最新ニュース VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:RTH)

VanEck Retail ETF

VanEck Vectors Retail ETF

Consumer Cyclical

Consumer Defensive

Healthcare

The Fund normally invests at least 80 percent of its total assets in securities that comprise the Funds benchmark index. To be initially eligible for the Retail Index, companies must generate at least 50 percent of their revenues from retail. Retail includes companies engaged primarily in retail distribution; wholesalers; online, direct mail and TV retailers; multi-line retailers; specialty retailers, such as apparel, automotive, computer and electronics, drug, home improvement and home furnishing retailers; and food and other staples retailers. Of the largest 50 stocks in the retail industry by full market capitalization, the top 25 by free-float market capitalization (i.e., includes only shares that are readily available for trading in the market) and three month average daily trading volume are included in the Retail Index.

Amazon.Com Inc

Costco Wholesale Corp

Walmart, Inc.

Home Depot Inc/The

Lowe's Cos Inc

Tjx Cos., Inc.

Mckesson Corp

O'Reilly Automotive Inc

Cvs Health Corp

Target Corp Common Stock Usd 0.0833

JD.Com Inc

Autozone Inc

Rotharium

Amidst a week of market volatility, heightened by a weak Treasury auction and a jump in long-term yields, some of America&#8217;s largest retailers posted first-quarter profits that indicate the consumer machine might be slowing. The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">retail proxy ETF market</a>, so hotly followed, is getting shaken. This is how leading funds are positioned in response to the prevailing mood:
VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>): 
Exposure: Market cap-weighted, heavily skewed towards Amazon (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Home Depot (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HD#NYSE">HD</a>), and Walmart (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>).
Impact: RTH could be slightly more durable, given Amazon&#8217;s ongoing e-commerce strength and Walmart&#8217;s focus on essentials. However, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/05/45536218/walmart-responds-to-trumps-eat-the-tariff-remark-worked-to-keep-our-prices-as-low-as-possible-and-we-wont-stop" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Walmart&#8217;s tariff warning</a> introduces a risk factor to this fund.
ProShares Online Retail ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONLN#NYSE">ONLN</a>)
Exposure: Concentrates on digital-native retailers such as Amazon and Chewy (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CHWY#NYSE">CHWY</a>).
Impact: A shift to e-commerce, accelerated by inflation fatigue and convenience demands, could support ONLN. Target and Lowe's are leaning into digital services, which may benefit ONLN's broader theme.
Amplify Online Retail ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBUY#NYSE">IBUY</a>)
Exposure: A mix of U.S. and global e-commerce platforms. Amazon, Chewy, Wayfair (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/W#NYSE">W</a>) are among its top holdings.
Impact: Legacy players&#8217; renewed emphasis on convenience, expedited delivery, and promotions can drive competition for IBUY and ONLN members—but also affirm the long-term e-retail expansion story.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/specialty-etfs/25/05/45551463/ishares-tlt-falls-to-6-month-low-on-moodys-us-credit-downgrade-rising-yields"> iShares TLT Hits 6-Month Low After Weak Treasury Auction</a>
What&#8217;s Happening In the Retail World?
Target (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) took the cautionary lead, reducing its full-year earnings estimate to $7.00–$9.00 a share, from an earlier $8.80–$8.90. The firm <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45540759/target-stock-slips-as-q1-earnings-miss-estimates-fy2025-outlook-cut-amid-slowing-sales">fell short of the top- and bottom-line estimates </a>with sales of $23.85 billion that missed the consensus and decreased by 2.79% YoY. Management attributed the marked decline in discretionary spending and the more conservative U.S. consumer. The company stock was down 5.2% on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Lowe's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LOW#NYSE">LOW</a>) narrowly beat earnings expectations with $2.92 per share but posted a 2.03% YOY <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45548489/jpms-take-on-lowes-mixed-q1-highlights-weather-headwinds-and-gross-margin-strength">decline in revenue</a>. The retailer maintained its full-year guidance, signaling steady, if uninspiring, confidence. Its message echoed Target's: high interest rates and economic uncertainty are reshaping consumer priorities. LOW was down 1.7% on Wednesday.
TJX Companies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TJX#NYSE">TJX</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/05/45540766/tjx-boosts-q1-sales-with-more-shoppers-says-tariffs-wont-hurt-2026-outlook">stood firm on its perspective</a>, subject to existing tariff rates not changing. That position, though, did little to support shares, which declined 2.8% in tandem with peers. Walmart and Home Depot, in prior comments, emphasized the pricing squeeze of fresh tariffs, with Walmart cautioning for potential increases while Home Depot vowed to cover costs.
Tariffs, Yields, And The Retailer&#8217;s Dilemma
The macro backdrop is compounding retail headwinds. The 10-year Treasury yield climbed toward 4.6% and the 30-year breached 5% after a lackluster $16 billion auction in 20-year bonds, stoking fears of a higher-for-longer rate regime. With borrowing costs elevated, big-ticket purchases and home improvement projects are being shelved, a scenario confirmed by Lowe's soft revenue.
Tariffs are the other elephant in the shopping aisle. Retailers facing Chinese imports are rethinking pricing and supply chain strategies, but consumers have only so much tolerance for higher prices. Walmart&#8217;s caution is in stark contrast with Target&#8217;s vow to keep increases in check, a risk that could strain margins.
A Sector In Search Of A Spark
Retail ETFs continue to be a gauge of consumer spending and attitudes. The prevailing story—declining foot traffic, lagging discretionary sales, and economic conservatism—supports the view that funds such as XRT and RTH could be stuck in their ranges or lag unless attitudes shift or there are earnings surprises.
The bright spots? Retailers doubling down on digital tools, delivery innovation, and loyalty perks may insulate themselves from broader weakness. Investors should watch for ETF managers rebalancing exposure toward more resilient names—especially those boosting digital margins or catering to professional buyers, as Lowe's is attempting.
With warning lights flashing on the U.S. consumer horizon, retail ETFs are taking a hit. Investors would be wise to follow not only earnings, but forward guidance and how retailers are responding. In a more discerning market than ever, the right retail exposure may be the difference-maker.
Read Next: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45550710/investors-ditch-us-stocks-as-international-etfs-hit-52-week-highs-heres-whats-driving-the-portfolio-pivot">Investors Ditch US Stocks As International ETFs Hit 52-Week Highs, Here&#8217;s What&#8217;s Driving The Portfolio Pivot</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Aksana Mestnaya/Shutterstock

