UBS expects good print from Walmart, Truist still cautious on shares

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However, analysts said that while Walmart likely maintained its momentum and gained further share in the first quarter, they warned investors not to get too crazy.

“The narrative around WMT is that not only is it a bastion of safety in this otherwise uncertain world, but it is also a company that is capitalizing on its myriad emerging opportunities as it adapts to a digital landscape. In our view, the company’s 1Q results will largely support these views,” wrote analysts, who maintained a Buy rating and $170 price target on the stock.

“All in, we believe consensus estimates are likely to move higher after this print, which should continue to support the stock. As we see it, WMT should be a core holding and the stock deserves a premium multiple,” they added.

Elsewhere, Tuesday, Truist analysts maintained a Hold rating on Walmart but raised the price target on the stock to $160 from $159 per share.

The analysts said the firm believes Walmart’s sales trends remain robust, boosted by both same SKU inflation and share gains as consumers look to save money in the challenging economic environment.

“However, additional mix shifts may reduce incremental earnings flow through in the near/mid-term,” analysts wrote. “While Walmart may prove to be one of the best houses on a tough block, we still believe the risk/reward in WMT shares is roughly balanced at its current valuation.”