.3 billion when it reports earnings on Wednesday before the market opens. His forecast exceeds FactSet revenue consensus of $25.2 billion.
&#8220;Broadly, we believe consumers are showing resiliency as they continue to search for value and focus on essentials, while selectively spending on discretionary items and responding to innovation and newness,&#8221; Feldman wrote in a note on Target, commenting on shoppers in general.
Target continues to focus on its value-offering by cutting prices while offering private brands in new stores, he said.
Feldman maintains an Outperform rating and a $190 price target on Target shares.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/08/40393687/retail-sales-soar-in-july-weekly-jobless-claims-undercut-expectations-traders-lea">Retail Sales Soar In July, Weekly Jobless Claims Undercut Expectations: Traders Lean Towards 25-Basis-Point Cut In September</a>
Analyst Dana Tesley forecasts a 6.9% jump in year-over-year second quarter revenue for Ross Stores to $5.28 billion when it releases its results on Thursday after the market closes. Her expectation exceeds revenue consensus of $5.24 billion.
&#8220;We continue to be encouraged by ROST's string of strong results across the past five quarters, with the business navigating macro challenges relatively well despite outsized pressure on some of its core consumers,&#8221; she wrote in a note.
&#8220;We are encouraged by management's efforts to improve the product mix and drive efficiencies across the business.&#8221;
She maintains a Market Perform and $160 price target on the stock.
Price Action: Target gained 1.67% to close at $144.03 on Friday, while exchange-traded funds that track the stock also advanced.
<ul>
<li>VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) gained 0.61</li>
<li>Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) picked up 0.27%</li>
<li>Simplify Next Intangible Value Index ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NXTV#BATS">NXTV</a>) edged up 0.15%</li>
<li>Federated Hermes U.S. Strategic Dividend ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FDV#NYSE">FDV</a>) went up 0.41%</li>
<li>Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) gained 0.32%</li>
</ul>
Ross Stores slipped 0.27% to close at $147.40 on Friday, while ETFs that follow its shares had mixed results.
<ul>
<li>VictoryShares THB Mid Cap ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MDCP#NASDAQ">MDCP</a>) rose 0.52%</li>
<li>BlackRock Future U.S. Themes ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BTHM#NYSE">BTHM</a>) slipped 0.03%</li>
<li>IShares U.S. Consumer Focused ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEDI#BATS">IEDI</a>) moved up 0.24%</li>
<li>LG QRAFT AI-Powered U.S. Large Cap Core ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LQAI#NYSE">LQAI</a>) remained unchanged</li>
<li>Invesco S&amp;P 500 Equal Weight Consumer Discretionary ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RSPD#NYSE">RSPD</a>) rose 0.29%</li>
</ul>
Read Now: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/retail-sales/24/06/39366813/retail-sales-preview-may-numbers-expected-to-rise-as-consumers-feeling-more-positive">Retail Sales Preview: May Numbers Expected To Rise As Consumers &#8216;Feeling More Positive&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>

Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) shares are trading higher on Thursday after the company announced&nbsp;strong&nbsp;second-quarter 2025 results&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/08/b40390393/walmart-reports-strong-revenue-growth-of-4-8-with-operating-income-growing-faster-at-8-5-adjusted-" rel="noreferrer noopener">and raised full-year&nbsp;guidance</a>.
The retailer reported adjusted EPS&nbsp;of&nbsp;$0.67&nbsp;(+9.8%&nbsp;Y/Y),&nbsp;beating the consensus of&nbsp;$0.64 and sales of&nbsp;$169.34 billion, surpassing the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40391777" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus of&nbsp;$168.57 billion</a>.
Walmart expects&nbsp;third-quarter&nbsp;adjusted EPS of&nbsp;$0.51 to $0.52&nbsp;versus a consensus of&nbsp;$0.55, and its net sales to grow 3.25% &#8211; 4.25% in CC.
JP Morgan analyst Christopher Horvers has an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/wmt/analyst-ratings">Overweight rating on WMT.</a> The analyst anticipates a positive stock price reaction today, given concerns about the consumer market and fears of a slowdown at the end of the second quarter, coupled with strong gross margins exceeding Street expectations in both the U.S. and international markets.  
This assumes management adequately addresses the third-quarter timing shift mentioned, writes the analyst. Horvers adds that the absence of an upgrade to implied fourth-quarter estimates likely reflects caution over consumer trends and uncertainties in the second half due to known headwinds.
The analyst says that the third-quarter guidance accounts for the timing of festive events in the international segment and planned expenses. This includes the impact of FK&#8217;s Big Billion Days events, which frequently shift between the third and fourth quarters (as seen in 2023).
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) and&nbsp;SPDR Select Sector Fund – Consumer Staples (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are up 6.55% at $73.15 at the last check Thursday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo via Shutterstock
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/40400422" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goldman Sachs Offloads Ireland&#8217;s Largest Mall To Strategic Value Partners: Report</a></li>
</ul>

Walmart's Q4 Outlook Clouded by Consumer Spending Concerns: JP Morgan Analyst

Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) Walmart Canada disclosed it raised the hourly <a target="_blank" href="https://www.walmartcanada.ca/news/2024/07/25/walmart-canada-raising-store-associate-wages--investing-in-techn" rel="noreferrer noopener">wage </a>earlier this month for approximately 40,000 store associates to remain competitive in providing attractive compensation in its operating markets.
The wage hike is part of Walmart Canada&#8217;s broader strategy to develop talent, modernize work processes, and strengthen its workplace culture.
In addition to wage increases, Walmart Canada has invested in digital handheld devices for store associates. These devices enhance customer service by allowing associates to quickly locate items and communicate more efficiently.
Walmart Canada&#8217;s compensation package includes an annual incentive bonus, enhanced health and dental benefits, mental health care, and gender affirmation care.
Associates also have access to 24/7 virtual care and employee assistance programs through TELUS Health, as well as a Walmart discount card for 10% savings on groceries and general merchandise.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39729844/how-walmart-is-planning-to-boost-perishables-distribution-read-to-know" rel="noreferrer noopener">How Walmart Is Planning To Boost Perishables Distribution? Read To Know</a>
Through the Live Better U (LBU) educational program, Walmart covers 100% of tuition, books, and course fees for associates and has already benefitted over 3,000 associates.
&#8220;We&#8217;re on a journey of developing our talent, simplifying and modernizing how we work, investing in our teams, and strengthening our culture,&#8221;&nbsp;said Chief People Officer, Walmart Canada, AnnMarie Mercer.
The development follows similar investments made in recent months for U.S. store workers, aimed at retaining more employees, reported Reuters.
In February, Walmart increased the average annual salary and<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36837656/walmarts-store-managers-stand-to-gain-20k-in-stock-annually-exceeding-525k-in-total-compensation" rel="noreferrer noopener"> bonus for U.S. store managers</a>.
Additionally, in June, the company announced bonuses for U.S. hourly store workers, including those in pharmacies and Vision Centers, benefiting 700,000 front-line staff.
Related: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39188408/walmart-sweetens-the-deal-for-hourly-employees-with-annual-bonuses-and-skill-upgrades-details" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart Sweetens The Deal For Hourly Employees with Annual Bonuses And Skill Upgrades: Details</a>
The recent move comes amid easing inflation and rising unemployment in Canada. Walmart Canada operates over 400 stores nationwide, employing more than 100,000 associates.
Walmart stock has gained more than 31% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and&nbsp;Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are trading lower by 0.21% at $69.87 at last check Friday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image from Shutterstock
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39803132/amazon-to-surpass-walmart-this-year-as-largest-us-retailer-analyst" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon To Surpass Walmart This Year As Largest US Retailer: Analyst</a></li>
</ul>