Sector ETFs

ETFs

AMZN

CHWY

IBUY

ONLN

Merrill Lynch Retail HOLDRS Trust due 12/31/41

Retail ETFs Rattle As Tariffs, Yields, Consumer Caution Pressure Big-Box Stocks

Telsey analyst Dana Telsey maintained an Outperform rating on TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TJX#NYSE">TJX</a>) with a price forecast of $145 following the company&#8217;s first-quarter results, which were reported before <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TJX/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the market opened today</a>.
Sales rose 5% year-over-year (Y/Y) to $13.1 billion, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $13 billion. Adjusted EPS of 92 cents beat the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/05/45540766/tjx-boosts-q1-sales-with-more-shoppers-says-tariffs-wont-hurt-2026-outlook" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus estimate of 90 cents</a>.
TJX reaffirmed guidance for fiscal 2026 comparable sales growth of 2% – 3% and EPS of $4.34-$4.43 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43976995" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">against a $4.49 estimate</a>.
The company expects second-quarter comparable sales growth of 2%—3% and EPS of $0.97-$1.00, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">with an estimate of $1.03</a>.
For the full-year FY26, the company expects to offset the significant and ongoing tariff-related financial pressures fully.
The analyst writes that the company delivered another strong quarterly performance, driven by strong operational execution and healthy sales, although the gross margin was slightly below expectations.
The analyst believes that the company&#8217;s consistent earnings outperformance underscores the appeal of its value-oriented model, which remains attractive to increasingly price-conscious consumers.
Moreover, the favorable environment for off-price retail continues to support TJX in meeting customer demand and maintaining strong store traffic, adds the analyst.
Going forward, Telsey anticipates that TJX to keep expanding its profitable market share, backed by stable comparable sales growth and ongoing strategic store openings.
Given the modest earnings beat and reaffirmed full-year outlook, the analyst sees no material change in the positive trajectory of the company's performance, which is an encouraging sign amid broader economic uncertainty.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) and iShares U.S. Consumer Focused ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEDI#BATS">IEDI</a>).
Price Action: TJX shares are down 2.69% at $131.30 at the last check on Wednesday.
Read Next:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/05/45537307/us-stocks-likely-to-open-lower-expert-says-tariffs-remain-a-headwind-but-tax-cut-and-easing-of-tensions-in-middle-east-could-propel-equities-closer-to-all-time-highs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Stocks Likely To Open Lower, Expert Says &#8216;Tariffs Remain A Headwind,&#8217; But &#8216;Tax Cut&#8217; And &#8216;Easing Of Tensions&#8217; In Middle East &#8216;Could Propel Equities Closer To All-Time Highs&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Equities

Large Cap

Movers

IEDI

TJ Maxx Parent Company Benefits From Off-Price Retail, Despite Consumer Caution: Analyst

TJX Companies Inc&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TJX#NYSE">TJX</a>) shares&nbsp;are trading lower premarket on Wednesday&nbsp;after the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/b45538836/the-tjx-companies-inc-reports-q1-fy26-results-comp-sales-growth-of-3-pretax-profit-margin-of-10-3-" rel="noreferrer noopener">first-quarter&nbsp;FY26 earnings result</a>.
Sales rose 5% year-over-year (Y/Y)&nbsp;to&nbsp;$13.1 billion, beating the analyst consensus estimate of&nbsp;$13.0 billion.
Overall&nbsp;comp store sales increased&nbsp;3% (Y/Y), at the high end of the company's plan, and were driven by an increase in customer transactions.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/05/45524193/tjx-companies-q1-preview-report-could-reflect-durable-earnings-growth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TJX Companies Q1 Preview: Report Could Reflect Durable Earnings Growth</a>
Gross&nbsp;profit margin was&nbsp;29.5%, a 0.5&nbsp;percentage point decrease versus the prior year, due to negative mark-to-market adjustments on inventory hedges.
Ernie Herrman, president and CEO said, &#8221;All divisions, both in the U.S. and internationally, drove increases in comp sales and customer transactions, which underscores the strength of our value proposition.&#8221;
Adjusted EPS of&nbsp;92 cents beat the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus&nbsp;estimate of&nbsp;90 cents</a>.
The&nbsp;company held&nbsp;$4.3 billion&nbsp;in cash and equivalents&nbsp;as of May 3 and generated&nbsp;$394&nbsp;billion&nbsp;of operating cash flow in the quarter.
As of May 3, total inventories stood at $7.1 billion, compared to&nbsp;$6.2&nbsp;billion&nbsp;last year.
During the first quarter, the company returned a total of $1.0 billion to shareholders, including the repurchase of shares worth $613 million.
The company continues to expect share repurchases of approximately $2.0 billion to $2.5 billion in fiscal 2026.
Outlook: TJX&nbsp;reaffirmed guidance for FY26 comparable sales growth of&nbsp;2%&nbsp;–&nbsp;3% and EPS of&nbsp;$4.34-$4.43&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43976995" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">against a&nbsp;$4.49&nbsp;estimate</a>.
The company sees&nbsp;second quarter comparable sales growth of&nbsp;2%&nbsp;–&nbsp;3%&nbsp;and&nbsp;EPS of&nbsp;$0.97-$1.00&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">with an estimate of&nbsp;$1.03</a>.
TJX&#8217;s second-quarter and FY26 guidance assumes current U.S. import tariffs from China and other nations, as of Wednesday, will persist.
Furthermore, for the full-year FY26, the company expects to fully offset the significant and ongoing tariff-related financial pressures.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) and iShares U.S. Consumer Focused ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEDI#BATS">IEDI</a>).
Price Action:&nbsp;TJX shares are down 1.88% at $132.39 premarket at the last check on Wednesday.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/05/45537307/us-stocks-likely-to-open-lower-expert-says-tariffs-remain-a-headwind-but-tax-cut-and-easing-of-tensions-in-middle-east-could-propel-equities-closer-to-all-time-highs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Stocks Likely To Open Lower, Expert Says &#8216;Tariffs Remain A Headwind,&#8217; But &#8216;Tax Cut&#8217; And &#8216;Easing Of Tensions&#8217; In Middle East &#8216;Could Propel Equities Closer To All-Time Highs&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Earnings

News

Guidance

TJX Boosts Q1 Sales With More Shoppers, Says Tariffs Won't Hurt 2026 Outlook

Target Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) stock has slumped 29% so far this year, extending declines after falling in each of the last three years. The seventh biggest US retailer has seen a whopping two-thirds of its market value eroded since peaking just above $129 billion in mid-2021. Fast forward to 2025, and its market capitalization is just about $44 billion.
Target&#8217;s steep and extended declines in the stock market potentially serves as a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">warning for ETF investors</a> who still think highly of big-box retail.
What Does This Mean For ETFs?
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Retail ETFs: Risk In The Aisles</li>
</ul>
For funds invested in Target such as the VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>), the retailer&#8217;s poor market performance has been a drag. A once-safe bet on middle-class spending, Target now embodies the agony of inflation-weary shoppers and the boundaries of retail automatization.
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<li></li>
</ol>
With peers such as Macy&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/M#NYSE">M</a>) also hinting at strain, these ETFs are as much at the mercy of changing U.S. consumer risks as ever.
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Dividend ETFs: Is The Yield Worth The Risk?</li>
</ul>
Target continues to boast a 4.66% dividend yield, underpinned by a history of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TGT/dividends">annual dividend increases</a>. That&#8217;s left it securely in the portfolio of VictoryShares Dividend Accelerator ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VSDA#NASDAQ">VSDA</a>).
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<li></li>
</ol>
But be warned: Target&#8217;s dividend record may be strong, but without earnings growth or investor confidence, that won&#8217;t redeem the stock&#8217;s weakness.
What&#8217;s Happening With TGT?
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<li></li>
</ol>
In early 2025, when Target announced a rollback of its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, it sparked criticism and a 40-day boycott by consumers. That pushed Target&#8217;s stock down further till it lost about $12.4 billion in market value by February.
Then came the class-action lawsuit following the backlash, which accused Target of misleading investors about the risks of changing its DEI policies. 
It didn&#8217;t end there. That was followed by uncertainty over Target&#8217;s policy on self-checkout lanes. Media reports this week hinted that Target is limiting self-checkout to thwart shoplifting. But the company says it&#8217;s merely enforcing a 10-items-or-fewer rule—a policy it rolled out quietly in March 2024, not last weekend. But the confusion adds to the image of a company grappling to fill gaps while navigating turbulent macro seas.
Now, with customer worries about theft, &#8220;shrink,&#8221; and subpar customer experience, the sheen of tech-savvy retail is fading. A reminder that automation, poorly executed, can shrink more than products—it can lose consumer trust.
And now, amid fears that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/04/45017240/covid-like-shortages-empty-shelves-expected-thanks-to-trump-tariffs-experts-say">U.S. tariffs on international trade will lead to empty shop shelves</a>, Target appears to be restocking investor anxiety more than customer baskets.
Adding more intrigue, Senator Shelley Moore Capito recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/government/25/05/45290762/a-congress-member-sold-up-to-30k-in-target-stock-heres-what-you-need-to-know">sold TGT shares on May 7</a>, as reported under the STOCK Act. The range of value sold was $2,002 to $30,000. Although one congressional trade isn&#8217;t gospel, investors may consider this a subtle red flag.
Final Receipt
Target&#8217;s <a href="https://stockanalysis.com/stocks/tgt/market-cap/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">valuation </a>crash isn&#8217;t merely a corporate fall from favor—it might just be a flashing yellow warning light for ETF investors. If you&#8217;re in it for the dividends, sector exposure, or thematic play on retail disruption, it&#8217;s time to rethink what TGT does for your portfolio. As of today, this Target may be more of a moving one.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/new-etfs/25/05/45319298/smart-hedged-and-contrarian-invescos-new-etfs-tackle-growth-risk-value-gaps">Smart, Hedged And Contrarian: Invesco&#8217;s New ETFs Tackle Growth, Risk, Value Gaps</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

