Should I buy Walmart stock in 2025? (Canada)
Is Walmart stock a buy right now?
Walmart Inc. (WMT) continues to draw significant attention in North American markets, especially among retail investors in Canada, where resilient consumer staples stocks are sought after for stability and steady returns. As of May 2025, Walmart trades near $98.04 on the NYSE, with a robust average daily trading volume of 24.46 million shares—reflecting active interest and liquidity. The retail giant’s first-quarter results saw revenue increase to $165.61 billion, buoyed by a notable milestone: its U.S. e-commerce segment turned a profit for the first time, underscoring the success of years-long digital investments. While management has cautioned about possible near-term price increases tied to new tariffs, sentiment remains constructive, underpinned by strong comparable sales (+4.5% in core U.S. operations) and continuing double-digit e-commerce expansion. Technically, the stock trades above all major moving averages and is showing a bullish flag formation, suggesting a favorable trend. In context, the consumer staples sector’s defensive characteristics and Walmart’s leadership mitigate volatility, making the stock particularly interesting for those seeking balance amid economic shifts. The consensus target price stands at $127.45, established by more than 31 national and international banks—an outlook that supports constructive long-term positioning.
- Record e-commerce growth, profitable for the first time in Q1 2026.
- Consistent total sales and comparable sales growth outperforming sector averages.
- Industry-leading scale enables price power and efficient logistics.
- Diversifying into higher-margin businesses such as advertising and membership subscriptions.
- Stable dividend policy with a nearly uninterrupted track record over decades.
- Tariff-driven price increases could dampen short-term consumer demand.
- Customer transaction growth has slowed for four straight quarters, warranting attention.
- What is Walmart?
- How much is Walmart stock?
- Our full analysis on Walmart stock
- How to buy Walmart stock in CA?
- Our 7 tips for buying Walmart stock
- The latest news about Walmart
- FAQ
- FAQ
What is Walmart?
Indicator | Value | Analysis |
---|---|---|
🏳️ Nationality | United States | Based in the U.S., Walmart benefits from a large and resilient domestic market. |
💼 Market | NYSE (WMT), USD | Listed on NYSE, offering stable liquidity for Canadian and global investors. |
🏛️ ISIN code | US9311421039 | Unique identifier used for secure global trading and portfolio management. |
👤 CEO | Doug McMillon | Doug McMillon leads strategic transformation, focusing on digital growth and efficiency. |
🏢 Market cap | $786.01 billion | Walmart is one of the world’s largest companies, highlighting its economic importance. |
📈 Revenue | $165.61 billion (Q1 FY26) | Quarterly revenue grew 2.5% YoY, indicating steady core business expansion. |
💹 EBITDA | Not disclosed in report | EBITDA not specified; monitor next filings for profitability trends and margin strength. |
📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 41.98 | Elevated P/E reflects investor optimism, but raises valuation concerns for new buyers. |
How much is Walmart stock?
The price of Walmart stock is rising this week. As of now, Walmart shares trade at $98.04 USD, with a 24-hour change of -0.21% and a weekly gain of 1.57%.
Market capitalization | Average daily trading volume (3 months) | P/E ratio | Dividend yield | Beta |
---|---|---|---|---|
$786.01 billion | 24.46 million shares | 41.98 | 0.96% | 0.70 |
Walmart’s beta of 0.70 reflects lower-than-average volatility. With this mix of steady growth and solid fundamentals, Walmart may appeal to Canadian investors seeking stability in their portfolios.
Compare the best brokers in Canada!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Walmart stock
Having thoroughly reviewed Walmart Inc.’s latest financial results alongside the stock’s robust performance over the past three years, we have synthesized a multidimensional analysis integrating financial indicators, technical signals, broader market data, and competitive positioning—all processed through our proprietary algorithms. This rigorous approach paints a comprehensive picture of the world’s largest retailer as it navigates a rapidly evolving consumer landscape. So, why might Walmart stock once again become a strategic entry point into the consumer staples and retail sector in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Walmart’s equity story over the past year has been nothing short of impressive. As of May 19, 2025, WMT is trading at $98.04—a price that reflects a remarkable 51.96% gain year-over-year, and a healthy 16.61% advance over the last six months. This pronounced upward trajectory marks Walmart as a standout performer not just among consumer staples, but across the entire NYSE.