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Walmart Canada Boosts Wages for 40,000 Workers: Details

Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) is likely to invest $200 million in self-driving forklifts to automate more of its warehouse operations.
The world&#8217;s largest retailer plans to buy potentially hundreds of autonomous forklifts from Fox Robotics, with whom it has already invested $25 million, reported Reuters citing sources.
This move is part of Walmart&#8217;s broader strategy to increase automation and compete with Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>).
Walmart&#8217;s plan includes exclusive deals with robotics vendors like Fox Robotics and Symbotic Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYM#NASDAQ">SYM</a>). These agreements will also restrict Walmart&#8217;s competitors from using the technology.
Walmart spokesperson Camille Dunn confirmed that the company is piloting the technology with 19 FoxBots in four facilities.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39729844/how-walmart-is-planning-to-boost-perishables-distribution-read-to-know">How Walmart Is Planning To Boost Perishables Distribution? Read To Know</a>
In recent years, Walmart has focused on robotics to manage costs and keep product prices low. Analysts from Jefferies estimate that Walmart could add $20 billion to its profit before interest and taxes by fiscal 2029 due to automation and AI efforts.
Walmart&#8217;s deal with Symbotic, announced in 2022, involves implementing automation in 42 distribution centers, where Walmart owns more than 13% of Symbotic stock.
FoxBots, tested for over a year, can unload pallets and integrate them into Symbotic&#8217;s automated system. Fox Robotics claims a single operator can manage up to six autonomous forklifts, reducing labor costs by 40%. 
Walmart stock has gained more than 29% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain access to the stock via the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are trading lower by 0.91% at $69.38 at last check Friday.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39803132/amazon-to-surpass-walmart-this-year-as-largest-us-retailer-analyst">Amazon To Surpass Walmart This Year As Largest US Retailer: Analyst</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Walmart Considers $200M Bet On Self-Driving Forklifts To Boost Automation

Philip Morris International Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PM#NYSE">PM</a>) has announced a $600 million investment through one of its U.S. affiliates to establish a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/07/b39789795/philip-morris-international-u-s-affiliate-to-create-500-jobs-investing-600-million-in-aurora-colo-" rel="noreferrer noopener">manufacturing facility in Aurora, Colorado</a>.
The new plant, expected to create 500 direct jobs and generate $550 million in annual economic impact, will also add 1,000 indirect jobs as it produces Swedish Match ZYN nicotine pouches to meet the rising demand for smoke-free products among legal-age consumers.
PMI aims to shift adult smokers in the U.S. away from traditional cigarettes by enhancing its U.S. manufacturing capabilities.
PMI Americas President and U.S. CEO Stacey Kennedy said, &#8220;We believe Colorado is likeminded in its commitment to innovation, economic opportunity and public health, and we&#8217;re eager to work with the state and its talented workforce as we expand our U.S. manufacturing presence.&#8221;
The new facility is scheduled to break ground later this year, with operations starting by the end of 2025 and full production in 2026.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39377842/whats-happening-with-tobacco-major-philip-morris-shares-on-tuesday" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swedish Match North America Subpoenaed Over DC Flavored Sales</a>
The construction phase will create nearly 5,000 jobs, contributig nearly $1 billion to the economy. The facility will offer various career opportunities, including engineering, production, technical, and quality control positions, with an average annual salary of approximately $90,000.
PMI&#8217;s Swedish Match North America division is also ramping up production at its Owensboro, Kentucky facility.
PMI entered the U.S. market after acquiring Swedish Match in late 2022. ZYN pouches offer a smoke-free alternative for legal-age nicotine users and have been available in the U.S. for over a decade.
PMI said its U.S. affiliates follow strict marketing practices, ensuring access is limited to adults 21 and older. They do not use social media influencers under 35 and employ age-verification systems like &#8220;Double Verify&#8221; to restrict digital advertising to the legal-age audience.
Philip Morris stock has gained more than 7% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: PM shares traded higher by 0.80% at $105.92 on Tuesday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39165115/philip-morris-international-raises-2024-earnings-outlook-expects-growth-despite-currency-impact" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Morris International Raises 2024 Earnings Outlook, Expects Growth Despite Currency Impact</a></li>
</ul>

Philip Morris Expands US Operations With $600M Colorado Plant

June&#8217;s U.S. retail sales report indicates that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/retail-sales">increasingly careful consumers </a>are still opening their wallets, despite a stagnant reading on Tuesday, economists say.
U.S. retail sales remained<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/bonds/24/07/39792320/june-retail-sales-stagnate-traders-fully-price-in-september-interest-rate-cut"> flat in June</a>, falling from an upwardly revised 0.3% growth in May to zero growth and matching the forecasted flat reading, according to preliminary estimates<a href="https://www.census.gov/retail/sales.html"> issued</a> on Tuesday.
&#8220;A more discerning consumer continues to spend,&#8221; Quincy Krosby, chief global strategist for LPL Financial, said on Tuesday.
&#8220;This morning&#8217;s retail report &#8212; coupled with positive revisions &#8212; suggests that the all-important U.S. consumer, while increasingly discerning regarding purchases, continues to spend at a resilient pace.&#8221;
She also noted that Treasury yields inched higher on the favorable print, but equity futures remain positive.
&#8220;This report doesn&#8217;t negate expectations that the Fed will cut rates at its September 18 meeting, unless of course inflation-related data releases indicate an uptick in prices,&#8221; she said.
&#8220;Today&#8217;s report should be positive for markets as investors prefer the launch of a Fed easing cycle to begin with a still solid economic backdrop,&#8221; Krosby added.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39381240/us-stocks-mixed-retail-sales-increase-0-1-in-may">US Stocks Mixed; Retail Sales Increase 0.1% In May</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">June Retail Sales Report: Key Highlights</h3>
<ul>
<li>On a year-over-year basis, retail sales rose by 2.3% in June, slowing from an upwardly revised 2.6% in May.</li>
<li>Excluding motor vehicle and parts, retail sales increased by 0.4% month-over-month, up from 0.1% in May and topping the expected 0.1%, according to TradingEconomics data.</li>
<li>Excluding gasoline, motor vehicle and parts, retail sales rose 0.8% month-over-month in June, beating expectations of 0.2% growth and advancing from an upwardly revised 0.3% gain in May.</li>
<li>Among different spending categories, the largest monthly increases were seen in nonstore retailers, with a 1.9% rise, followed by building material, garden equipment and supplies dealers, up 1.4%.</li>
<li>The largest monthly drops were seen in gasoline stations, down 3%, and motor vehicle and parts dealers, down 2%.</li>
</ul>
&#8220;Consumers are pulling back on some items but they still show signs of resilience,&#8221; Jeffrey Roach, chief economist for LPL Financial, said on Tuesday.
&#8220;Investors will get a better picture on the consumer in the upcoming personal income and spending release later this month. So far, those consumers who experienced strong real income growth continue to support the economy with their insatiable appetite to spend,&#8221; Roach added.
Price Action: Major retailers made modest gains on Tuesday morning. Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) edged up 0.42% to $69.92, while Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) gained 0.79% to $194.24 and The Home Depot Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HD#NYSE">HD</a>) was up 1.81% to $365.03.
Exchange-traded funds that track Walmart, the world&#8217;s largest retailer, were up following the retail sales report. The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) gained 0.45% as the Vanguard Consumer Staples Index Fund ETF Shares (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) gained 0.83%.
Read Now: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/retail-sales/24/06/39366813/retail-sales-preview-may-numbers-expected-to-rise-as-consumers-feeling-more-positive">Retail Sales Preview: May Numbers Expected To Rise As Consumers &#8216;Feeling More Positive&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Sector ETFs