VSDA

Target's Self-Checkout Flip-Flop Isn't Helping After A 66% Value Crash: Are Retail ETFs Ringing Up The Real Risk?

The U.S. retail sector is facing potential shortages in key consumer product areas as the ongoing trade war with China leads to a decrease in manufacturing orders and freight bookings, pushing the national supply chain towards a critical point.
What Happened: The U.S. supply chain is nearing a tipping point due to&nbsp;a decline in manufacturing orders&nbsp;and freight vessel bookings from China. Apparel and footwear, sectors heavily dependent on Chinese imports, are particularly at risk. In 2024, China accounted for&nbsp;37% of all U.S. apparel&nbsp;imports and&nbsp;58% of all U.S. footwear&nbsp;imports. The sudden implementation of tariffs left companies with little time to adjust their sourcing strategies, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/24/unsustainable-china-trade-war-retail-shortage-warnings.html">reported </a>CNBC. 
Companies are bracing for a range of impacts, including price increases and wary consumers. Orders for high-value items have spiked in anticipation of price hikes. Supply chain experts predict that lower-end stores, which rely on low-cost imports, will feel the effects of the tariffs most acutely, especially if they maintain lean inventory levels.
Supply chain expert Casey&nbsp;Armstrong predicts&nbsp;the first signs of empty&nbsp;shelves in areas dominated by price-sensitive imports, such as toys, games, back-to-school items, budget home goods, and apparel. He also expects shortages in fast fashion and apparel items, low-cost home goods, and consumer electronics supply like phones, earbuds. 
"These are the canaries in the coal mine of a disrupted supply chain," Armstrong told CNBC.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Gold from the National Retail Federation stated, "The uncertainty around the tariffs is challenging for businesses, especially for small businesses that are currently preparing for critical winter holiday orders."
SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/45003790/mark-cuban-slams-amazon-for-ripping-off-american-sellers-as-tariffs-are-predicted-to-boost-ecommerce-brands-profi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mark Cuban Slams Amazon For &#8216;Ripping Off American Sellers&#8217; As Trump Tariffs Are Predicted To Boost Ecommerce Brands&#8217; Profits</a>
Why It Matters: The potential retail shortages come in the wake of President Donald Trump&#8216;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44977395/trump-backs-off-firing-powell-after-walmart-target-ceos-warn-him-of-empty-store-shelves">softened </a>stance on his trade war with China, following warnings from top retailers about the risk of empty shelves. Earlier this week, CEOs of major retailers like Walmart (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>), Target (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>), and Home Depot (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HD#NYSE">HD</a>) met with Trump and warned him of the tightening supply lines due to his trade policies.
Earlier in April, Trump&#8217;s decision to end de minimis exemptions had already put <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44640798/trump-ends-de-minimis-exemptions-shopify-bigcommerce-and-lightspeed-face-new-headwinds">e-commerce</a> platforms such as&nbsp;Shopify Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHOP#NYSE">SHOP</a>),&nbsp;Bigcommerce Holdings Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BIGC#NASDAQ">BIGC</a>), and&nbsp;Lightspeed Commerce Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LSPD#NYSE">LSPD</a>) under pressure, making them &#8216;most exposed&#8217; to the ongoing trade tensions.
The looming retail shortages underline the far-reaching impacts of the U.S.-China trade war, affecting not just manufacturing and merchandise but also software and service providers.
SPDR S&amp;P Retail ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XRT#NYSE">XRT</a>) declined nearly 3% over the past month while VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) edged 0.8% lower, according to data from <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro.</a>
<ul>
<li>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/44999320/japans-counterpunch-to-trump-tariffs-emergency-measures-deployed-as-us-trade-talks-loom" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Japan&#8217;s Counterpunch To Trump Tariffs: Emergency Measures Deployed As US Trade Talks Loom</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Markets

BIGC

LSPD

SHOP

Shoes, Toys, Apparel And Earbuds May Disappear From Shelves First As US-China Trade War Disrupts Supply Chains, Retail Experts Warn

The U.S. retail market had a bit of a rollercoaster start to 2025. February <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/03/44355195/retail-sales-rebound-less-than-expected-in-february-online-healthcare-spending-show-strong-gains">retail sales</a> <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/03/44355195/retail-sales-rebound-less-than-expected-in-february-online-healthcare-spending-show-strong-gains">edged up a modest 0.2%</a>, but that came after a steep downward revision for January, which now clocks in at a 1.2% decline. Economists were looking for a more robust bounce-back of about 0.6%, but consumer spending couldn&#8217;t quite match it.
For investors, this is a key question: what does this imply for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">retail-oriented ETFs</a>? Because these ETFs follow the performance of retail stocks, they can take a hit from changes in consumer consumption. Let&#8217;s look at how recent retail data may affect these ETFs and what to expect next.
How Retail ETFs Are Reacting
Retail ETFs such as the SPDR S&amp;P Retail ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XRT#NYSE">XRT</a>) and VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) provide investors with broad exposure to the industry. When consumers are spending more, these ETFs perform well. But when sales are weak, the effect can be uneven based on what is behind the numbers. In the past month, XRT has dipped as much as 13.93% and RTH, 7.42%.
February&#8217;s softer-than-expected growth might cause some short-term volatility, but not every sector of retail is suffering. Online shopping and health-related retail strength might see some ETFs perform better than others.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44360075/retail-giant-target-which-relies-on-china-for-30-of-its-merchandise-warns-of-profit-hit-as-trumps-trade-war-bites">Retail Giant Target, Which Relies On China For 30% Of Its Merchandise, Warns Of Profit Hit As Trump&#8217;s Trade War Bites</a>
Here&#8217;s a closer examination:
XRT, an equal-weighted fund, might come under some pressure because it distributes investments among a broad spectrum of retailers, some of which are suffering.
RTH, which relies more heavily on the likes of Amazon and Walmart, might fare better with the continued e-commerce strength.
Vanguard Consumer Discretionary Index Fund ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VCR#NYSE">VCR</a>), which is exposed to brick-and-mortar as well as online stores, may have mixed results based on how various retail categories perform.
Dissecting The Retail Sales Figures
Based on the most recent U.S. Census Bureau report, here&#8217;s how retail sales held up:
<ul>
<li>February sales increased 0.2%—a modest increase but not the recovery economists were looking for.</li>
<li>January sales were revised to a 1.2% decline, emphasizing a softer beginning to the year.</li>
<li>Year-over-year, retail sales increased 3.1%, decelerating from the prior 3.9%.</li>
</ul>
Not all categories fared poorly, however. Online stores experienced a 2.4% increase in sales, demonstrating ongoing demand for e-commerce.
Health and personal care stores reported a 1.7% increase.
Excluding auto sales and gasoline stations, retail sales actually increased 0.5%, higher than the expected 0.4%.
The control group measure, which removes more erratic sectors, increased 1%, a robust bounce back from January&#8217;s 1% fall.
A number of factors probably held down consumer spending. 
<ul>
<li>Inflation is continuing to nibble at purchasing power, so shoppers are being more careful. </li>
<li>Increased interest rates might be deterring major purchases.</li>
<li>January&#8217;s weakness might have lingered, as shoppers pulled back after the holidays. </li>
<li>Changing consumer spending, with greater emphasis on necessities over discretionary goods.</li>
</ul>
While the disappointing top-line number is concerning, there are some silver linings in sight. The fact that online sales were strong indicates that e-commerce retailers continue to draw shoppers. That&#8217;s a plus for ETFs that have heavy exposure to e-commerce stocks.
What&#8217;s Next For Retail ETFs?
While retail sales missed the mark, sector-specific strength—particularly in e-commerce—may cushion the blow for some ETFs. Investors will want to watch inflation, interest rates, and overall consumer sentiment in the months ahead.
For those who want to ride out possible volatility, diversification within the retail space may be the way to go. Although broad retail ETFs may face some stress, those funds that have greater exposure to well-performing sub-sectors such as e-retail and medical products could be in better shape in the near term.
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Photo: Shutterstock

