Walmart Q3 EPS Beats Estimates; Kingstone Boosts Stake 397,265%
Walmart’s third-quarter EPS of $0.62 beat the $0.60 consensus on $179.5 billion revenue, up 5.8% year-over-year, and it guided FY 2026 EPS to $2.58–2.63. Kingstone Capital Partners increased its stake 397,265% to 104.5 million shares ($10.5 billion) and Davis Capital acquired 21,786 shares valued at $2.245 million.
1. Davis Capital Management Enters Stake in Walmart
In the third quarter, Davis Capital Management acquired 21,786 shares of Walmart, representing a new position valued at roughly $2.245 million. This investment now accounts for 1.6% of the firm’s total portfolio, making Walmart its 14th largest holding based on the latest SEC filing. The move underscores the firm’s confidence in Walmart’s ability to deliver stable returns amid ongoing retail competition.
2. Institutional Giants Adjust Exposure
Several heavyweights have significantly altered their Walmart positions in recent quarters. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas expanded its stake by over 397,000%, adding 104.49 million shares to reach a total holding worth approximately $10.5 billion. Norges Bank initiated a new position valued at $5.37 billion, while Laurel Wealth Advisors increased its exposure by nearly 9,650%, buying 11.37 million shares for a $1.12 billion allocation. Vanguard Group further bolstered its stake by 1.4%, bringing its total to 431.8 million shares worth $42.2 billion, and Amundi augmented its position by 23.5%, adding 3.71 million shares for a $1.90 billion investment.
3. Insider Sales Signal Caution
Two executive vice presidents reduced their holdings in the past quarter. Kathryn J. Mclay sold 4,000 shares for proceeds of $406,520, trimming her position by 0.38% to 1.04 million shares. John R. Furner disposed of 13,125 shares, generating $1.41 million and decreasing his stake by 1.45% to 892,940 shares. Over the last 90 days, insiders have offloaded 125,628 shares valued at $13.69 million, leaving company executives with just 0.10% ownership of outstanding stock.
4. Analysts Maintain Bullish Stance
Walmart continues to attract positive attention from the research community. Thirty-two analysts rate the stock as a buy, with a consensus target price of $120.69. Evercore ISI and Cowen both affirm outperform or buy ratings, while Piper Sandler has raised its target to $123.00. Wolfe Research, a recent new coverage entrant, set its objective at $129.00. Robert W. Baird lifted its target to $121.00. The prevailing sentiment reflects expectations that Walmart’s diversified retail model and investment in e-commerce will sustain growth into fiscal 2026.