Costco stock eases after strong Q3 2026 earnings and expansion push
Costco's stock experienced a slight dip after its robust Q3 2026 earnings report, which highlighted strong double-digit sales growth and membership fee income. Despite an ambitious $6.5 billion expansion plan and continued solid fundamentals, investors are evaluating the company's high valuation. The article also notes strong analyst support and a positive long-term outlook, driven by its unique membership model and strategic growth initiatives.
Is The J. M. Smucker Positioned for a Beat in Q1 Earnings?
The J. M. Smucker Company (SJM) is expected to report its Q1 fiscal 2027 earnings on August 26th. Despite an anticipated slight revenue decline, earnings are projected to increase by 16.3% year-over-year, driven by higher gross profit in U.S. Retail Coffee and lower interest expenses. The company currently holds a Zacks Rank #3 and an Earnings ESP of +1.77%, indicating a potential earnings beat.
BJ's Wholesale gains after comparable sales and membership fee income shine in Q2 (BJ:NYSE)
BJ's Wholesale Club (BJ) saw its stock gain after reporting strong second-quarter earnings. The company's total comparable club sales increased by 11.9%, with membership fee income rising 9.9% due to strong acquisition, retention, and premium tier penetration. BJ's projects adjusted EPS of $4.60–$4.80 for the full year, exceeding consensus estimates, and expects comparable club sales growth of 2.0% to 3.0%.
Daymark Wealth Partners LLC Has $32.71 Million Holdings in Costco Wholesale Corporation $COST
Daymark Wealth Partners LLC increased its stake in Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) by 24.8% during the second quarter, bringing its total holdings to 34,966 shares valued at $32.71 million. The article also highlights that institutional investors collectively own 68.48% of Costco, analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with an average price target of $1,059.53, and the company recently increased its dividend by 13.1%. However, concerns about Costco's premium valuation and a slight miss on quarterly EPS estimates are noted.
Costco in West Fresno pauses food court operations. Goodbye hot dogs, for now
The Costco in West Fresno will close its food court for renovations starting August 24, with operations expected to resume in approximately 30 days. During this time, popular items like hot dogs and pizzas will be unavailable, but the rest of the warehouse will remain open. Customers seeking hot dogs can purchase frozen versions inside, and the other two Fresno-area Costco locations will continue full food court service.
Raised 2026 Sales Outlook Amid Mixed Earnings Could Be A Game Changer For Grocery Outlet Holding (GO)
Grocery Outlet Holding (GO) reported mixed Q2 2026 earnings with higher sales but a net loss for the first six months, yet raised its full-year 2026 net sales guidance to $4.70-$4.72 billion. This optimistic sales outlook is driven by operational improvements like stronger opportunistic sourcing and traffic gains. The company's investment narrative focuses on whether its discount model can achieve durable profitability and overcome structural challenges indicated by past losses.
Costco Wholesale (NASDAQ:COST) Stock Price Down 2.5% - Here's What Happened
Costco Wholesale (NASDAQ:COST) shares dropped 2.5% after its quarterly EPS of $4.93 narrowly missed analyst estimates, despite revenue exceeding expectations. The company is pursuing new growth areas, including a partnership with SCAN Group for Medicare Advantage plans and expanding retail media and pharmacy services, while also increasing its dividend by 13.1%. Despite the slight earnings miss, analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with an average price target of $1,059.53.
Costco Wholesale Corp. stock underperforms Thursday when compared to competitors
Costco Wholesale Corp. (COST) stock fell by 2.45% on Thursday, closing at $933.51. This underperformance occurred on a day when the broader market also saw declines, with the S&P 500 Index dropping 0.87% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average falling 1.32%. This marks the second consecutive day of losses for Costco's stock.