Consumer Spending Stumbles: Time To Buy The Dip In Retail ETFs?

Several analysts boosted the price forecast for AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZO#NYSE">AZO</a>) following second-quarter&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/azo/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">results reported on Tuesday</a>.
The company reported second-quarter GAAP earnings per share of $28.29,&nbsp;missing the street view of $29.39 and sales of $3.952 billion (+2.4% year over year) missed the analyst <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44107516/autozone-q2-earnings-miss-estimates-revenues-grow-24" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus estimate of $3.981 billion</a>.
Raymond James analyst Bobby Griffin maintained a Strong Buy rating and raised the price target from&nbsp;$3,850&nbsp;to&nbsp;$4,000.
The analyst writes that they remain optimistic about the company&#8217;s strong commercial performance, resilient gross margins, and long-term growth prospects despite lowering the FY25 EPS estimate to $153.10 (from $154.85).
The analyst says that the International growth, with ~100 new stores, remains a bright spot, despite near-term foreign exchange headwinds.
The Mega-Hub expansion remains key, with plans for 300 locations to boost both domestic retail (DIY) and DIFM availability, per the analyst.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Griffin writes that DIFM sales are rising, supported by better inventory placement and faster delivery.
While DIY traffic is under pressure, AZO is poised for a rebound as macro conditions improve, with potential upside from inflation and tariff effects, adds the analyst.
Guggenheim analyst Steven Forbes retained a Buy rating and raised the price forecast from&nbsp;$3,750&nbsp;to&nbsp;$3,850.
The analyst writes that the results support his thesis of continued sequential improvement, highlighted by stronger DIY and DIFM comps.
While higher-than-expected investments in field labor led to a slight EBIT(DA) shortfall, the analyst anticipates these investments will mature in the next 12 months, setting up for stronger comp growth in the second half of 2025.
Other price forecast revisions include:
<ul>
<li>DA Davidson analyst Michael Baker maintained a Neutral rating and boosted the price forecast from $3,350 to $3,500.</li>
<li>Evercore ISI Group analyst Greg Melich kept an Outperform rating and upped the price forecast from $3,525 to $3,700.</li>
<li>JP Morgan analyst Christopher Horvers reaffirmed an Overweight and increased the price forecast from $3,775 to $3,830.</li>
<li>BMO Capital analyst Tristan Thomas-Martin retained an Outperform and raised the price forecast from $3,700 to $3,850.</li>
<li>Morgan Stanley analyst Simeon Gutman maintained an Overweight and upped the price forecast from $3,490 to $3,750.</li>
<li>Mizuho analyst David Bellinger kept an Outperform and boosted the price forecast from $3,600 to $3,740.</li>
</ul>
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Exchange Listed Funds Trust Bancreek U.S. Large Cap ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BCUS#NYSE">BCUS</a>) and VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>).
Price Action: AZO shares are up 2.36% at $3,555.56 at the last check Wednesday.
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Photo by Shuttershock.

Analyst Color

Price Target

Reiteration

Analyst Ratings

Trading Ideas

BCUS

AutoZone's Growth Story Intact, Analysts Highlight Commercial Strength and Expansion Plans

On Tuesday, Target Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) outlined a strategic plan to drive over $15 billion in sales growth by 2030, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/03/n44119354/target-announces-strategic-plans-to-drive-more-than-15-billion-in-sales-growth-by-2030" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">focusing on style, innovation, and value</a>.
Starting in 2025, Target plans to launch a multi-year initiative to expand high-growth product categories. This includes reinventing its gaming and sports categories, launching new Good &amp; Gather collaborations, and strengthening partnerships with Champion and Disney.
Digital Ecosystem: Target plans to significantly grow its Target Plus marketplace, aiming to increase third-party digital sales from $1 billion in 2024 to over $5 billion by 2030.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44106754">Target CEO Cautions Tariffs Will Pressure FY25 Profit, Consumer Uncertainty To Hit Feb Sales</a>
The retailer aims to add hundreds of brands, including Peloton, Daily Harvest, and Honest Baby Clothing, to enhance its product offerings and attract more customers.
Additionally, Target intends to double the size of its in-house media company, Roundel, which generated over $2 billion in value last year.
New Store Opening: Target plans to open around 20 new stores in 2025, mostly large-format locations, while continuing its 10-year goal of adding 300+ stores. The retailer will also invest in remodels to enhance shopping experiences, improve fulfillment efficiency, and drive digital growth through its stores-as-hubs model.
Beauty Category: The company plans to expand its beauty selection with 2,000 new items and enhance its supply chain to support its growing multi-channel business.
Owned Brand Innovation: Aiming to expand its frequency categories with new Good &amp; Gather Collabs, Target is launching March 9 with Chef Ann Kim. It's also adding 600+ food and beverage items, refreshing up&amp;up essentials, and updating Boots &amp; Barkley pet supplies for more affordable options.
Target Circle loyalty Program: Target plans to triple its Target Circle 360 membership in three years by adding new perks, benefits, and partnerships, including a collaboration with Marriott Bonvoy for enhanced travel rewards.
Same-Day services: In 2025 and beyond, the retailer plans to further expand these services by enhancing convenience, increasing awareness, and improving the Drive Up and Returns experience.
Yesterday, the company reported a&nbsp;fourth-quarter sales decline&nbsp;of 3.1% year-on-year to $30.91 billion, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $30.84 billion, and adjusted EPS of $2.41,&nbsp;beating <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44106754/targets-q4-earnings-beat-estimates-warns-consumer-uncertainty-impact-in-q1-profits" rel="noreferrer noopener">the consensus&nbsp;estimate of $2.26</a>.
Target&nbsp;expects&nbsp;FY25 adjusted EPS of $8.80 – $9.80 versus an estimate of $9.31, comparable sales to be flat, and, FY25 sales growth&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">to be around 1%.</a>
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;Capitol Series Trust, The Nightview Fund NITE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NITE#NYSE">NITE</a>), and VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>).
Price Action: TGT shares are up 0.14% at $117.30 premarket at the last check Wednesday.
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</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