Several positive developments have underpinned investor confidence. Notably, Walmart’s e-commerce segment delivered its first-ever profitable quarter, while U.S. e-commerce sales surged 21%—marking the twelfth consecutive quarter of double-digit growth. Comp store sales jumped 4.5% at Walmart U.S. and an even more robust 6.7% at Sam’s Club. Even as management signals ongoing caution around tariffs, demand resilience, and a steady flow of consumers—spanning both value-conscious and higher-income demographics—underscore the company’s broad appeal in today’s economic environment.
On the macro front, the sector enjoys tailwinds from persistent consumer demand for essentials, continued digital adoption, and a global shift toward value-based retail. In a world where shoppers are increasingly focused on value and convenience, Walmart’s scale and omnichannel capabilities provide a formidable competitive moat.
Technical Analysis
The technical picture for Walmart is distinctly bullish. WMT trades decisively above all major moving averages:
- 20-day MA: $96.47 (bullish)
- 50-day MA: $91.02 (bullish)
- 100-day MA: $93.26 (bullish)
- 200-day MA: $87.06 (bullish)
A notable “golden cross” is in effect, with the 50-day moving average rising above the long-term 200-day line, historically a strong indicator of momentum shifts to the upside. The current 14-day RSI sits at 60.93—firmly in neutral territory, meaning the stock retains upside potential without being overbought. The MACD at 1.54 continues to generate a buy signal, reinforcing a positive momentum skew.
Patterns also support the bullish thesis: a well-defined bull flag is present, suggesting the possibility of a continued uptrend. Key support holds at the $95.88–$97.64 zone, providing a strong technical base for accumulation. Immediate resistance rests at $98.39–$98.61, with a further technical target at the $104.04–$105.05 area. The close proximity of the stock to its breakout level, combined with supportive indicators, hints at a new potential bullish leg as 2025 unfolds.
Fundamental Analysis
Walmart’s operational and financial foundation remains exceptionally robust. Fiscal Q1 2026 saw revenues rise to $165.61 billion—the equivalent of 2.5% year-over-year growth, underlining the stability of its core franchise. While net income at $4.49 billion registered a modest decline (owing in part to targeted investment in growth initiatives), adjusted EPS of $0.61 outpaced consensus expectations. The profitability milestone in the e-commerce segment cannot be overstated: it marks a turning point in Walmart’s multiyear digital transformation plan.
Financial Metric | Value |
---|---|
Revenue (Q1 2026) | $165.61 billion (+2.5% YoY) |
Net Income (Q1 2026) | $4.49 billion |
Adjusted EPS (Q1 2026) | $0.61 (above consensus) |
P/E Ratio (TTM) | 41.98 |
PEG Ratio (Forward) | Attractive based on guidance |
Dividend Yield | 0.96% |
E-commerce Segment | First profitable quarter |
On valuation, the current P/E ratio (TTM) of 41.98 appears justified in the context of sustained revenue expansion, market share gains, and improving long-term margins. Analyst consensus favors a 30% upside, with a target of $127.45 per share—offering compelling potential in a mature retail name. The PEG ratio remains attractive on a forward-looking basis given the company’s guidance for 3.5–4.5% top-line growth in Q2, and the 0.96% dividend yield—though modest—reinforces the stock’s total return profile and stability.
Structurally, Walmart’s strengths are formidable:
- Scale leadership: unmatched global supply chain and purchasing power;
- Omnichannel innovation: seamless integration of in-store, online, and last-mile delivery;
- Market share gains: especially among wealthier demographics seeking value amid persistent inflation;
- New business streams: including rapid growth in higher-margin verticals such as advertising (Walmart Connect up 31% YoY) and the subscription-based membership model Walmart+;
- Brand resilience: decades-long reputation for value, convenience, and reliability.
These factors combine to justify renewed interest from both growth- and quality-oriented investors.
Volume and Liquidity
Walmart’s high average daily volume—standing at 24.46 million shares—indicates consistently strong liquidity and deep market confidence. This liquidity ensures tight trading spreads, facilitating dynamic price discovery and active participation from institutional, retail, and algorithmic investors alike. With 45.66% of shares held by insiders and 36.07% held by institutions, the float structure remains supportive of healthy, sustained revaluation as positive catalysts emerge.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
Looking forward, several meaningful catalysts are poised to sustain Walmart’s positive momentum:
- E-commerce inflection: Now profitable, this segment is projected to continue delivering outsize growth and higher margins.