Walmart slows down: what the retail giant’s earnings say about consumer spending
Walmart's quarterly sales fell short of expectations, marking its slowest growth in over six years, primarily due to pricing pressure in its pharmacy business and suggesting a deceleration alongside a slow-growing US economy. Despite the challenges, the retail giant raised its full-year guidance for sales and adjusted operating income, as it continues to gain market share by lowering prices and expanding e-commerce offerings. The company faces ongoing pressure from elevated fuel costs and a competitive retail environment, reflecting broader consumer sentiment shifts and selective spending habits.
Costco Just Upped Its Dividend by 13.1%. Here's How Much $10,000 Invested Pays Each Year.
Costco recently increased its quarterly dividend by 13.1% to $1.47 per share, totaling $5.88 annually. A $10,000 investment in Costco stock would yield just over $61 per year, representing a 0.61% dividend yield. While the regular dividend is modest, Costco frequently issues special one-time dividends, with five declared since 2012, making it a potentially attractive long-term investment despite its high valuation.
Walmart beats Street on Q2 EPS, revenues; misses on U.S. comp sales
Walmart reported strong Q2 fiscal 2027 results, exceeding analyst expectations for total revenues of $187.9 billion and adjusted EPS of $0.81. However, the company missed U.S. comparative sales forecasts, with a rise of only 2.6% against predictions of 3.7-3.8%. E-commerce sales and the advertising business were highlights, showing significant growth.
BJ’s Wholesale Club earnings up next as analysts eye comp rebound
BJ’s Wholesale Club is expected to report its second-quarter earnings before the market opens on Friday, with analysts anticipating a rebound in comparable-store sales. The company is projected to post earnings of $1.17 per share on revenue of $5.97 billion, an improvement from the previous quarter. Key areas of focus for investors include sustained comparable sales growth, the success of its Texas expansion, and general merchandise trends, especially after its investments in pricing and membership value.
Costco Is Quietly Building Its Next Big Growth Engine
Costco is expanding its growth beyond traditional membership and warehouse expansion by scaling its digital, advertising, and pharmacy services. These new engines, particularly AI search driving triple-digit traffic growth and strong pharmacy sales, are reshaping its financial model and justifying its premium valuation. Despite a choppy year and some valuation concerns, analysts project significant upside with a "BUY" recommendation based on continued digital and membership growth.
Costco Expands Into Senior Health Care
Costco Wholesale Corp. is expanding its partnership with SCAN Health Plan to offer Costco-branded Medicare plans, marking its first comprehensive alliance with a Medicare provider. This initiative aims to provide seniors with integrated health coverage including pharmacy services, vision, hearing, and over-the-counter benefits. The move builds on an existing collaboration and seeks to make healthcare more accessible and value-driven for older adults.
Stocks dip as bond yields and oil rise, Walmart earnings drag on retail: AlphaCheck
Stocks opened lower as Treasury yields recovered, and oil prices rose due to concerns about renewed conflict in the Middle East following President Trump's statements. Walmart's significant 8% decline after reporting earnings negatively impacted the Consumer Discretionary and Consumer Staples sectors, also affecting other defensive stocks like Costco, while energy stocks outperformed.
Costco Wholesale Corporation $COST Shares Bought by Zhang Financial LLC
Zhang Financial LLC significantly increased its stake in Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) by 133.6% in Q2 2026, bringing their total to 5,175 shares valued at approximately $4.84 million. Institutional investors collectively own 68.48% of Costco's stock, despite its high valuation of around 48 times earnings. Costco reported Q2 revenue of $70.53 billion, exceeding estimates, but narrowly missed EPS consensus with $4.93.
Costco brought back a popular favorite after 2 years. See what's back
Costco has brought back its Kirkland Signature semi-sweet chocolate chips after a two-year hiatus. The 4.5-pound bags are now available in stores and online, priced between $11.99 and $14.99. The product was previously discontinued in mid-2024 due to rising cocoa prices.