NITE

Target Unveils $15 Billion Sales Growth Strategy With Focus on Digital Expansion

Target Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) said on Thursday that it is significantly expanding its wellness offerings, with plans to introduce over 2,000 new items across a variety of categories, including <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/01/n42893497/target-is-expanding-its-wellness-assortment-with-2-000-new-items-more-than-half-under-10" rel="noreferrer noopener">more than 600 exclusive products.</a>
This expansion reflects Target&#8217;s strategy&nbsp;of making wellness products more accessible and affordable, with over half of the new items priced under $10, the company said in a press release.
The company&#8217;s integrated approach spans multiple areas of wellness, from beauty and personal care to nutrition, food, and wellness technology, ensuring that consumers can curate a personalized wellness regimen.
Target&#8217;s new assortment includes emerging brands and exclusive partnerships.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42894683/los-angeles-wildfires-stoke-investor-fears-edison-internationals-stock-ended-10-lower-on-wednesday-amid-concerns-over-possible-equipment-links-to-forest-fires" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Wildfires Stoke Investor Fears: Edison International&#8217;s Stock Ended 10% Lower On Wednesday Amid Concerns Over Possible Equipment Links To Forest Fires</a>
In the beverage category, the retailer is introducing non-alcoholic beverages like BERO, a premium beer co-founded by actor Tom Holland. Target is also expanding its beauty and self-care offerings, with new haircare lines from Ashley Tisdale&#8216;s Being Frenshe and Blake Lively&#8216;s Blake Brown, as well as wellness gummies from Kourtney Kardashian Barker&#8216;s Lemme brand.
Additionally, Target is enhancing its men&#8217;s wellness selection with products from Dr. Squatch and Dwayne &#8220;The Rock&#8221; Johnson&#8216;s Papatui line, along with expanding its wellness technology category, introducing innovative items like SLF&#8217;s infrared red light therapy mask and Therabody&#8217;s SmartGoggles.
Target is also adding new activewear, loungewear, and sleepwear options to cater to growing wellness and self-care trends. The expanded wellness range will be available in 2025, allowing consumers to support their well-being while staying within their budget.
According to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro</a>, TGT stock has lost over 3% in the past year. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>).
Price Action: TGT shares closed lower by 0.74% to $138.22 on Wednesday.
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock.

General

Target's Wellness Push: Over 50% Of New Items Priced Under $10

JP Morgan analyst Christopher Horvers maintained an Overweight rating for Lowe&#8217;s Companies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LOW#NYSE">LOW</a>) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LOW/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">with a price forecast of $300.</a>
Yesterday, the company highlighted its near-term and long-term financial targets at its 2024<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42445818/lowes-targets-1-billion-in-annual-savings-and-expands-store-footprint-to-drive-future-growth" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Analyst and Investor Conference</a>.
Lowe&#8217;s reaffirmed its outlook, projecting total sales between $83 billion and $83.5 billion<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener"> (consensus estimate: $83.34 billion)</a>.
The company expects comparable sales to decline by 3.0% to 3.5% and adjusted EPS&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/42060077/lowes-q3-earnings-revenue-and-eps-beat-but-comp-sales-fall-amid-softness-in-bigger-ticket-diy-discretionary-demand" rel="noreferrer noopener">of $11.80 – $11.90 (consensus estimate: $11.89)</a>.
Lowe&#8217;s plans to unveil its next phase of Perpetual Productivity Improvement (PPI) initiatives, projected to deliver approximately $1 billion in annual cost savings.
The analyst writes that Lowe&#8217;s Analyst Day marked a subtle pivot, signaling that the infrastructure built since CEO Marvin Ellison&#8217;s 2018 arrival is now in place.
The analyst says they continue to favor LOW and write that with the shift to positive comps after three years of pullforward spending and housing headwinds, they believe a moderate 1% comp is reasonable.
The analyst views the 10 basis points of operating margin expansion per comp point and the $1 billion stock repurchase assumption as conservative.
Hoovers adds that Lowe&#8217;s is advancing self-help initiatives to boost top-line growth and margins, reducing the performance gap with Home Depot.
The industry&#8217;s duopoly and resistance to Amazon, along with a strong housing-driven long-term outlook, justify its premium valuation, adds the analyst.
Additionally, the recent decline in long-term rates is expected to boost demand, especially as existing home sales remain at 40-year lows, with potential upside from a Fed rate cut, per the analyst.
As the housing market improves, Horvers expects the company to further re-rate, especially with the 2025 guidance uncertainty cleared.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;IShares U.S. Home Construction ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITB#BATS">ITB</a>) and&nbsp;VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>).
Price Action: LOW shares are down 1.41% at $264.11 at the last check Thursday.
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Photo via Shutterstock.

iShares Dow Jones US Homenstruction Index Fund

Lowe's Positioned For Growth Amid Cost Savings And Housing Recovery: JP Morgan Analyst

Lowe&#8217;s Companies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LOW#NYSE">LOW</a>) highlighted its near-term and long-term financial targets at its 2024 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/12/n42432122/lowes-unveils-2025-total-home-strategy-to-drive-long-term-growth-and-market-share" rel="noreferrer noopener">Analyst and Investor Conference today</a>.
The company has introduced a standardized framework to harness generative AI, aimed at improving customer experiences and boosting productivity.
Also, the company launched the U.S. home improvement industry&#8217;s first product marketplace, partnering with new sellers and existing suppliers to expand its online assortment. This initiative strengthens Lowe&#8217;s position as a one-stop shop for all home needs.
Apart from this, in early 2025, Lowe&#8217;s will relaunch MyLowe&#8217;s Pro Rewards, a streamlined loyalty program for small-to-medium Pros.
The program will simplify earning and redeeming rewards, with Pro customers saving 5% daily on eligible purchases when using their MyLowe&#8217;s Pro Rewards Credit Card.
Moreover, Lowe&#8217;s is streamlining large Pro orders with direct supplier system integration, aiming to boost close rates and capture more Pro spend, while relying on suppliers for jobsite delivery.
FY24 Outlook: Lowe&#8217;s reaffirmed its outlook, projecting total sales between $83 billion and $83.5 billion<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener"> (consensus estimate: $83.34 billion)</a>.
The company expects comparable sales to decline by 3.0% to 3.5% and adjusted EPS <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/42060077/lowes-q3-earnings-revenue-and-eps-beat-but-comp-sales-fall-amid-softness-in-bigger-ticket-diy-discretionary-demand" rel="noreferrer noopener">of $11.80 &#8211; $11.90 (consensus estimate: $11.89)</a>.
Lowe&#8217;s plans to unveil its next phase of Perpetual Productivity Improvement (PPI) initiatives, projected to deliver approximately $1 billion in annual cost savings.
To drive growth, Lowe&#8217;s plans to open 10-15 stores annually in fast-growing U.S. markets, building on recent successes and enhanced space productivity.
The company will also expand its rural assortments to 150 more stores, offering a one-stop shop with enhanced selections in pet, workwear, automotive, and utility vehicles.
Marvin R. Ellison, Lowe&#8217;s chairman, president and CEO, said, &#8220;As we look ahead to the expected recovery in home improvement, we are making investments to position the company for long-term growth. We are evolving our Total Home strategy to help solve our customers&#8217; total home improvement needs with more value and exceptional service,&#8221;&nbsp;&nbsp;
&#8220;At the same time, we&#8217;re building on our momentum with Pros now that we&#8217;ve reached 30% Pro penetration.&#8221;
Goldman Sachs analyst rated the company a Buy rating, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LOW/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">with a price target of $276.</a>
The analyst estimates FY24 sales of $83.3 billion, comparable sales of -3.3%, and adjusted EPS of $11.87.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;IShares U.S. Home Construction ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITB#BATS">ITB</a>) and VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>).
Price Action: LOW shares are down 0.31% at $269.28 at the last check Wednesday.
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Photo via Shutterstock.

