Kroger Shares Jump 6.8% Premarket on Greg Foran CEO Appointment and FY25 Guidance
The Kroger Co. appointed former Walmart U.S. boss Greg Foran as CEO, sending shares up 6.8% in premarket trade as investors bet on his track record including a Walmart turnaround and digital overhaul at Air New Zealand. The company reaffirmed FY25 adjusted EPS guidance of $4.75–$4.80 and noted a premium 59.7x P/E multiple.
1. CEO Appointment and Leadership Transition
Kroger named Greg Foran—formerly head of Walmart U.S. and CEO of Air New Zealand—as its new chief executive, replacing interim CEO Ron Sargent. Foran brings over 40 years of experience leading large retail operations, digital transformations and pandemic-era turnarounds.
2. Market Reaction and Valuation Metrics
Shares surged 6.8% in premarket trading, lifting the stock 12.9% above its 20-day simple moving average and 10.1% above its 100-day average. The stock trades at a premium 59.7x P/E, with a neutral 68 RSI and a bullish MACD signal.
3. FY25 Guidance and Upcoming Earnings
The board reiterated its FY25 adjusted EPS outlook of $4.75–$4.80 per share, close to the $4.80 consensus estimate, ahead of its March 5, 2026 earnings call. Investors will watch for any strategic updates or guidance revisions introduced by the incoming CEO.