Walmart Stock Price, News & Analysis

Straight Talk Home Internet has been launched, offering a no-contract, prepaid fixed wireless internet service powered by Verizon's 5G and 4G LTE networks. Available exclusively at Walmart, it costs $45 per month for unlimited data at speeds up to 100 Mbps. The self-setup router is priced at $99. Consumers in the FCC's Affordable Connectivity Program can receive additional discounts. This initiative aims to provide accessible, reliable internet to value-conscious consumers, enhancing digital accessibility.

Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) will host a discussion on its responsible sourcing strategy on Thursday, Oct. 27 at 9 a.m. CDT. The event features Kristen Albertson, VP of Global Responsible Sourcing, and Karrie Denniston, Senior Director at Walmart.org. They will address Walmart's investments in responsible sourcing and collaboration to enhance supply chains and mitigate systemic risks. Participants can access the live webcast through the company's official site. A transcript will be available post-event.

Roku, Inc. (NASDAQ: ROKU) and Walmart (NYSE: WMT) have launched a new suite of affordable smart home products, available in nearly 3,500 Walmart stores starting October 17. This product line includes security cameras, video doorbells, smart lighting, and other devices designed to enhance the smart home experience. Roku aims to integrate these devices with its TV platform, allowing users to access functionality such as live camera feeds while streaming. The smart home products feature advanced security capabilities and are designed for easy consumer connectivity.

Walmart has launched the Walmart Healthcare Research Institute (WHRI) to enhance participation in clinical studies, particularly among underrepresented communities. The initiative aims to address healthcare disparities by focusing on chronic condition treatments for older adults, rural residents, women, and minorities. With a mission to make healthcare research more accessible, Walmart partners with various clinical research organizations and has reported a referral rate three times higher than the industry average. This aligns with Walmart's commitment to affordable healthcare and patient engagement.

Alert Innovation, a leader in e-grocery fulfillment automation, has reached a definitive agreement to be acquired by Walmart (NYSE: WMT). The partnership began in 2016, focusing on technology customization for Walmart's market fulfillment centers (MFCs) and piloting the Alphabot System in 2019. This acquisition aims to enhance Walmart's automation capabilities and improve customer service. Alert Innovation will continue operating under its brand in the Boston area, leveraging its expertise to support Walmart's MFC technology expansion.

Sam's Club has introduced its Photo and Customization Services, enhancing member offerings with professional photography partnerships and customizable apparel. Powered by Amaze Software, the platform features advanced photo editing tools enabling users to edit up to 50 images in minutes. The partnership with Shoott allows local photography bookings in 60 US cities, with a promotional discount for members. The service aims to revolutionize retail customization, particularly with holiday-themed apparel, positioning Sam's Club as a leader in the warehouse industry.

Walmart has officially opened its first Next Generation fulfillment center in Joliet, Illinois, a 1.1M square-foot facility aimed at enhancing shipping speed across Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. This state-of-the-art center will utilize advanced technology, combining people, robotics, and machine learning, to streamline operations significantly. Walmart plans to hire over 1,000 associates by year-end and aims to fulfill online orders faster, catering to increased customer expectations ahead of the holiday season. The company also emphasizes its ongoing commitment to community investment.

Walmart has partnered with Kindbody to launch a Center of Excellence for family-building benefits, enhancing healthcare access for associates. The initiative includes a state-of-the-art clinic in Rogers, Arkansas, set to open later this year, offering comprehensive fertility services such as IVF and adoption support. Associates enrolled in a self-insured medical plan will benefit from these services. Walmart's fertility-related benefits include up to $20,000 for surrogacy and adoption expenses and enhanced parental leave policies, reinforcing its commitment to employee welfare.