Lowe's Targets $1 Billion In Annual Savings And Expands Store Footprint To Drive Future Growth

On Tuesday, Automotive retailer AutoZone, Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZO#NYSE">AZO</a>)&nbsp;reported fiscal first-quarter earnings per share of $32.52, missing the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">Street view of $33.76</a>.
Quarterly revenues of $4.28 billion (+2.1% year over year) missed the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/12/g42409252/autozone-1st-quarter-total-company-same-store-sales-increase-1-8-domestic-same-store-sales-increas" rel="noreferrer noopener">analyst consensus of $4.30 billion</a>.
AutoZone said the company&#8217;s same-store sales increased 0.4% (or 1.8% in constant currency),&nbsp;while domestic sales grew 0.3%.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/24/12/42369000/booz-allen-and-palantir-partner-to-drive-us-defense-operations" rel="noreferrer noopener">Booz Allen and Palantir Partner To Drive US Defense Operations</a>
The quarter&#8217;s gross profit margin was 53.0%, up 16 basis points, driven by higher merchandise margins. Operating profit decreased 0.9% to $841.1 million.&nbsp;
Under its share repurchase program, AutoZone repurchased 160 thousand shares of its common stock at an average price per share of $3,156, for a total investment of $505.2 million.
Since the inception of the share repurchase program, the company has repurchased 155 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $241, for a total investment of $37.5 billion. At the end of the first quarter, the company had $1.7 billion remaining under its current share repurchase authorization.
During the quarter, AutoZone opened 23 new stores in the U.S., 6 in Mexico, and 5 in Brazil, for a total of 34 net new stores.&nbsp;
AutoZone&#8217;s sales per average store reached $0.57 million, down from $0.58 million Y/Y. The sales per average square foot was $85, down from $86 Y/Y. Total auto parts sales reached $4.2 billion, up from $4.12 billion Y/Y.
The domestic commercial sales for the quarter reached $1.13 billion, up from $1.09 billion Y/Y.
The company had 6,455 stores in the U.S., 800 in Mexico, and 132 in Brazil, for a total store count of 7,387.
AutoZone CEO Phil Daniele was impressed with the progress in its DIY same-store sales result from the prior quarter as average ticket and traffic trends improved.&nbsp;While currency rate moves depressed reported sales and earnings growth, the international performance remains encouraging as the company focuses on opening more stores in these markets.&nbsp; AutoZone is well-positioned for growth heading into the remainder of the fiscal year, backed by its initiatives to improve customer service and grow market share, he added.&nbsp;
Autozone&nbsp;stock surged over 29% year-to-date. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) and Hennessy Stance ESG ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STNC#NYSE">STNC</a>).
Price Action: AZO stock closed at $3,324.01 on Monday.
Photo via Shutterstock.
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</ul>

STNC

AutoZone Q1 Misses Wall Street Marks, But CEO Sees Bright Road Ahead

Several analysts expressed views on Ross Stores, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROST#NASDAQ">ROST</a>) third-quarter results reported on Thursday.
The company reported EPS&nbsp;of $1.48, exceeding the consensus of $1.40, while sales&nbsp;of $5.07 billion <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b42123039/ross-stores-reports-third-quarter-earnings-updates-fourth-quarter-guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">missed the street view of&nbsp;$5.15 billion</a>.
Ross Stores expects fourth-quarter EPS of&nbsp;$1.57 &#8211; $1.64&nbsp;versus consensus of $1.67 and FY25 EPS&nbsp;of $6.10 &#8211; $6.17&nbsp;compared <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">to the street view of $6.14</a>.
BofA Securities analyst Lorraine Hutchinson reiterated a <a target="_blank" href="https://benzinga.com/quote/ROST/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buy rating on the stock with a price target of $180.</a>
The analyst writes that the company&#8217;s value-focused offerings continue to appeal to stretched consumers.
The analyst says the fourth-quarter guidance accounts for a timing shift in packaway expenses (benefiting the third quarter by $0.03) and lapping last year&#8217;s extra week, which added $0.20 to EPS and 80 basis points to OM. Hutchinson adjusted the FY24 estimate to $6.14, up 1%.
Telsey Advisory Group analyst Dana Telsey reaffirmed the Market Perform rating with a price target of $175.
The analyst writes that Ross Stores&#8217; earnings beat reflected margin tailwinds, despite topline results falling short of expectations. While some sales weakness was attributed to unfavorable weather, product assortment issues also contributed, failing to fully capture consumer interest.
Looking ahead, the company remains aware of the challenging macroeconomic environment, particularly for its low-to-moderate income demographic, which faces pressure from rising essential costs, says the analyst.
The analyst writes that although FY24 EPS guidance was raised, fourth-quarter projections fell short, underscoring persistent challenges.
Ross&#8217;s commitment to value continues to attract deal-seeking customers, but macroeconomic uncertainty and the price sensitivity of its core demographic weigh, adds the analyst.
Guggenheim analyst Robert Drbul maintained a Buy rating with a $180 price target.
The analyst says that while macro uncertainties remain, he expects Ross to sustain positive sales momentum this holiday season, driven by strength in gifting, cosmetics, and accessories, and carry this into 2025.
Drbul sees EPS estimates of $6.15 in FY24 and $6.70 in FY25, which reflects a favorable environment for Ross, supported by ample branded goods supply, a strong value proposition, and ongoing sales optimism.
Following the third-quarter revenue miss, the analyst slightly reduced the FY24 revenue forecast, factoring in persistent inflation and its impact on discretionary spending.
Goldman Sachs analyst Brooke Roach writes that they remain positive on Ross Stores. Despite weather-related comp softness and execution challenges, ROST&#8217;s strategy of offering branded value merchandise at sharper prices is gaining traction.
While this pressures merchandise margins, operational efficiencies have offset the impact. Management acknowledges ongoing macro pressures on low- to middle-income consumers but expects sequential strength in the holiday quarter, driven by gifting and seasonal items, adds the analyst.
Roach writes that additional catalysts include the appointment of a new <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/10/b41586044/ross-stores-names-james-g-conroy-as-next-chief-executive-officer" rel="noreferrer noopener">CEO, effective February 2025</a>.
The analyst revised the FY24, FY25, and FY26 EPS estimates to $6.19, $6.54, and $7.14 (from $6.07, $6.47, and $7.06), respectively, to account for the quarterly results, timing adjustments, and slight margin forecast updates.
BMO Capital Markets analyst Simeon Siegel kept the Outperform rating and a price target of $168.
The analyst writes that ROST delivered a bottom-line beat, driven by stronger-than-expected gross margins, despite a topline miss attributed to unfavorable weather.
Management lowered its fourth-quarter EPS guidance but reiterated comp expectations, slightly raising the FY EPS high-end by $0.03, which the analyst views as conservative.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Virtus ETF Trust II Virtus KAR Mid-Cap ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KMID#NYSE">KMID</a>) and VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>).
Price Action: ROST shares are up 2.41% at $146.41 at the last check Friday.
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Analysts See Growth Potential In Ross Stores Amid Holiday Season Optimism: Details