Aberdeen Group plc Has $324.43 Million Stock Holdings in Costco Wholesale Corporation $COST
Aberdeen Group plc reduced its stake in Costco Wholesale Corporation by 2.2% in the second quarter, now holding 346,814 shares valued at $324.43 million. Other institutional investors also adjusted their positions in Costco. The article also discusses key news impacting Costco, including a new Medicare Advantage offering, potential for a special dividend, its merchandising strategy, and valuation concerns, alongside recent analyst ratings and insider trading activity.
BJ's Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:BJ) Given Consensus Recommendation of "Hold" by Analysts
Analysts have issued a "Hold" consensus rating for BJ's Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:BJ), with an average 12-month price target of $105.33 against a recent share price of $91.98. The company recently surpassed quarterly earnings expectations, reporting $1.10 EPS on $5.66 billion in revenue, and has issued FY 2026 EPS guidance of $4.40–$4.60. While institutional investors have significantly increased their stakes, the CEO and an EVP have recently sold shares.
Costco stock trades close to record highs as cash pile and healthcare expansion shape the outlook
Costco's stock is trading near record highs, driven by a growing cash reserve and a new healthcare partnership. The company's strong balance sheet has led to speculation about a potential special dividend later in 2026, while the Medicare Advantage plan initiative is expected to open a new growth channel and deepen member relationships. Analysts maintain a "moderate buy" rating, with an average price target suggesting further upside.
Costco Teams With SCAN Health Plan to Sell Medicare Coverage
Costco Wholesale Corp. has partnered with SCAN Health Plan to offer co-branded Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement insurance products, initially launching as a pilot program in three states, pending regulatory approval. This move expands Costco's healthcare offerings by integrating its existing pharmacy, optical, and hearing center infrastructure into these new insurance products. The initiative targets Medicare-eligible enrollees and is expected to leverage Costco's strong brand loyalty and demographic focus on older consumers.
Nike, Target, Amer Sports + More Companies Have Gotten Tariff Refunds — Will Shoppers See Them Too?
Several major companies, including Nike, Target, and Amer Sports, have received significant tariff refunds due to reciprocal duties that were imposed last year and later ruled illegal. While these companies are benefiting, consumers who paid higher prices due to the tariffs are questioning if they will also receive refunds, with some lawsuits already filed against companies like Costco and Nike. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is only processing refunds for registered importers, and it remains unclear how consumer-related lawsuits will be resolved.
Costco launching Medicare Advantage plans with SCAN Group
Costco Wholesale Corp. and nonprofit insurer SCAN Group have partnered to launch Costco-branded Medicare Advantage plans, marking Costco's first foray into the Medicare market. This collaboration aims to enhance the healthcare experience for older adults by combining SCAN's expertise with Costco's trusted consumer brand, with future plans for redesigned pharmacy experiences and expanded benefits. Both companies emphasize a shared commitment to providing accessible, connected, and seamlessly integrated healthcare solutions.
Costco enters first partnership with Medicare plan
Costco Wholesale Corp. is partnering with Scan Health Plan, a not-for-profit Medicare provider, for its first comprehensive partnership with a Medicare plan. This collaboration will launch senior-focused insurance products, potentially including a reinvented pharmacy experience and other Medicare services. This move follows Costco's earlier ventures into healthcare services with Sesame and aligns with a broader trend of retailers like Walmart and Amazon offering Medicare services.
Target collected $1B tariff refund. Will shoppers see any savings?
Target recently announced it received nearly $1 billion in tariff refunds, sparking public debate on whether these savings will be passed on to consumers. While Target's CFO mentioned "investing in price," an analyst interpreted this as more promotions and discounts rather than across-the-board price cuts. Other major retailers like Costco are also expected to pass on savings from similar refunds.
Costco enters the Medicare Advantage market through SCAN partnership
Costco Wholesale Corporation is partnering with SCAN Health Plan to enter the Medicare Advantage market. This collaboration will involve selling Medicare Advantage products in two states and a Medicare supplement in a third, along with plans for integrated benefits like pharmacy experience and Medflex over-the-counter benefits, pending regulatory approval. This expanded alliance marks Costco's first comprehensive partnership with a Medicare Plan, aiming to offer a suite of senior-focused insurance products and services.