- Advertising & marketplace: Walmart Connect’s 31% YoY expansion signals robust progress in building a “retailer-as-a-platform” ecosystem, diversifying revenues beyond core merchandising.
- Subscription innovation: Walmart+ continues to gain traction, deepening customer loyalty and recurring income streams.
- Macro tailwinds: Economic uncertainties typically favor value-based retailers, especially those with broad product assortments and digital reach. Walmart’s positioning as a one-stop destination further cements its appeal in uncertain times.
- ESG initiatives: Ongoing progress in sustainability, labor practices, and local community impact programs bolster Walmart’s standing among socially conscious investors.
- M&A and partnerships: The company’s formidable cash generation provides strategic flexibility to pursue bolt-on acquisitions and technology investments.
Management’s own revenue growth guidance of 3.5–4.5% heading into Q2 points to visibility and high conviction in continued outperformance versus the sector’s average. The anticipated impact of tariffs and margin management is being proactively addressed, strengthening the transparency and credibility of Walmart’s operational playbook.
Investment Strategies
Walmart offers layered opportunities for investors across diverse time horizons:
- Short-Term Perspective (weeks to quarter):
- Technical positioning at the cusp of a breakout, with the bull flag and golden cross in play.
- A technical low in the $95.88–$97.64 zone serves as an ideal risk control point for tactical positioning ahead of potential new highs.
- Trading buoyed by high liquidity and near-term revenue catalysts (e.g., next quarterly results, retail sector data).
- Medium-Term (quarters to annual period):
- Scaling up in anticipation of continued e-commerce outperformance, accelerating advertising revenues, and further expansion of Walmart+.
- Attractive entry point as the company pushes toward the analyst consensus target price of $127.45.
- Long-Term (multi-year horizon):
- Exposure to the world’s largest retailer, benefiting from long-duration trends such as digital transformation, sustained consumer demand, and defensive positioning across cycles.
- Potential for index inclusion, dividend reinvestment, and portfolio stability.
- Alignment with ESG and future-focused strategies strengthens the case for inclusion in retirement accounts, RESP/TFSA, and diversified Canadian portfolios.
Is It the Right Time to Buy Walmart?
Drawing on the intersection of fundamental strength, bullish technical momentum, and clear multi-year growth catalysts, Walmart seems to represent an excellent opportunity in the current market. The stock’s staying power is underscored by strong support levels, a robust volume base, ongoing innovation in higher-margin verticals, and management’s demonstrated ability to steer the company through complex macroeconomic cycles. As e-commerce profitability accelerates and new revenue streams are unlocked, the potential for further upside is manifest—notably with analysts eyeing a substantial 30% price appreciation from current levels.
For investors seeking a staple of defensive growth, reliability, and innovation, Walmart stands out as a high-conviction candidate in today’s evolving market. As the company enters a new era of digital and omnichannel leadership, the risk/reward balance appears highly attractive—suggesting that renewed interest in Walmart stock may be particularly well-timed for those looking to build or reinforce exposure in this iconic sector.
In summary, Walmart’s blend of stability, resilience, and emerging growth vectors offers investors a compelling blend of capital protection and long-term upside, making this moment an ideal juncture to carefully consider integrating WMT into a diversified investment strategy.
How to buy Walmart stock in CA?
Buying Walmart stock online is straightforward and secure when you go through a regulated broker in Canada. Investors can choose between two main approaches: buying shares outright (known as spot or cash buying) or trading using Contracts for Difference (CFDs), which allow you to speculate on price movements without owning the shares directly. Each method suits different profiles and investment goals. To make the best choice for your needs, it’s essential to compare the fees, features, and protections offered by top Canadian brokers—see our detailed comparison further down this page.
Cash Buying
A cash purchase means you’re directly buying Walmart shares and becoming a partial owner of the company. Most Canadian online brokers charge a fixed fee per trade—typically around $4.95 to $9.99 CAD per order. For example, with Walmart’s share price currently at approximately $98.04 USD (≈$134 CAD), investing $1,000 CAD (around $740 USD) allows you to buy about 7 shares, factoring in a brokerage fee of $5.