Target Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) shares are trading slightly higher following strong earnings from top peer Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>).
Today, Walmart announced third-quarter results and raised its fiscal-2025 guidance. The retailer reported adjusted EPS of 58 cents, beating the consensus of 53 cents. Sales were $169.59 billion, up <a href="https://corporate.walmart.com/content/dam/corporate/documents/newsroom/2024/11/19/walmart-releases-q3-fy25-earnings/q3-fy25-earnings-release.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">5.5</a>% year over year or 6.2% (at constant currency), <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42060801/walmart-tops-q3-estimates-ecommerce-growth-shines-with-27-lifts-full-year-forecast" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beating the consensus of $167.72 billion. </a>
For FY25, Walmart raised its adjusted EPS outlook to $2.42 – $2.47 (from $2.35 – $2.43), vs. the consensus of $2.45. Walmart boosted FY25 net sales (at constant currency) growth guidance to 4.8% – 5.1% from 3.75% – 4.75% earlier.
Meanwhile, Target will report its third-quarter results on Wednesday, November 20, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/n42060504/target-corporation-to-webcast-3rd-quarter-earnings-conference-call-on-wednesday-november-20-2024" rel="noreferrer noopener">2024, at 7:00 a.m. central time.</a>
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Last week, Target announced its store hours for Black Friday week <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/41895063" rel="noreferrer noopener">and the holiday season.</a>
On Friday, November 29, Target will open its doors early at 6 a.m. local time, offering exclusive items such as the &#8220;Taylor Swift &#x7C; The Eras Tour Book&#8221; and &#8220;The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology&#8221; on CD and vinyl.
These items will be available only at Target, along with top deals across the store. Special offers will be available in-store, online, and through the Target app, providing shoppers with great value for their holiday purchases.
According to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro</a>, TGT stock has gained over 20.76% in the past year. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;SPDR Select Sector Fund &#8211; Consumer Staples (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) and&nbsp;VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>).
Price Action: TGT shares are trading higher by 0.57% to $157.46 at last check Tuesday.
Photo via Shutterstock
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What's Going On With Target Stock Today?

J. P. Morgan analyst Christopher Horvers expressed views on Home Depot, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HD#NYSE">HD</a>) third-quarter earnings&nbsp;results reported today.
The company reported sales growth of 6.6% year-over-year to $40.217 billion, beating the consensus estimate of $39.173 billion and adjusted EPS of $3.78,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/41902698/home-depot-q3-earnings-revenue-and-eps-beat-lifts-full-year-forecast-despite-customer-traffic-dip" rel="noreferrer noopener">beating the consensus of $3.64</a>.
Home Depot raised its FY24 sales guidance from $156.49 billion – $158.01 billion to $158.78 billion vs.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener"> the $157.33 billion consensus</a>.
The company now expects Adjusted EPS of $15.10 (representing a decline of approximately&nbsp;1%&nbsp;from&nbsp;$15.25 in FY23) vs. the consensus of $14.84.&nbsp;
The analyst, with an <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/HD/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">Overweight rating</a>, notes that the EPS forecast appears to be somewhat conservative.
Overall, Horvers says that there is still more to understand about the business&#8217; current state, but excluding the 50-basis-point hurricane boost, the U.S. business showed a decline of -1.7%, an improvement from the -3.4% in the first half of 2024.
The company is essentially aligning with Street expectations for a ~-2% decline in the fourth quarter, adds the analyst.
The analyst writes that while the extended outdoor season likely helped, the pace of deterioration should continue to slow into 2025, as the share-of-wallet headwind has eased and wages grow by 3.5%-4%, supporting baseline consumption in the category.
Therefore, the Street&#8217;s +2% comp forecast for 2025 seems reasonable, adds the analyst.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;iShares U.S. Consumer Focused ETF&nbsp;(BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEDI#BATS">IEDI</a>) and VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>).
Price Action: HD shares are down 0.44% at $406.51 at the last check Tuesday.
Photo: Sockagphoto via Shutterstock
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Home Depot's Earnings Beat Sets Conservative Tone for FY24, J.P. Morgan Predicts Slowing Deterioration Ahead

Alice Walton, daughter of the late Sam Walton and heiress to the Walmart Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) fortune, has retaken the distinction as<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40945833/walmart-to-offer-pay-by-bank-feature-for-online-transactions-with-launch-in-2025"> the world&#8217;s richest woman</a>.
As of Sept. 4, Walton&#8217;s wealth was estimated at $89.1 billion, according to Forbes &#8220;World Wealthiest Woman&#8221; list. The ranking puts her slightly ahead of French cosmetics company L&#8217;Oreal heiress Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, USA Today <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2024/09/16/alice-walton-richest-woman-forbes/75256526007/">reported</a>.
Bettencourt Meyers held the title last year when her worth was estimated at over $100 billion, but it is now at $88.4 billion.
The two heiresses have traded the No. 1 and No. 2 spots a few times over the years, such as when Bettencourt Meyers was the richest woman in 2019 but was then surpassed by Walton in 2020.
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Bettencourt Meyers took the title as world&#8217;s richest woman back in 2023 from Walton, who then took third place due to Koch Inc. heiress Julia Koch, who now has a net worth of $74 billion as of Sept. 4, according to the Forbes ranking.
But Walton is not the richest person in her family.
She sits below her brothers Jim and Rob Walton, who were worth $95.9 billion and $94 billion respectively, as of Sept. 4.
Sam Walton&#8217;s heirs together own nearly 46% of Walmart.
Throughout her life, she has donated more than $5 billion to charitable foundations including the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which she founded in November 2011 in Bentonville, Arkansas.
Elon Musk, who owns Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), SpaceX, X and other companies, is the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/09/40905106/elon-musk-gautam-adani-and-jensen-huang-lead-the-race-to-become-the-worlds-first-trillionaires">world&#8217;s richest person </a>with an estimated wealth of $251 billion.
Price Action: Walmart slipped 1.05% to $78.20 into Thursday&#8217;s late-day trading.
Exchange-traded funds that hold the stock saw losses ands gains.
<ul>
<li>Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) slipped 0.44%</li>
<li>Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSTA#NYSE">FSTA</a>) dropped 0.33%</li>
<li>VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) rose 0.75%</li>
</ul>
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Image: Walmart, Wikimedia Commons

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Walmart Heiress Alice Walton Retakes Title As World's Richest Woman

