New import tariffs prompt Walmart to warn of potential price hikes for shoppers

Walmart shares dropped around 6% after the company warned about slowing profit growth despite strong quarterly earnings, reports NBC News, which provided comprehensive coverage of Walmart's response to potential tariff impacts.

The retail giant reported a 4% increase in holiday-quarter revenue and a significant 20% jump in U.S. e-commerce sales, yet investors remained concerned about the company's conservative outlook. According to the Motley Fool Transcripts published by The Global and Mail, Walmart's Chief Financial Officer John David Rainey acknowledged that while two-thirds of their products are sourced from the U.S., the company won't be completely protected from proposed trade duties.

According toCNBC, which detailed the financial performance metrics and company strategy, Walmart expects net sales growth of 3% to 4% and adjusted operating income to rise between 3.5% to 5.5% on a constant currency basis for the fiscal year ahead. The outlook includes a 1.5 percentage point impact from their Vizio acquisition and the leap year effect in 2024.

CNBC's analysis reveals that despite steady consumer spending patterns, Walmart is preparing for potential challenges by working with suppliers, focusing on private brands, and adjusting supply chains to maintain competitive pricing. The publication further highlighted that Walmart's e-commerce success marks its 11th consecutive quarter of double-digit growth.

As seen inYahoo Finance's detailed breakdown of the earnings report, which provided specific figures and market reactions, Walmart's quarterly revenue reached $182.6 billion, while adjusted earnings per share increased 10% to $0.66. The financial news outlet emphasized that Walmart's U.S. grocery business, comprising 60% of total sales, experienced mid-single-digit same-store sales growth, driven by increased foot traffic and e-commerce.

Yahoo Finance highlighted that Walmart's subscription service showed double-digit growth, and membership income rose by 33%. The company's performance attracted more higher-income shoppers through its emphasis on value and convenience, though the stock's significant drop reflected investor concerns about the conservative fiscal 2026 guidance amid economic uncertainties.