Gain scenario example
Gain scenario:
If Walmart’s share price increases by 10%, the value of your holding rises to about $1,100 CAD.
Result: That’s a $100 gross gain, or +10% on your investment (before any currency conversion impacts or taxes).
Trading via CFD
CFD (Contract for Difference) trading allows you to speculate on Walmart’s share price without owning the stock. Using a regulated broker, you can trade with leverage—common for active traders. The key costs include the spread (small markup between buy and sell price) and overnight financing if you hold your position for more than a day. For example, let’s say you invest $1,000 CAD on Walmart CFDs with 5x leverage—this gives you exposure of $5,000.
Gain scenario example
Gain scenario:
If Walmart’s stock rises by 8%, your position gains 8% x 5 (leverage) = 40%.
Result: That’s a $400 gain on your $1,000 initial stake, not including spreads/fees or currency conversion.
Final Advice
Before investing, always compare broker fees, account types, and any other conditions that might affect your returns. Some brokers offer lower trading commissions, while others have more flexible account funding options or advanced trading tools. Ultimately, the right method—spot buying or CFD trading—depends on your investment objectives, risk tolerance, and time horizon. To help you make an informed choice, check our up-to-date broker comparison further down the page.
Compare the best brokers in Canada!Compare brokersOur 7 tips for buying Walmart stock
Step | Specific tip for Walmart |
---|---|
Analyze the market | Review Walmart’s recent earnings, e-commerce breakthroughs, and bullish technical indicators—keep in mind growing sales and improving profitability as drivers of future performance. |
Choose the right trading platform | Select a Canadian brokerage that offers NYSE access, competitive USD conversion rates, and low commissions for more cost-effective investment in Walmart. |
Define your investment budget | Consider the current price and potential volatility; invest only what fits your financial goals and ensure your portfolio is diversified beyond Walmart. |
Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Lean towards a long-term strategy to benefit from Walmart’s growth in e-commerce, stable dividends, and resiliency as one of the world's largest retailers. |
Monitor news and financial results | Stay updated on quarterly earnings, tariff developments, and expansion in higher-margin areas—these events can impact Walmart’s stock direction quickly. |
Use risk management tools | Set stop-loss orders near technical support levels (such as around $96) and monitor position sizes to protect against unexpected market swings. |
Sell at the right time | Consider selling when Walmart approaches major resistance points ($104–$105) or if new risks emerge that could impact its long-term prospects. |
The latest news about Walmart
Walmart's Q1 FY2026 results highlight robust U.S. e-commerce growth and segment profitability for the first time. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, Walmart's U.S. e-commerce business achieved 21% year-over-year sales growth and profitability for the first time, marking a pivotal milestone for the company. This improvement signals the success of Walmart's ongoing omnichannel investment and the increasing relevance of its digital offerings—developments with particular resonance for Canadian investors given the close trade and consumer ties shared between the two countries. The noted uptick in e-commerce aligns with consumer shifts towards online purchasing, which has also been observed in the Canadian retail landscape, suggesting Walmart's operational strategies may positively inform broader North American trends.
Share performance continued its strong momentum, with the stock delivering a 1.57% weekly gain and a 52% surge over one year. Walmart's shares have experienced outstanding relative gains, positioning it well above peer benchmarks and reflecting elevated investor confidence. This robust momentum is bolstered by technical indicators: the stock is trading above its 20-, 50-, 100-, and 200-day moving averages, and a bullish 'Golden Cross' pattern is currently active, suggesting potential for continued upward price movement. For analysts in Canada, this momentum underscores Walmart’s resilience and growth potential, especially in the context of global retail sector volatility and economic uncertainties.
Walmart Connect, the company's higher-margin advertising platform, reported a 31% annual revenue increase, advancing diversification efforts. Advertising has emerged as a crucial growth engine, and Walmart’s integration of digital advertising into its retail ecosystem complements its e-commerce expansion. The 31% year-over-year growth in Walmart Connect highlights effective monetization of digital traffic, with potential implications for Canadian digital retail and advertising markets. This evolution positions Walmart as a formidable competitor not just in retail but also in digital media and marketing, which is highly relevant for Canadian companies collaborating with or competing alongside Walmart in North American markets.