Econ #s

Economics

Flat Retail Sales Report Shows 'A More Discerning Consumer' Keeps Spending, Economists Say

Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) should beat last year&#8217;s<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39770529/amazon-gears-up-for-prime-day-2024-with-2t-market-cap"> Prime Day results</a> due to &#8220;early access deals,&#8221; analysts say.
Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) expects sales for this year&#8217;s 48-hour sales spree to jump 7% to $13 billion, beating the 6.1% sales leap to $12.7 billion posted during last year&#8217;s Prime Day, CNBC report <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/07/13/amazon-prime-day-more-than-375-million-items-sold.html">citing</a> Adobe Analytics.
&#8220;In our view, this year&#8217;s press release was more focused on early access deals and discounted services than last year, which could pull forward some sales out of Prime Day(s),&#8221; the bank said in a note on Monday
Amazon will offer discounts on hundreds of items over the two days to consumers with Amazon Prime memberships, including 57% off an Amazon Fire HD tablet computer, 28% off a Kenmore electric oven and 37% off a 55-inch Amazon Fire TV, according to its website.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/07/39695135/analysts-see-upside-ahead-for-amazon-stock-as-prime-day-approaches">Analysts See Upside Ahead For Amazon Stock As Prime Day Approaches</a>
Bank of America noted that Amazon isn&#8217;t the only retailer holding July sales events. Retail giant Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) just held a deal event that ended July 11. Target Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) held a &#8220;Circle Week&#8221; promotion that closed on July 13. TikTok Shop is holding a &#8220;Deal for You Days&#8221; that began on July 9.
Bank of America maintains a Buy rating and price target of $194.49 for Amazon.
Price Action: Amazon edged up 0.28% to $195.04 by late-morning trading on Monday. Walmart edged up 0.84% to $69.82. 
Exchange-traded funds that hold both Amazon and Walmart shares, however, trended downward.
Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) slipped 0.01%, while Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSTA#NYSE">FSTA</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) both dipped 0.08%. ProShares Ultra Consumer Staples (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SZK#NYSE">SZK</a>) declined 0.70% and Van Eck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) slipped 0.19%.
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</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

FSTA

Amazon Set To Top Last Year's Prime Day Results Due To Early Deals, Analysts Say

Walmart (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) is planning to take steps to enhance <a target="_blank" href="https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2024/07/10/walmarts-grocery-network-transformation-the-next-steps-on-our-supply-chain-modernization-journey" rel="noreferrer noopener">customer </a>satisfaction by expanding its grocery network with advanced technology and focusing on creating a more connected supply chain to ensure faster product availability.
The retail giant is constructing five new perishable distribution centers (DCs) with high-tech capabilities. The first, operational since 2021, is located in Shafter, California.
Additional centers in Lancaster, Texas; Wellford, South Carolina; Belvidere, Illinois; and Pilesgrove, New Jersey, will collectively add around 2,000 jobs to local communities.
These new distribution centers (DCs) will handle temperature-sensitive items like milk, meat, vegetables, and fruits that can spoil quickly, reported Reuters.
Also, Walmart is expanding four traditional perishable DCs, each gaining over 500,000 square feet of automation to boost fresh product capacity.
These expansions are taking place in Mankato, Minnesota; Mebane, North Carolina; Garrett, Indiana; and Shelbyville, Tennessee.
Walmart&#8217;s Winter Haven, Florida perishable DC is undergoing upgrades to integrate the latest technology. This retrofit aims to test the feasibility of updating existing grocery buildings with automation, similar to the company&#8217;s ambient distribution center in Brooksville, Florida.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39613518/walmart-explores-sale-of-closed-health-clinics-to-recoup-investments-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart Explores Sale Of Closed Health Clinics To Recoup Investments: Report</a>
The introduction of state-of-the-art technology in facilities aims to increase speed and capacity, enhancing reliability for customers.
High-tech DCs can store double the cases and process more than twice the volume of traditional perishable DCs, significantly improving efficiency.
This investment in technology supports Walmart&#8217;s goal of providing quick delivery and pickup services for groceries, utilizing its stores to fulfill online orders, reported Reuters.
Walmart, the largest grocery retailer in the U.S., generates<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/05/38869341/walmars-q1-earnings-revenue-and-eps-beat-more-members-and-high-income-households-raised-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener"> nearly $650 billion in annual sales</a>, with groceries accounting for 60% of its revenue, per the report.
By the end of its fiscal year 2026, Walmart aims for about 65% of its stores to be serviced by automation, further streamlining its supply chain and improving efficiency.
Walmart stock has gained more than 36% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are trading lower by 0.17% at $70.29 at premarket at last check Thursday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image from Shutterstock
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How Walmart Is Planning To Boost Perishables Distribution? Read To Know

Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) has reportedly entered discussions with prospective buyers to offload its recently closed medical clinics.
In April, Walmart announced the shutdown of all 51 of its health clinics and terminated its virtual healthcare services, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/04/38529328/walmart-to-shut-down-all-clinic-locations-amid-rising-costs-what-it-means-for-your-healthcare" rel="noreferrer noopener">citing the unsustainable nature of the business model.</a>
The retail giant is now exploring options to recover some of its investments in the clinics, engaging in conversations with various entities, including health insurance company Humana Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), reported Reuters.
Walmart has expressed its aim to recoup investments through a sale or other takeover arrangements. Although it&#8217;s unclear whether these discussions are still active, the company intends to recover part of the extensive capital poured into the clinics.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39330360/walmart-relaunches-no-boundaries-fashion-line-to-attract-gen-z-customers" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart Relaunches &#8216;No Boundaries&#8217; Fashion Line To Attract Gen Z Customers</a>
Last week, Walmart sold its virtual care subsidiary, MeMD, to healthcare technology startup Fabric, though the financial details of this transaction were not disclosed.
The retailers revenue for first quarter of 2025 totaled $161.51 billion, up 6.0% year over year, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/05/38869341/walmars-q1-earnings-revenue-and-eps-beat-more-members-and-high-income-households-raised-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener">beating the consensus of $159.50 billion.</a>
The adjusted EPS&nbsp;was $0.60, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $0.52.
Walmart stock has gained more than 29% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares closed higher by 0.87% at $68.07 on Tuesday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo by Sundry Photography on Shutterstock
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Asset Sales

Walmart Explores Sale Of Closed Health Clinics To Recoup Investments: Report

As the November election approaches, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are offering two very <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/06/39556388/joe-biden-to-be-replaced-in-2024-election-newsom-tops-democrat-wish-list-betting-odds-but-">different tax policies</a> for the American people when one of them steps into the Oval Office in late January 2025.
If elected, Trump would uphold his 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which features a corporate tax rate of 21% and lower taxes for individuals that dropped the tax rate for top earners from 39.6% to 37%.
The policy, which will expire in 2025, also nearly doubled standard deductions to $14,600 for single filers to $29,200 for married filers, FOX Business <a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/trump-vs-biden-where-presidential-candidates-stand-taxes">reported</a>. 
If Biden stays in office for a second term, he said he would let Trump&#8217;s tax cuts for the wealthy expire, while holding onto reductions for those making less than $400,000. 
Also Read: <a href="http://Joe Biden's Debate Performance Triggers Democratic Panic: 'Biden Sounds Hoarse, Looks Tired And Is Babbling'">Joe Biden&#8217;s Debate Performance Triggers Democratic Panic: &#8216;Biden Sounds Hoarse, Looks Tired And Is Babbling&#8217;</a>
Biden also proposes returning the top individual income tax rate from 37% to 39.6%, implementing a 25% minimum tax rate on households worth more than $100 million and increasing the capital gains tax rate. 
His policy also includes quadrupling the corporate stock buyback tax to 4%, raising the corporate tax rate to 28% and boosting the Medicare tax paid by wealthy Americans.
During Thursday&#8217;s presidential debate, Trump heralded his tax plan as creating the greatest economy the U.S. has ever seen before the COVID-19 pandemic, while Biden criticized it as a $2 trillion tax policy that benefited the very wealthy.
&#8220;What I'm going to do is fix the tax system,&#8221; Biden said during the debate, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/27/politics/read-biden-trump-debate-rush-transcript/index.html">according</a> to a CNN transcript.
Biden also knocked Trump&#8217;s proposed 10% tariff on all imports, saying it would cost the average American at least $2,500 a year as a result in higher prices for food and other goods.
Price Action: Stocks and exchange-traded funds in the tax-preparation and financial sectors, both of which can be sensitive to tax-policy changes, gave mixed reactions on Friday to the proposals being offered by Biden and Trump. 
H&amp;R Block Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HRB#NYSE">HRB</a>) gained 0.67% to reach $53.89 by late-afternoon trading on Friday, while Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTU#NASDAQ">INTU</a>) edged up 0.90% to $567.30 and Morgan Stanley (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MS#NYSE">MS</a>) improved 0.77% to $96.51.
Shares U.S. Financials ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYF#NYSE">IYF</a>) ticked up 0.27%, but Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) fell 0.55% in the late afternoon and Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLU#NYSE">XLU</a>) dipped 1.28%.
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Photo: Shutterstock

Government

Politics

Markets

Personal Finance

INTU

iShares Dow Jones US Financial Sector Index Fund

Who Wins, Who Loses? Biden and Trump's Tax Policies Are Very Different

Tobacco major Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PM#NYSE">PM</a>) is trading <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket" rel="noreferrer noopener">lower in premarket today</a>.
Swedish Match North America LLC (SMNA), an affiliate of Philip Morris, received a subpoena from the Attorney General of the District of Columbia, requesting details on SMNA&#8217;s adherence to D.C.'s ban on the sale of flavored products, particularly <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/39368099" rel="noreferrer noopener">focusing on ZYN nicotine pouches.</a>
Early investigations revealed that flavored nicotine pouches have been sold in D.C., mainly through online platforms and some independent retailers.
In response, Philip Morris has directed SMNA to conduct a thorough review of its sales and distribution channels in D.C. and other areas affected by flavor restrictions.
As a preliminary action, SMNA has suspended online sales on ZYN.com while continuing its investigation.
The company has emphasized that all sales through ZYN.com are age-restricted, ensuring that only adults aged 21 and over can access the products.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39165115/philip-morris-international-raises-2024-earnings-outlook-expects-growth-despite-currency-impact" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Morris International Raises 2024 Earnings Outlook, Expects Growth Despite Currency Impact</a>
Should the inquiry conclude unfavorably, SMNA could face substantial financial liabilities, though the exact amount is currently indeterminate.
Zyn products, which resemble tea bags, are designed to deliver nicotine by being placed between the gum and upper lip. Notably, these pouches do not contain tobacco, setting them apart from traditional tobacco products, reported <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-06-18/philip-morris-halts-us-online-sale-of-zyn-pouches-after-subpoena?srnd=industries-consumer&amp;sref=TBDibEcD" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg</a>.
The response to this regulatory action in D.C. might prompt similar measures in other states and localities. Currently, approximately 400 localities and five states have imposed bans or restrictions on flavored tobacco and nicotine products.
The report further mentioned that the product has also attracted criticism from influential figures such as U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who has accused the company of targeting young consumers with these flavored nicotine products.
Philip Morris stock has gained more than 7% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: PM shares are trading lower by 2.89% at $99.10 in premarket at last check Tuesday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/04/38500368/philip-morris-ambitious-plans-for-heated-tobacco-gains-traction-among-analysts-and-investors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Morris&#8217; Ambitious Plans for Heated Tobacco Gains Traction Among Analysts and Investors</a>
Photo via Shutterstock

Movers

What's Happening With Tobacco Major Philip Morris Shares On Tuesday?

Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) is set to revitalize its major fashion label, No Boundaries, worth $2 billion, targeting young adults with a fresh line of apparel that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/06/b39319207/walmart-relaunches-no-boundaries-its-2b-modern-fashion-brand-designed-for-gen-z" rel="noreferrer noopener">blends modern design with affordability</a>.
As the new academic year approaches, this overhaul aims to cater primarily to the back-to-school and college crowd.
With a strategic focus on the youth market, Walmart has now introduced a specialized design team for the first time to elevate the No Boundaries collection.
The team, composed of seasoned experts in Gen Z fashion, will guide the brand toward appealing directly to younger shoppers.
&#8220;There&#8217;s a huge opportunity for Walmart to reach a Gen Z customer with a brand that has both incredible style and unbelievable prices,&#8221; said Senior Vice President of Walmart U.S. fashion brands Jen Jackson Brown.
&#8220;We have 145 million U.S. customers shopping with us in stores and online each week, and the new No Boundaries brand is designed and marketed with intention to reach this young adult audience by focusing on fit, quality, style and fabrics that resonate with them.&#8221;
According to company surveys, a significant portion of Gen Z customers prefer versatile pieces that reflect their personal style.
The redesigned No Boundaries line promises to meet these preferences with its casual, trendy gear that encourages self-expression.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/06/39188408/walmart-sweetens-the-deal-for-hourly-employees-with-annual-bonuses-and-skill-upgrades-details" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart Sweetens The Deal For Hourly Employees with Annual Bonuses And Skill Upgrades: Details</a>
The collection, launching on July 16th, will showcase 130 new items across various categories, including men&#8217;s and women&#8217;s wear, footwear, and accessories.
Highlight pieces feature contemporary styles like baggy jeans and oversized sweat sets, crafted from premium materials such as lux fleece and authentic denim.
Moreover, the line will introduce eco-friendly innovations like plant-based bra pads derived from sugarcane.
With 80% of the No Boundaries items priced under $15, Walmart wants to make fashion accessible to a broad demographic, ensuring that style does not come at a premium.
The No Boundaries brand will also expand its presence online and through social media, including an innovative partnership with Roblox Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RBLX#NYSE">RBLX</a>), where users can purchase virtual outfits mirroring the physical collection.
This move taps into the digital-native habits of Gen Z, integrating fashion with popular gaming platforms.
Walmart stock has gained more than 27% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares were trading lower by 0.15% at $66.60 premarket at the last check on Friday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo by Sundry Photography on Shutterstock

RBLX

Walmart Relaunches 'No Boundaries' Fashion Line To Attract Gen Z Customers

Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) has announced it will provide <a target="_blank" href="https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2024/06/05/the-investment-continues-walmart-launches-associate-bonuses-new-opportunities" rel="noreferrer noopener">bonuses </a>to eligible&nbsp;hourly U.S. store workers, with a potential of up to $1,000 a year.
Both part-time and full-time associates will qualify for the annual bonus program, which stemmed from employee feedback, according to John Furner, CEO of Walmart U.S.
The store workers include those at its pharmacy and Vision Center outlets. The retailer&#8217;s move aims to enhance wages for approximately 700,000 front-line employees, reported Reuters.
Furner emphasized the significance of maintaining competitive base wages, ahead of the company&#8217;s annual shareholder meeting.
Employees must have a year of tenure to be eligible, and bonuses will be based on store performance metrics.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/39093612/walmarts-self-checkout-glitch-leads-to-widespread-mispricing" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart&#8217;s Self-Checkout Glitch Leads to Widespread Mispricing</a>
As of the end of FY2024, Walmart employed approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide, with approximately 1.6 million associates in the U.S. Its minimum hourly wage begins at $14.
This is lower than the $15 starting wages offered by Amazon.com (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and Target (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>). Additionally, the company increased the average salary and bonus <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36837656/walmarts-store-managers-stand-to-gain-20k-in-stock-annually-exceeding-525k-in-total-compensation" rel="noreferrer noopener">for its U.S. store managers starting February 1.</a>
The U.S. labor market remains tight, with the Labor Department&#8217;s latest report indicating a slower-than-expected job growth in April and annual wage increases falling below 4% for the first time in nearly three years, per the report.
&#8220;We are seeing a decrease in (store worker) turnover,&#8221; Furner said, which the report noted.
Walmart also introduced the &#8216;Associate to Technician&#8217; certification program to assist employees in transitioning to higher-paying technical roles.
This program targets fields such as refrigeration, cooling maintenance, facilities maintenance, and automation technician roles, where the company faces shortages.
According to Lo Stomski, Walmart&#8217;s chief talent officer, this initiative aims to increase the technician workforce from about 450 to around 2,000 over the next two years, the report added.
&#8220;These jobs make between $19 and $45 an hour and offer opportunities to build a meaningful career,&#8221; Stomski said.
Walmart stock has gained more than 33% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are trading higher by 0.13% at $66.69 at the last check Wednesday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Walmart Sweetens The Deal For Hourly Employees with Annual Bonuses And Skill Upgrades: Details

Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) faced a significant technical issue in March, leading to widespread mispricing across its self-checkout systems.
The glitch, which occurred on March 19, resulted in customers being charged incorrect prices for various items.
Some prices were lower than listed, while others were higher. This incident affected 1,600 stores nationwide.
According to documents reviewed by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-05-29/walmart-files-show-wrong-prices-charged-at-1-600-stores-for-days?srnd=industries-v2&amp;sref=TBDibEcD" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg</a>, the problem arose from a failure in the system that updates product information for self-checkout kiosks.
Walmart acknowledged the error and stated that efforts to fix the issue had been ongoing for two days. Over 80% of affected customers being reimbursed.
However, the company did not disclose how many customers were overcharged or the total amount involved.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/05/38968202/walmart-launches-free-pet-telehealth-services-with-pawp-partnership-whats-the-perk" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walmart+ Launches Free Pet Telehealth Services With Pawp Partnership &#8211; What&#8217;s The Perk?</a>
The technical glitch caused confusion and frustration among shoppers who noticed discrepancies in the prices at self-checkout stands.
Walmart&#8217;s spokesperson, Mischa Dunton, told Bloomberg that the issue led to overcharges averaging 1.88% of the total basket size for affected customers.
Despite the company&#8217;s efforts to reimburse customers, legal experts suggest that the incident could violate consumer protection laws at both state and federal levels.
The pricing mishap is one of many technological challenges Walmart has faced recently. In February, cash register outages disrupted operations, and issues with photo and vision prescription orders were reported in March.
Legal experts stress the importance of a thorough investigation into the cause of the mispricing and assurances that such issues will not recur.
Walmart stock has gained more than 33% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: At the last check on Thursday, WMT shares were trading lower by 0.03% at $64.90.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Photo via Shutterstock

