Independent Advisor Alliance reduced its stake in Costco Wholesale Corporation by 2.1% during the third quarter, disposing of 686 shares to end the period with 32,229 shares. As of the filing date, Costco represented approximately 0.8% of the fund’s portfolio, ranking as its 20th largest holding. The remaining position was valued at $29.83 million at quarter end, reflecting the firm’s confidence in the retailer’s long-term membership-driven model despite the modest reduction.

Several other institutions also modified their Costco holdings in the latest reporting periods. Peterson Wealth Services increased its position by 0.5%, adding 72 shares to hold 13,616 shares valued at $13.48 million. Fishman Jay A Ltd. MI boosted its stake by 3.5%, acquiring 575 additional shares to reach 16,888 shares worth $16.72 million. Silver Oak Securities incorporated 1,248 more shares, a 49.3% jump to 3,780 shares valued at $3.50 million, while Permanent Capital Management LP initiated a new $874,000 position. Wealthspire Advisors LLC added 312 shares (2.0%) to hold 15,799 shares worth $15.64 million. Institutional ownership now accounts for 68.48% of total shares.

In its most recent quarter, Costco reported net sales of $67.31 billion, an 8.3% year-over-year increase, and delivered earnings per share of $4.34, exceeding consensus forecasts by $0.07. Return on equity stood at 29.35% and net margin at 2.96%, underscoring efficient cost management and strong membership fee contributions. Analysts project full-year earnings per share of $18.03, supported by resilient same-store sales growth and international expansion of warehouse clubs.

Costco declared a quarterly dividend of $1.30 per share, payable to shareholders of record on January 30 and disbursed on February 13. This payout represents an annualized dividend of $5.20 and a dividend-to-earnings ratio of 27.85%. The consistent increase in dividend distributions reflects the company’s robust free cash flow generation and commitment to returning capital to long-term shareholders.