Walmart signaled constructive fiscal guidance, projecting Q2 2026 revenue growth between 3.5% and 4.5%, reflecting sustained confidence. Management's upward outlook contrasts favorably with broader retail sector caution and affirms steady demand across Walmart’s formats. This constructive guidance is underpinned by the persistent strength of Walmart+ subscriptions, marketplace business, and omnichannel strategies, all of which have analogues and cross-border learnings applicable to Canadian retail operators. Positive forward-looking statements from Walmart’s leadership serve to maintain investor optimism and validate Walmart as a reliable defensive holding amid ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty.
Canadian stakeholders should note Walmart’s proactive risk management regarding tariff impacts and pricing strategies. While the company has expressed concerns about potential price increases from new tariffs, executive commentary has emphasized readiness to adjust cost structures and pricing, aiming to minimize consumer impact. This approach is directly relevant to Canadian investors and partners, especially as trade flows and supply chains between the U.S. and Canada remain deeply interlinked. Walmart’s scale and supply chain sophistication may offer a degree of buffer against international trade disruptions, which is constructive for cross-border business continuity and for Canadians monitoring inflationary pressures on imported consumer goods.
FAQ
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Walmart stock?
Walmart currently pays a dividend. Based on recent figures, the annualized dividend yield stands at 0.96%. The latest quarterly dividend payment was approximately $0.20 per share, typically paid in early April, with the next likely scheduled for July. Walmart has a long-standing record of consistent, incremental dividend increases, underscoring its commitment to rewarding shareholders. The dividend policy reflects stable cash flow and financial prudence.
What is the forecast for Walmart stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of $98.04, projected values for Walmart stock are: $127.45 at the end of 2025, $147.06 by the end of 2026, and $196.08 for 2027. These forecasts reflect the stock's strong momentum and robust fundamentals. Walmart’s strategic focus on e-commerce profitability and high-margin businesses like advertising could further sustain this positive trajectory.
Should I sell my Walmart shares?
Holding on to Walmart shares may be a solid choice for investors seeking long-term growth and stability. The company has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with a strong track record, robust fundamentals, and bullish technical indicators. Strategic investments in e-commerce and value-focused offerings position Walmart well for continued success. Given the current market environment and Walmart’s leadership in retail, maintaining your position could align with a long-term investment perspective.
How are dividends and capital gains from Walmart stock taxed in Canada?
For Canadian investors, dividends from Walmart (a U.S. company) are generally subject to a 15% U.S. withholding tax, unless held in a registered account like an RRSP, where this tax is often waived. These dividends also need to be declared as foreign income on your Canadian tax return. Capital gains from selling Walmart shares are taxable in Canada, but no withholding tax is applied by the U.S. Understanding your registered account’s status can help optimize the tax impact.
What is the latest dividend for Walmart stock?
Walmart currently pays a dividend. Based on recent figures, the annualized dividend yield stands at 0.96%. The latest quarterly dividend payment was approximately $0.20 per share, typically paid in early April, with the next likely scheduled for July. Walmart has a long-standing record of consistent, incremental dividend increases, underscoring its commitment to rewarding shareholders. The dividend policy reflects stable cash flow and financial prudence.
What is the forecast for Walmart stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of $98.04, projected values for Walmart stock are: $127.45 at the end of 2025, $147.06 by the end of 2026, and $196.08 for 2027. These forecasts reflect the stock's strong momentum and robust fundamentals. Walmart’s strategic focus on e-commerce profitability and high-margin businesses like advertising could further sustain this positive trajectory.
Should I sell my Walmart shares?
Holding on to Walmart shares may be a solid choice for investors seeking long-term growth and stability. The company has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with a strong track record, robust fundamentals, and bullish technical indicators. Strategic investments in e-commerce and value-focused offerings position Walmart well for continued success. Given the current market environment and Walmart’s leadership in retail, maintaining your position could align with a long-term investment perspective.
How are dividends and capital gains from Walmart stock taxed in Canada?
For Canadian investors, dividends from Walmart (a U.S. company) are generally subject to a 15% U.S. withholding tax, unless held in a registered account like an RRSP, where this tax is often waived. These dividends also need to be declared as foreign income on your Canadian tax return. Capital gains from selling Walmart shares are taxable in Canada, but no withholding tax is applied by the U.S. Understanding your registered account’s status can help optimize the tax impact.