Port employers and the union representing East and Gulf coasts dockworkers begin <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/08/40497103/strikes-at-us-ports-canadas-railways-may-cause-container-freight-rate-volatility">a two-day meeting</a> in New Jersey to prevent a strike that would disrupt maritime commerce along the entire U.S. Eastern Seaboard.
Talks on a labor deal for six of the 10 busiest ports stopped in June when the International Longshoremen&#8217;s Association called off wage negotiations with the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) that represents ocean carriers and port operators, Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-09-04/us-port-talks-kick-off-in-bid-to-avoid-economy-disrupting-strike?sref=TBDibEcD">reported</a>.
U.S. retailers are once again asking the White House to help about 45,000 dockworkers and 36 ports come to a resolution before a looming Sept. 30 deadline.
"At a time when inflation is on the downward trend, a strike or other disruption would significantly impact retailers, consumers and the economy,&#8221; National Retail Federation (NRF) CEO Matthew Shay said in a statement on Tuesday.
&#8220;The administration needs to offer any and all support to get the parties back to the table to negotiate a new contract."
The NRF said it led a coalition of 158 state and federal trade associations in June in sending a letter to President Joe Biden urging his administration to work with the union and the terminal operators toward ending the deadlock. It also sent a letter to both sides earlier this year asking them to resume labor talks.
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&#8220;The threat of a strike during the peak shipping season has many retailers already implementing costly mitigation,&#8221; Shay said.
"At a time when inflation is on the downward trend, a strike or other disruption would significantly impact retailers, consumers and the economy.&#8221;
The union is seeking a wage hike of nearly 80% over six years, compared to the 32% pay increase that West Coast dockworkers received last summer after ironing out a labor deal.
ILA President&nbsp;Harold Daggett&nbsp;has repeatedly warned of a strike if no deal is reached by the deadline and has opposed using automation at port terminals.
USMX has said they have given an &#8220;industry-leading&#8221; offer on wages and proposed keeping the language on automation out of the existing contract.
Price Action: Major retailers and the exchange-traded funds that hold retail stocks saw losses into Wednesday&#8217;s mid-morning trading.
<ul>
<li>Home Depot, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HD#NYSE">HD</a>) was down 0.77% to $361.87</li>
<li>Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) slipped 0.039% to $77.15</li>
<li>Target Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) fell 0.12% to $151.62</li>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Retail ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XRT#NYSE">XRT</a>) declined 0.89% to $74.37</li>
<li>VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) was down 0.51% at $207.58.</li>
<li>Direxion Daily AMZN Bull 2X Shares (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZU#NASDAQ">AMZU</a>) slid 1.42% to $29.25.</li>
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Photo: Shutterstock

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Retailers Plea For Deal: US Ports, Union Start Two-Day Talk In Effort To Prevent Disruptive Strike

Several analysts raised their price targets for The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TJX#NYSE">TJX</a>) following yesterday&#8217;s strong second-quarter results.
TJX reported EPS of $0.96 (+13%) and $13.468 billion in sales, which exceeded estimates, driven by a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/08/40484279/tjx-companies-q2-earnings-strong-sales-higher-margins-invests-in-dubais-brands-for-less" rel="noreferrer noopener">4% rise in comparable store sales</a>.
The company raised its FY25 EPS outlook to $4.09-$4.13 and expects third-quarter EPS between $1.06 and $1.08, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">despite slightly missing estimates</a>.
BofA Securities analyst Lorraine Hutchinson raised the price target to $135 from $115 while maintaining a Buy rating, reflecting an increased confidence in sales and profitability. The analyst writes that a strong quarter confirms its market share gains and consumer appeal.
Better buying and tailored merchandising strategies are enhancing markon and lowering markdown rates for TJX, adds the analyst.
Hutchinson anticipates these factors, combined with selective price increases, to boost merchandise margins. The analyst raised the FY25 EPS estimate by 1% to $4.12.
Apart from this, maintaining a Buy rating, UBS boosted the price target to $148 (from $134), Jefferies to $140 (from $130), TD Cowen to $125 (from $120), and Loop Capital to $140 (from $125).
Telsey Advisory Group analyst Dana Telsey increased the price target to $134 from $128 while reiterating the Outperform rating.
The analyst says that TJX&#8217;s consecutive earnings beats show that its value proposition resonates with consumers, supported by a favorable buying environment that meets increased traffic.
With a strong quarterly performance and raised FY24 guidance, TJX is set to continue gaining profitable market share through consistent comp gains and new store openings, including its 5,000th store, adds the analyst.
The analyst writes that the company is well-positioned this fiscal year to attract value-seeking consumers across all income brackets.
Telsey slightly raised the FY24 EPS estimate to $4.15 (from $4.13 earlier, compared to the previous consensus estimate of $4.13.
Moreover, reaffirming an Outperform rating, Evercore ISI Group increased the price target to $138 (from $126), BMO Capital to $133 (from $116), and Baird to $128 (from $113).
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Segall Bryant &amp; Hamill Trust Segall Bryant &amp; Hamill Select Equity ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USSE#NYSE">USSE</a>) and VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>).
Price Action: TJX shares are down 0.53% at $119.59 at the last check Thursday.
Photo via <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:TJ_Maxx_%2851922971696%29.jpg">Wikimedia Commons</a>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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TJX Companies Gains Analyst Confidence With Consecutive Earnings Beats And Market Share Growth

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

Target Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) shares are <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket" rel="noreferrer noopener">trading higher on Thursday</a>.
According to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro</a>, TGT stock has gained over 8% in the past year.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>) and&nbsp;SPDR Select Sector Fund &#8211; Consumer Staples (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>).
Yesterday, Oppenheimer analyst Rupesh Parikh maintained Target with an Outperform rating, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TGT/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">lowering the price forecast from&nbsp;$200&nbsp;to&nbsp;$180.</a>
Today, the stock is soaring following solid earnings results and an outlook boost from Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>).
Walmart&#8217;s second-quarter adjusted earnings per share of 67 cents exceeded the 64 cents estimate. The retail behemoth&#8217;s second-quarter revenue reached $169.3 billion, above the $168.569 billion estimate.
Check This Out: <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">Walmart Q2 Earnings: E-commerce and Advertising Businesses Fuel Revenue And Profit Beat, Hikes Annual Guidance</a>
Consolidated gross margin rate improved by 43 basis points, driven by Walmart U.S. and Walmart International.
Walmart announced that Bob Moritz, the retired Chairperson of PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), has been appointed to<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/08/b40390428/bob-moritz-former-pricewaterhousecoopers-chairperson-named-to-walmart-board-of-directors" rel="noreferrer noopener"> its Board of Directors, effective immediately.</a>
For the third quarter, Walmart projects adjusted earnings per share between 51 cents and 52 cents, versus the 55 cents estimate.
Walmart currently sees FY25 adjusted EPS outlook of $2.35 to $2.43 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">versus the $2.43 estimate.</a>
Walmart boosted FY25 net sales (at constant currency) growth guidance to 3.75%-4.75% from&nbsp;3.0%-&nbsp;4.0%.
Target is capitalizing on Walmart&#8217;s quarterly success by riding the positive momentum and boosting investor confidence, as evidenced by its rising stock price.
In June, Target declared a quarterly dividend of&nbsp;$1.12&nbsp;per common share, a 1.8% increase from the prior quarterly dividend of&nbsp;$1.10.&nbsp; The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/06/n39287040/target-corporation-increases-quarterly-dividend-by-1-8-percent" rel="noreferrer noopener">dividend is payable&nbsp;Sept. 10, 2024&nbsp;</a>
Earlier this week, Target announced that&nbsp;Amy Tu&nbsp;has been named chief legal and compliance officer and corporate secretary effective&nbsp;Aug. 25. She started her career in retail with senior legal roles at<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/08/n40332743/target-names-amy-tu-chief-legal-and-compliance-officer" rel="noreferrer noopener"> companies such as Walmart and The Gap.</a>
Price Action: At the last check Thursday, TGT shares were trading higher by 3.86% to $141.00 premarket, while WMT shares were trading higher by 7.59% to $73.87.
Photo via Shutterstock
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