Walmart's Self-Checkout Glitch Leads to Widespread Mispricing

Yesterday,&nbsp;Target Corp&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) reported its&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/05/38961424/why-is-retail-giant-target-stock-plunging-today" rel="noreferrer noopener">first-quarter FY24 earnings</a>&nbsp;and the following are&nbsp;the comments&nbsp;on the same&nbsp;by different analysts.
BMO Capital &#8211; Reiterates Market Perform, lowers price target from $170.00 to $155.00
Analyst Kelly Bania said that while Target&#8217;s first-quarter results&nbsp;were in line&nbsp;with her expectations, investor expectations for continued GM% upside were&nbsp;clearly&nbsp;reigned in.
With&nbsp;signs of&nbsp;share losses widening in food&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;consumables, continued weakness in digital growth&nbsp;and signs of&nbsp;increasing same-day competition from&nbsp;Amazon.com Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and&nbsp;Walmart Inc&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>), the analyst lowered the price target to $155.
The analyst believes 6% EBIT margins remain the target, but the pace of achieving the target could take longer than expected.
Related: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38972097" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Target Blames &#8216;Strain On Consumer Wallet&#8217; For Tough Quarter</a>
RBC Capital Markets &#8211; Reiterated Outperform, lowers price target from $191.00 to $181.00
Analyst Steven Shemesh opined that with&nbsp;the majority&nbsp;of the easy gross margin wins in the rearview, the focus will shift back to demand trends /market share, for which visibility is&nbsp;fairly&nbsp;limited.&nbsp;
Consumer response to recent price cuts will be of particular importance, noted the analyst.
The analyst now estimates FY&#8217;24/FY&#8217;25 comp sales of +0.4%/+2.4% (+0.6%/ +3.3% prior) and EPS $9.50/$10.63 ($9.46/$10.60 prior).
Roth MKM &#8211; Reiterates Neutral, price target of $153.00
Physical comparable store sales have&nbsp;not improved&nbsp;with the passage of time&nbsp;(1Q&#8217;24 -4.8% y/y vs. 2Q&#8217;23 &#8211; 4.3% y/y), and the discretionary weakness/value seeking&nbsp;behavior and increased competition make growth uncertain, said the analyst.
For&nbsp;the holiday season and into FY&#8217;24, Target lost share against growing competitors, noted the analyst.
The analyst still sees headwinds from heavy overlap with Walmart should value-seeking increase, an aging store fleet&nbsp;and&nbsp;negative&nbsp;skew to regional population growth.
Though&nbsp;Target has an opportunity to monetize a growing, captive digital audience, digital sales are flat, said the analyst.
The analyst noted that profitability continues to improve&nbsp;y/y,&nbsp;but remains below pre-COVID levels, and the return to positive comp sales/ market share gains is uncertain.
Truist&nbsp;Securities &#8211; Reiterates Hold, lowers price target from $160.00 to $153.00
Analyst Scot Ciccarelli said the comp guide of&nbsp;0%-2% for both the second quarter and the year is the company&#8217;s worst&nbsp;2-year&nbsp;performance since the Great Recession, even as competitors continue to grow, suggesting notable share losses.
While the softer sales in many discretionary categories are working against the company, since this&nbsp;is in such contrast to&nbsp;competitors, such as Amazon and Walmart, it&nbsp;clearly&nbsp;signifies market share losses, according to the analyst.
The recent price cuts on&nbsp;high frequency&nbsp;items and the eventual&nbsp;add-back&nbsp;of inventory create additional margin risk, noted the analyst.
Although the stock seems inexpensive at current levels, the absence of momentum and additional earnings risk lead the analyst to stay on the sidelines.
The analyst lowered&#8217; 24/&#8217;25 EPS estimates to $9.30/$10.45 from $9.40/$10.60.
Target stock has lost 2% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Also&nbsp;See:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/38968794" rel="noreferrer noopener">Target&#8217;s Sales Decline And EPS Miss: Why Analysts Remain Optimistic</a>
Price Action: TGT shares are trading higher by 0.45% at $143.92 at the last check Thursday.
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Analysts Highlight Target's Market Share Struggles And Increased Competition: Details

Target Corp&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) reported a first-quarter FY24 sales decline of 3.1% year-on-year to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/05/38961424/why-is-retail-giant-target-stock-plunging-today" rel="noreferrer noopener">$24.531 billion and a comparable sales decline of 3.7%.</a>
The company posted an adjusted EPS of $2.03, missing the consensus estimate of $2.06.&nbsp;The following are&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TGT/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">reactions of analysts after&nbsp;the earnings.</a>
BofA Securities &#8211; Reiterates Buy, price target of $190.00
Analyst Robert F. Ohmes said the miss versus consensus in the adjusted EPS&nbsp;was driven&nbsp;by higher selling, general&nbsp;and&nbsp;administrative costs as a percentage of sales, as&nbsp;gross&nbsp;margin of 27.7% came in ahead.&nbsp;
The same-store sales decline included a 1.9% decline in both traffic &amp;&nbsp;ticket, noted the analyst.
While discretionary sales remained soft, sales trends continued to improve sequentially, led by an improvement of 4% in apparel versus F4Q24, asserted the analyst.
Also, digitally originated comp sales increased +1.4%, a positive inflection versus five consecutive quarters of digital declines, said the analyst.
While near-term sales remain pressured, the analyst notes TGT&#8217;s focus on value positions it well for share gains going forward.
Telsey Advisory Group &#8211; Reiterates Outperform, price target of $195.00
Analyst Joseph Feldman said that broadly, pressure remained on discretionary categories, partly offset by outperformance in beauty.
The analyst expects&nbsp;to see the comp&nbsp;return to positive territory in 2Q24 and ahead.
Longer&nbsp;term, the analyst said Target should gain market share, supported by ongoing strategies of price investments, private brands, new stores and remodels, fulfillment/supply chain enhancements, loyalty programs, digital, and Target + marketplace.
Target stock has lost more than 5% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;Consumer&nbsp;Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and&nbsp;Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: TGT shares are trading lower by 7.45% at $144.18 at the last check Wednesday.
Photo via Shutterstock

Target's Sales Decline And EPS Miss: Why Analysts Remain Optimistic

Retail giant&nbsp;Walmart Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) membership program&nbsp;Walmart+&nbsp;has announced a new&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/05/b38962370/walmart-and-pawp-team-up-to-unleash-247-pet-telehealth-benefit" rel="noreferrer noopener">benefit for its members in celebration of National Pet Month.&nbsp;</a>
Starting later this year, Walmart+ members will gain 24/7 virtual access to veterinary professionals through a partnership with&nbsp;Pawp, a digital health clinic for pets.&nbsp;
This addition aims to provide convenience and peace of mind&nbsp;to pet owners, especially as traditional veterinary costs rise and access to care becomes more challenging.
Walmart+ initially piloted Pawp as a limited-time offer last year, knowing that over&nbsp;75%&nbsp;of its members&nbsp;are pet owners.
Observing its popularity, the membership program&nbsp;decided to incorporate&nbsp;Pawp as a permanent feature to enhance member experience.
Pawp&#8217;s Key Features: Pawp connects pet owners with veterinary professionals for expert support, whether for a second opinion or general guidance. The service includes:
<ul>
<li>Affordable care: Free for Walmart+ members, saving $99 on standalone memberships.</li>
<li>Expert support: In-house veterinary team with at least five years of clinical experience.</li>
<li>24/7 access: Unlimited on-demand virtual visits via text and video.</li>
<li>Personalized plans: Post-visit care plans with product recommendations.</li>
</ul>
Marc Atiyeh, CEO of Pawp, said, &#8220;We&#8217;re excited to deepen this relationship by incorporating Pawp as an ongoing, first-of-its-kind pet health benefit for Walmart+ and look forward to supporting Walmart+ members with their&nbsp;pets&nbsp;care for years to come.&#8221;
Besides the new Pawp benefit, Walmart serves as a one-stop destination for pet needs, offering automatic deliveries on frequently purchased pet products, an online pet pharmacy, and a wide range of pet products at&nbsp;every day&nbsp;low prices.
Walmart+ is priced at $98 per year or $12.95 per month, offering&nbsp;a blend of&nbsp;digital and in-store benefits, including unlimited free deliveries, fuel and travel discounts, early access to promotions and events, Paramount+ streaming, and free home returns.
Walmart stock has gained more than 31% in the last 12 months.&nbsp;Investors can&nbsp;gain access to&nbsp;the stock via&nbsp;Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and&nbsp;Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>).
Price Action: WMT shares are trading higher by 0.26% at $65.32 at&nbsp;the last check Wednesday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo via Pixabay

