Walmart: eCommerce And Sales On The Rise Under New CEO

Walmart has announced strong fourth-quarter and full-year results, making the first financial announcement under new CEO John Furner, showing growth across its US, international and Sam's Club operations.

For the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2026, the company reported revenue of US$190.7bn, up 5.6% from the previous year. Operating income rose faster at 10.8%, reflecting better efficiency and strong sales.

Global eCommerce sales jumped 24%, led by strong fulfilled pickup, delivery and marketplace growth.

Commenting on the results, John said: "The pace of change in retail is accelerating. It's exciting. And our financial results show that we're not only embracing this change, we're leading it.

"For customers and members, the future is fast, convenient and personalised."

In a video posted on LinkedIn, Chief Financial Officer at Walmart John David Rainey said: " We finished the year strong, and that's because of you, our 2.1 million associated around the world.

"Our results are a reflection of our strong team and business model. we're executing well and we've navigated a dynamic environment to serve customers and members and grow our business.

"This year, sales exceeded US$700bn for the first time, reflecting US$35bn of growth to the top line.

Success across the company

Walmart's advertising business grew 37%, including collaborations with VIZIO, while Walmart US comp sales increased 4.6%, supported by strong customer traffic and Walmart's omni-channel strategy.

Membership fee revenue rose 15.1% globally, highlighting growing customer engagement.

Profitability improved modestly, with gross margin up slightly, aided by better inventory management and controlled expenses. Adjusted earnings per share were US$0.74, excluding a US$0.21 loss on equity and other investments.

Walmart also announced a new US$30bn share buyback programme, signalling confidence in its business.

Segment performance remained strong across all areas. Walmart US eCommerce sales grew 27%, with expedited store-fulfilled delivery channels increasing over 50%.

Operating income grew 6.6%, outpacing overall sales. Walmart International saw net sales rise 11.5%, with strong contributions from China, Walmex and Flipkart, and eCommerce up 17%.

Sam's Club US net sales increased 2.9%, with eCommerce driving about 3.8% of comp sales and membership feed up 6.1%.

In a post on LinkedIn, John Furner shared: "Associates, thank you for serving our customers and members with speed and excellence around the world."

"Our strong momentum is because of you," he added. "I'm grateful for this team, and excited to build the future of retail together."

Record breaking market value

These financial results come just a couple of weeks after Walmart became the first traditional retailer to hit a US$1tn market valuation, down to the firm's share price soaring in recent months.

This places the retailer among the likes of tech giants NVIDIA, Microsoft and Alphabet.

Walmart's growth throughout the year was particularly driven by a combination of rapid e-commerce growth, aggressive AI adoption and a strategy that appeals to both budget-conscious and higher-income shoppers.

Under the leadership of now former CEO Doug McMillion, who stepped down at the end of January, the firm successfully transformed into a hybrid omnichannel powerhouse, aided by services like curbside pickup and fast home delivery.

Guidance showing strong belief

Looking ahead, the company has issued for fiscal year 2027 with net sales expected to grow 3.5% to 4.5% and adjusted operating income to grow 6% to 8%, both in constant currency. 

Adjusted EPS is expected to be US$2.75 to US$2.85.

John David Rainey added: "Walmart is entering a new chapter and we're doing so from a position of strength. We have the right strategy in place to win. More than that, we have the right team."