Kroger Has a Foot-Traffic Problem — Or Does It? The Numbers Tell Two Different Stories
Kroger is facing conflicting data regarding customer foot traffic, with the company reporting increased visits and analysts suggesting a decline. This discrepancy highlights the changing nature of grocery shopping, as e-commerce grows and customers utilize multiple channels. The article suggests that the real battle for supermarkets like Kroger is to maintain a connection with customers across all shopping methods, rather than solely focusing on in-store visits.
Dollar Cost Averaging Into the SCHG ETF Worked for Ten Years. This Year It Is Buying You Less Than the SPY.
The article discusses how the Schwab U.S. Large-Cap Growth ETF (SCHG) significantly outperformed the S&P 500 over the past decade, returning 445% compared to SPY's 254%. However, in 2026, SCHG is lagging, up only 9% year-to-date, while SPY returned 13% and QQQ nearly 19%. The author explains that SCHG's concentrated holdings in megacap growth names, which drove past success, are now causing it to underperform as the market rally broadens. The article advises that this underperformance is not a problem for long-term accumulators, as lower prices mean more shares purchased, but poses a "sequence-of-returns risk" for those near retirement.
Nike, Target, Amer Sports + More Companies Have Gotten Tariff Refunds — Will Shoppers See Them Too?
Several major companies including Nike, Target, and Amer Sports have received substantial tariff refunds for duties that were later ruled illegal by the U.S. Supreme Court. While these companies saw significant boosts to their net income, it remains unclear if the higher prices paid by consumers due to these tariffs will be refunded, with multiple lawsuits filed by shoppers and advocacy groups seeking such restitution. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is currently only processing refunds for registered importers, and brands face challenges in identifying and refunding individual shoppers.
Exclusive: Kimco, Costco Make $59M LA Deal
Kimco Realty has sold its 195,473-square-foot Costco Plaza retail center in Alhambra, Calif., to Costco Wholesale for $58.9 million. This acquisition is part of Costco's strategy to purchase the fee interest in properties it leases and is also part of Kimco's program to sell low-growth assets and reinvest in higher-growth, grocery-anchored centers. The transaction follows Kimco's earlier sale of four Costco-anchored assets for $127 million, with proceeds intended for 1031 exchange investments.
Diversify Advisory Services LLC Invests $2.92 Million in BJ's Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. $BJ
Diversify Advisory Services LLC recently acquired 30,840 shares of BJ's Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. worth approximately $2.92 million, increasing institutional ownership to 98.6%. Despite mixed analyst sentiment resulting in a consensus "Hold" rating, BJ's recently surpassed quarterly earnings and revenue expectations. However, notable stock sales by executives, including CEO Robert W. Eddy, have also occurred.
Elevated Private Wealth LLC Makes New Investment in Costco Wholesale Corporation $COST
Elevated Private Wealth LLC has made a new investment in Costco Wholesale Corporation, purchasing 1,070 shares valued at approximately $1,001,000. Other institutional investors have also adjusted their positions in Costco, with hedge funds and institutional investors collectively owning 68.48% of the company's stock. The article also covers Costco's recent financial performance, dividend announcement, insider transactions, and analyst ratings, noting both positive sentiment regarding new Medicare Advantage plans and member monetization, and concerns about its elevated valuation despite strong five-year returns.
Assetmark Inc. Has $60.51 Million Stake in Costco Wholesale Corporation $COST
Assetmark Inc. has reduced its stake in Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) by 2.2%, now holding 64,684 shares valued at $60.51 million. Despite this, institutional ownership of Costco remains high at 68.48%, with many other funds increasing their positions. Analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating for Costco, but valuation concerns persist due to a high P/E ratio, even as the company continues to see strong membership growth and recently exceeded revenue estimates.