Walmart+ Launches Free Pet Telehealth Services With Pawp Partnership - What's The Perk?

Beyond Meat Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BYND#NASDAQ">BYND</a>) is reportedly facing significant challenges as two of its early adopters,&nbsp;Carl&#8217;s Jr.&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jack In The Box Inc&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JACK#NASDAQ">JACK</a>) owned&nbsp;Del Taco Restaurants Inc., have removed its plant-based beef from many locations.
The shift reflects a decline in consumer interest in meat substitutes.
Most Carl&#8217;s Jr. outlets, which exceed 1,000 in number, stopped offering the Beyond Burger as of April 24, according to a report by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-05-20/carl-s-jr-and-del-taco-are-scaling-back-beyond-meat-products?srnd=industries-v2&amp;sref=TBDibEcD" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bloomberg</a>.&nbsp;
The chain&nbsp;initially&nbsp;launched the Beyond Burger in January 2019, marking one of Beyond Meat&#8217;s first major fast-food collaborations.&nbsp;
The CEO of Carl&#8217;s Jr.&#8217;s parent company, CKE Restaurants, had lauded the patty as an &#8220;industry game changer&#8221;&nbsp;at the time.
Although the Beyond Burger is&nbsp;largely&nbsp;off the menu now, a fried zucchini sandwich remains available at select locations,&nbsp;as&nbsp;per the report.
Similarly, Del Taco has discontinued Beyond Meat offerings across nearly 600 locations since last spring due to &#8220;low sales,&#8221;&nbsp;according to a Bloomberg source.&nbsp;
Nevertheless, Del Taco remains open to exploring innovative plant-based menu options with Beyond Meat. Del Taco began its partnership with Beyond Meat in 2019, proclaiming it&nbsp;as&nbsp;&#8220;the future of tacos.&#8221;
Once a favored choice on Wall Street, the company has seen its stock price plummet as it struggles to gain&nbsp;traction with consumers.&nbsp;
However, last week, the stock received fresh interest amid a rally in meme stocks after retail investor&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38827325/why-beyond-meats-stock-is-roaring-higher" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roaring Kitty made a return to social media.</a>
CEO Ethan Brown,&nbsp;in a recent earnings call, touted the fourth iteration of their burger as a &#8220;home run,&#8221;&nbsp;signaling the company&#8217;s hope to boost its fortunes by increasing prices.
The&nbsp;plant-based meat&nbsp;company&#8217;s first-quarter revenue decreased&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/05/38731541/whats-going-on-with-beyond-meat-shares-thursday" rel="noreferrer noopener">18% year-over-year to $75.603 million</a>.&nbsp;
Beyond Meat is banking on new product developments and pricing strategies to reverse its declining market performance.
Beyond Meat stock has lost more than 30% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) and&nbsp;IShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWO#NYSE">IWO</a>).
Price Action: BYND shares closed higher by 1.18% at $7.275 on Monday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo via Shutterstock

BYND

JACK

Beyond Meat Faces Setback As Carl's Jr. And Del Taco Drop Products: Report

Discount retailer Target Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) has decided not to sell LGBTQ-themed products in certain stores during Pride Month in June, following a previous backlash <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/pride-month">that impacted its revenue</a>.
What Happened: Target will offer its full range of LGBTQ+ merchandise online but is evaluating store-level data to determine which physical locations will carry these products.
A Target spokeswoman stated that the company will provide a selection of Pride items in select stores and online, based on customer feedback and market research.
The retailer began moving Pride displays to the back of its stores in certain Southern locations (i.e, semi-rural areas of Georgia, South Carolina and Arkansas) last year. This led to the removal of some products altogether after protestors reportedly tipped over displays.
Meanwhile, LGBTQ allies <a href="https://ncnewsline.com/2023/06/01/more-than-100-organizations-call-on-target-other-businesses-to-stand-up-to-anti-lgbtq-threats/">criticized</a> the Minneapolis-based company for not standing up against anti-LGBTQ activists.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/05/38640684/targets-ambitious-growth-beyond-borders-reportedly-broadens-sales-horizons-beyond-own-stores">Target&#8217;s Ambitious Growth Beyond Borders &#8211; Reportedly Broadens Sales Horizons Beyond Own Stores</a>
The decision for the upcoming Pride Month holds importance for Target, as previous backlash, combined with reduced demand for non-essential items, contributed to ongoing sales declines.
The company reported fourth-quarter FY23 revenue growth of 1.7% year-on-year to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/03/37478996/why-is-target-stock-trading-higher-today">$31.92 billion with an adjusted EPS of $2.98.</a>
Why It Matters: Some 510 anti-LGBTQ bills were introduced in state legislatures across the U.S. in 2023, per American Civil Liberties Union <a href="https://www.aclu.org/legislative-attacks-on-lgbtq-rights?impact=" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data</a>, an uptick from 2022.
Target and other major companies have emphasized their commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community, but face backlash from customer sects in certain states.
Chief Executive Officer Brian Cornell acknowledged the challenges faced by the company last year and expressed a commitment to learning from the experiences to better serve both employees and the LGBTQ+ community.
Target stock has more than 4% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VDC#NYSE">VDC</a>) and Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>).
Price Action: TGT shares are trading higher by .06% at $164.42 in premarket at the last check Friday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/04/38142678/target-introduces-truscan-tech-to-combat-self-checkout-theft-report">Target Introduces TruScan Tech To Combat Self-Checkout Theft: Report</a>
Image: Shutterstock

