Walmart reached a $1 trillion market capitalization on Tuesday when its shares closed nearly 3% higher at $127.71, resulting in a $1.02 trillion valuation for the largest U.S. retailer and grocer. The gain stemmed from expansion in digital businesses and acquisition of new customers.
The company’s stock rose more than 28% over the past year and more than 14% so far in 2026. These increases exceeded the S&P 500’s gains of roughly 15% over the past year and 1% so far in 2026. Walmart entered this valuation milestone after listing on the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 the previous month, positioning it among companies dominated by technology firms.
Walmart accelerated profit growth ahead of sales growth by expanding its third-party marketplace and advertising businesses. These segments generate higher margins compared to traditional brick-and-mortar operations. The retailer pursued these strategies to enhance profitability in recent years.
Walmart’s online selling platform expanded in a pattern similar to rival Amazon. E-commerce sales jumped 27% in the fiscal 2026 third quarter reported in November. Advertising revenue in that quarter grew 53%, contributing to a 5.8% increase in overall revenue.
The market cap achievement occurred days into the tenure of new Walmart CEO John Furner, who assumed the role on Sunday. He succeeded longtime Chief Executive Doug McMillon. Prior to this position, Furner served as CEO of Walmart’s U.S. business.
In that U.S. role, Furner directed key initiatives that propelled recent growth. Curbside pickup services expanded access for customers. Improvements to private-label brands enhanced product offerings. These efforts attracted higher-income shoppers whose grocery budgets faced pressure from elevated inflation.
Walmart projects sales growth of 4.8% to 5.1% for the full fiscal 2026 year. The company anticipates releasing its fiscal fourth-quarter earnings later this month. A correction confirms the $1 trillion market cap threshold was crossed on Tuesday, not the day stated in an earlier version.
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