Costco Stock Gains After New Medicare Partnership Is Revealed
Costco Wholesale Corp. is partnering with SCAN Health Plan to develop Medicare Advantage products, including redesigned pharmacy services, vision, and hearing benefits, aimed at older adults. This move signals Costco's further expansion into healthcare, following which its stock rose by 0.82% to $961.35. The partnership's full financial impact and launch details are pending regulatory approval.
Costco plots major expansion into senior healthcare with Medicare partnership
Costco is expanding significantly into senior healthcare by partnering with SCAN Health Plan to offer Medicare Advantage plans. This collaboration aims to provide a suite of senior-focused insurance products, including revamped pharmacy experiences, vision care, and audiology benefits. The initiative seeks to simplify healthcare access for seniors and will sell plans in Costco stores, through insurance agents, and online, pending regulatory approval.
Costco strikes first comprehensive Medicare plan partnership with SCAN Health Plan
Costco announced an expanded strategic partnership with SCAN Health Plan, marking Costco's first comprehensive alliance with a Medicare plan. This collaboration aims to enhance value for older adults by combining SCAN’s experience with Costco’s consumer reach, with plans to launch a suite of senior-focused insurance products, including potential pharmacy, vision, and audiology services. Both companies emphasize a shared commitment to making healthcare easier to navigate and more responsive to seniors' needs.
Clorox Dips 0.4% as Lettuce Scare Seen Cutting U.S. Retail Sales by 0.55%
Clorox shares fell 0.37% after a lettuce-related illness outbreak impacted sales of its Hidden Valley dressing, leading to a projected 0.55% reduction in Clorox's U.S. retail sales. While Kraft Heinz also saw dressing sales decline, Clorox faces a more significant proportional drag due to dressings accounting for 11% of its U.S. retail revenue. Analysts anticipate a gradual rebound, but the incident highlights Clorox's challenge for organic growth following a weak fiscal year.
Soon you can buy Medicare Advantage plans at Costco. What you need to know.
Costco Wholesale is expanding its offerings by partnering with nonprofit insurer SCAN Group to sell jointly branded Medicare Advantage and Medicare supplement plans. This move makes Costco the latest consumer brand to venture into offering health insurance options. The new plans will be available alongside Costco's existing wide range of products and services.
Costco Has a 92-Percent Renewal Rate. Now, It's Testing Whether That Loyalty Can Sell Medicare
Costco is leveraging its high membership renewal rate to enter the Medicare market through a partnership with SCAN Group. They plan to launch co-branded Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans in select states, with sales occurring in stores, online, and via agents. This initiative is seen as an asset-light expansion into healthcare, building on Costco's brand and existing health-related services.
Costco launching Medicare Advantage plans with SCAN Group
Costco Wholesale Corporation is entering the Medicare market through a partnership with nonprofit insurer SCAN Group. They will sell jointly branded Medicare Advantage plans in two states and a Medicare supplement plan in a third, pending regulatory approval. The plans aim to integrate with Costco's existing offerings and will be sold in stores, through agents, and other channels.
Costco Shares Gain 1.9% With Medicare Pilot Now Reaching 5 Million Participants (NASDAQ:COST)
Costco's shares increased by 1.9% following news of a new Medicare collaboration with SCAN Group, targeting approximately 5 million Medicare enrollees across three states. While specific details on states and timing are pending regulatory approval, the initiative aims to enhance customer relationships and boost revenue in pharmacy and other health-related categories. Investors are keenly watching for financial specifics and rollout plans, as the stock currently trades at a premium valuation.
SCAN and Costco Launch Landmark Partnership to Reimagine Healthcare for Older Adults
SCAN Health Plan and Costco Wholesale Corporation have announced an expanded strategic partnership aimed at enhancing healthcare for older adults. This collaboration, Costco's first comprehensive partnership with a Medicare Plan, will introduce senior-focused insurance products, potentially including a re-invented pharmacy experience, Medflex OTC benefits, vision, and audiology. The initiative seeks to make healthcare more accessible, connected, and integrated into daily life for Medicare Advantage members.