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Amid market volatility, investors seeking defensive options may consider robust ETFs like SPDR Gold (GLD), The Utilities Select Sector SPDR (XLU), and Vanguard Consumer Staples Index Fund (VDC). These ETFs are known for their stable demand and steady returns, making them attractive even during volatile market conditions. Read more... During market volatility, ETFs in gold, commodities, utilities, and consumer staples often perform well because they represent safer, defensive investments. Gold and commodities act as inflation hedges, while utilities and consumer staples offer stability since they provide essential services and goods that remain in demand regardless of economic conditions.
To that end, SPDR Gold Shares (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/GLD/">GLD</a>), The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/XLU/">XLU</a>), and Vanguard Consumer Staples Index Fund ETF Shares (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/VDC/">VDC</a>) could be great choices to hedge against market volatility.
Amid <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/09/03/investing/us-stocks-first-day-september/index.html">September's uncertainty</a>, the utility sector remains attractive for its defensive nature and resilience in volatile markets, as it provides essential services like electricity and water. Consumer staples such as food, beverages, and household goods also see steady demand. With expected <a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/us/us-consumer-prices-rise-moderately-august-2024-09-11/">interest rate cuts</a>, utility and consumer-focused ETFs may offer stability, appealing to risk-averse investors seeking consistent returns.
Furthermore, <a href="https://www.vaneck.com/us/en/blogs/gold-investing/gold-investing-outlook/#:~:text=In%202024%2C%20gold%20prices%20have,China%2C%20India%2C%20and%20Turkey.">gold performs well</a> in volatile markets due to its role as a safe-haven asset. It offers portfolio diversification, serves as a store of value, and hedges against systemic risks and inflation.
Given this backdrop, let's evaluate the aforementioned ETF picks for protection against volatility this September.
SPDR Gold Shares (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/GLD/">GLD</a>)
GLD is an exchange-traded fund launched and managed by World Gold Trust Services, LLC. The fund invests in commodity markets, specifically in gold. It tracks the performance of the price of gold bullion. SPDR Gold Trust was formed on November 12, 2004, and is domiciled in the United States. The investment seeks to reflect the performance of the price of gold bullion, minus the expenses of the Trust's operations.
With $70.18 billion in AUM, the fund has a total of one holding Gold with 100% weighting.
GLD has an expense ratio of 0.40%, lower than the category average of 0.48%. It currently has a <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/n/nav.asp">NAV</a> of $237.98. Its fund inflows came in at $4.36 billion over the past six months.
GLD has gained 33.1% over the past year and 26.9% over the past nine months to close the last trading session at $237.34.
GLD's strong outlook is reflected in its <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a>. The ETF has an overall rating of A, translating to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 different factors, each weighted to an optimal degree.
It has an A grade for Buy &amp; Hold and Trade and a B for Peer. It is ranked first out of 38 ETFs in the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/precious-metals-etfs/">Precious Metals ETFs</a> group. To see all the POWR Ratings for GLD, <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/GLD/">click here</a>.
The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/XLU/">XLU</a>)
XLU is an exchange-traded fund launched by State Street Global Advisors, Inc. It is managed by SSGA Funds Management, Inc. It invests in the public equity markets of the United States, specifically in stocks of companies operating across the utilities sector. It invests in both growth and value stocks of companies with diversified market capitalizations. The fund seeks to track the performance of the Utilities Select Sector Index by using a full replication technique.
With $18.48 billion in assets under management (AUM), XLU's top holding is NextEra Energy, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/NEE/">NEE</a>) with a 14.61% weighting, followed by Southern Company (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/SO/">SO</a>), with an 8.22% weighting, and Duke Energy Corporation (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/DUK/">DUK</a>) with 7.61% weighting. It has a total of 33 holdings.
XLU has an expense ratio of 0.09%, lower than the category average of 0.44%. It currently has a NAV of $78.53. Its fund inflows came in at $3.12 billion over the past six months.
The ETF pays an annual dividend of $2.19, which yields 2.77% on the current price. It has a four-year average dividend yield of 3.09%. Its dividend payouts have increased at a CAGR of 3.6% over the past three years and 3.5% over the past five years.
XLU has gained 24.9% over the year-to-date and 24.6% over the past six months to close the last trading session at $79.08.
XLU's POWR Ratings reflect this promising outlook. XLU's overall A rating equates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
XLU has an A grade for Buy &amp; Hold, Peer, and Trade. Of the 13 ETFs in the B-rated <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/utility-etfs/">Utility ETFs</a> group, it is ranked first. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/XLU/">Click here</a> to access all of XLU's POWR Ratings.
Vanguard Consumer Staples Index Fund ETF Shares (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/VDC/">VDC</a>)
VDC is an exchange-traded fund launched and managed by The Vanguard Group, Inc. The fund invests in the public equity markets of the United States, focusing on stocks of companies operating in the consumer staples sector. It invests in growth and value stocks across diversified market capitalizations. The fund seeks to track the performance of the MSCI US Investable Market Index (IMI)/Consumer Staples 25/50 by using the full replication technique.
With $7.31 billion in assets under management (AUM), VDC's top holding is Procter &amp; Gamble Company (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PG/">PG</a>) with an 11.48% weighting, followed by Costco Wholesale Corporation (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/COST/">COST</a>), with a 10.90% weighting, and Walmart Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/WMT/">WMT</a>), with 8.78%. It has a total of 106 holdings.
VDC has an expense ratio of 0.10%, lower than the category average of 0.46%. It currently has a NAV of $220.64. Its fund inflows came in at $169.82 million over the past three months.
VDC pays an annual dividend of $5.22, which yields 2.38% on the current price. It has a four-year average dividend yield of 2.41%. Its dividend payouts have increased at a CAGR of 5.7% over the past three years and 7.4% over the past five years.
VDC has gained 8.2% over the year-to-date and 21.4% over the past nine months to close the last trading session at $219.79.
VDC's POWR Ratings reflect its promising prospects. The ETF's overall A rating equates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
VDC has an A grade for Buy &amp; Hold, Peer, and Trade. In the B-rated <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/consumer-focused-etfs/">Consumer-Focused ETFs</a> group, it is ranked #3 out of 48 ETFs. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/VDC/">Click here</a> to access all of VDC's POWR Ratings.
What To Do Next?
Discover 10 widely held stocks that our proprietary model shows have tremendous downside potential. Please make sure none of these "death trap" stocks are lurking in your portfolio:
<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/free-report/10-stocks-to-sell/?formplacement=artbotad_10sell">10 Stocks to SELL NOW! &gt;</a>

<hr />
GLD shares were trading at $237.59 per share on Wednesday afternoon, up $0.25 (+0.11%). Year-to-date, GLD has gained 24.28%, versus a 19.37% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Abhishek Bhuyan</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/ABhuyan.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Abhishek embarked on his professional journey as a financial journalist due to his keen interest in discerning the fundamental factors that influence the future performance of financial instruments.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=abhishek-bhuyan">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/gld-xlu-vdc-3-etfs-to-hedge-against-market-volatility/>3 ETFs to Hedge Against Market Volatility</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

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Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF

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Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (ARCA:VDC), Quote.Headers.trade-ideas