Walmart seen posting nearly 4% Q3 EPS growth in test of consumer resiliency

Shares of Walmart WMT.N off about 1% ahead of the company's results due before the bell on Thursday, as investors eye consumer health

Retail giant expected to post adj EPS of $0.60, or 3.6% higher than Q3 2024, on revenue of $177.43 bln vs $169.59 bln a year ago, according to LSEG data

Co missed EPS estimates last qtr, but has beaten estimates over remaining eight most recent qtrs

On Nov 14, CEO Doug McMillon announced he'll retire next year, capping more than a decade at the helm of the world's largest retailer

In its last report, despite EPS disappointment, WMT showed revenue boost on strong consumer demand across the spectrum of income levels

Of the 44 analysts covering the stock, 43 rate "strong buy" or "buy", while one recommends "hold"

Median PT of $115 is approx 15% above current levels

Including move on the session, WMT shares up ~11% YTD compared with the Dow's .DJI ~8.5% gain and S&P 500 Consumer Staples sector's .SPLRCS ~0.3% decline