PBJ vs. XLP: Which Consumer Staples ETF Is the Better Bet?
This article compares two consumer staples ETFs, the Invesco Food & Beverage ETF (PBJ) and the State Street Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLP), to determine which is a better investment. XLP is highlighted as the superior choice due to its significantly lower expense ratio (0.08% vs. 0.61%), higher dividend yield (2.6% vs. 1.3%), and stronger historical total returns over five years. The article emphasizes XLP's broader diversification within consumer staples compared to PBJ's more concentrated focus on the food industry.
Costco Wholesale Corp (COST) Technical Analysis: Support, Resistance, Indicators & Moving Averages
This article provides a technical analysis of Costco Wholesale Corp (COST), detailing its current price momentum, support and resistance levels, and various technical indicators like MACD, RSI, and moving averages. The analysis suggests that COST is currently suitable for range-bound swing trading, with most indicators pointing to a "Sell" or "Neutral" signal. It also includes an FAQ section explaining technical ratings and moving averages.
Costco stock slides as Medicare plans widen the story
Costco's stock fell 0.79% to $953.50 on August 17, 2026, as the company announced a new Medicare initiative with SCAN Group, despite reporting strong fiscal third-quarter results with $70.53 billion in revenue and $4.93 in EPS. The move into Medicare Advantage and supplemental plans is seen as a new growth narrative beyond its traditional warehouse sales, complementing its robust membership fee income. Investors are now evaluating whether this new healthcare venture can add significant revenue without diverting focus from its successful core business.
SCAN and Costco Launch Landmark Partnership to Reimagine Healthcare for Older Adults
SCAN Health Plan and Costco Wholesale Corporation have announced an expanded strategic partnership to enhance healthcare for older adults, marking Costco's first comprehensive collaboration with a Medicare Plan. This alliance aims to combine SCAN's expertise in serving seniors with Costco's consumer trust, introducing new senior-focused insurance products and services. The initiative seeks to make healthcare more accessible, integrated, and responsive to the needs of Medicare Advantage members.
Hershey Shares Drop 1.7% as Margin Rebound Faces Pressure from El Niño Effects
Hershey's shares fell by 1.7% amid concerns that an intensifying El Niño could increase cocoa prices and pressure the company's recently improved gross margins. Despite a strong prior quarter driven by price increases, meteorologists predict a high likelihood of a severe El Niño, historically linked to reduced cocoa production, posing a risk to Hershey's profitability. While Hershey has not adjusted its 2026 outlook based on El Niño, investors are advised to monitor weather conditions and cocoa prices closely.
Summit Asset Management LLC Buys Shares of 14,229 The TJX Companies, Inc. $TJX
Summit Asset Management LLC recently acquired 14,229 shares of The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX) valued at approximately $2.16 million, marking a new position for the firm. This comes as hedge funds and institutional investors collectively own a significant 91.09% of the company's stock. Analysts generally maintain a "Buy" rating for TJX, with a consensus target price of $177.94, following strong quarterly results that surpassed expectations.
Peachtree Investment Partners LLC Purchases Shares of 51,379 The TJX Companies, Inc. $TJX
Peachtree Investment Partners LLC has acquired 51,379 shares of The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX) valued at approximately $7.8 million, making it 2.5% of their portfolio. TJX recently surpassed quarterly earnings and revenue expectations, maintaining a "Buy" rating from analysts with a $177.94 target price, despite some insider stock sales. The company also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.48 per share.
Exclusive | Costco Sells Vacations, Gas and, Soon, Medicare Plans
Costco is expanding into the healthcare market by launching Costco-branded Medicare plans in partnership with SCAN Group. Initially, these plans will be available in a limited rollout across two states for Medicare Advantage and a third state for Medicare supplements. This move aims to increase sales and enhance the value of Costco memberships by tapping into the multi-billion dollar Medicare business.
