Walmart Inc. - WMT STOCK NEWS

Walmart and Sam's Club are committing up to $1 million in cash and product donations to aid recovery efforts in Texas, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Mississippi, following severe storms and power outages. The funds will support Feeding Texas and local food banks that are struggling to meet the needs of those affected. Since FY2017, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation have donated over $58 million for disaster relief. The company is actively tracking winter weather and has deployed emergency teams to assist associates and ensure product availability in stores.

The Board of Directors of Walmart has approved an annual cash dividend of $2.20 per share for fiscal year 2022, marking a 2% increase from the previous year's $2.16. This dividend will be paid in four quarterly installments of $0.55 each. Key record and payable dates include: March 19 (payable April 5), May 7 (payable June 1), August 13 (payable September 7), and December 10 (payable January 3, 2022). Walmart continues to emphasize its commitment to returning cash to shareholders, having increased its annual dividend for 48 consecutive years.

Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) reported strong Q4 performance with U.S. comp sales up 8.6% and eCommerce sales soaring 69%. Despite a GAAP EPS loss of ($0.74) due to a $1.1 billion COVID-related expense and property tax relief repayment, adjusted EPS stood at $1.39. The company plans to invest nearly $14 billion in FY22 for supply chain enhancements and automation. Walmart's dividend was raised for the 48th consecutive year, alongside a new $20 billion share repurchase program, though net sales and EPS are expected to decline due to divestitures.

Walmart and Sam's Club pharmacies will start administering COVID-19 vaccines on February 12, 2021, as part of the U.S. Federal Retail Pharmacy Program. Over 1,000 locations in 22 states are involved, focusing on underserved communities. Walmart is also assisting with vaccinations in 11 additional states and Puerto Rico. With 150 million customers weekly, the pharmacies aim to enhance vaccine access. Walmart will act as the sole pharmacy partner in certain states. Vaccine supply will vary, and appointments can be scheduled online. Walmart is committed to expanding vaccination accessibility.

The global infant nutrition market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7%, reaching $61.6 billion by 2026. This growth is driven by a rising population of working mothers seeking convenient nutrition options. Companies like Else Nutrition (TSXV:BABY), Kraft Heinz Co (NASDAQ:KHC), Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT), Danone (OTCQX:DANOY), and Walmart (NYSE:WMT) are capitalizing on this trend. Notably, Else Nutrition has launched a plant-based formula and expanded its distribution in North America through major retailers.

Walmart and Sam's Club pharmacies will participate in the U.S. Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, administering COVID-19 vaccines starting next week in 22 states. Eligible customers can schedule appointments via Walmart's and Sam's Club's websites. Initial allocations are limited, affecting appointment availability. Walmart aims to enhance vaccine access, given its close proximity to 90% of the U.S. population. The company partners with state and federal governments, emphasizing its role in ending the pandemic and supporting local communities.

Nationwide and Walmart have announced a partnership to streamline the process of filling pet prescription medications at Walmart's pharmacies nationwide. This initiative, named Nationwide Pet Rx Express, allows Nationwide pet insurance members to access affordable medications and process claims in-store, a first for the pet insurance industry. This program includes commonly prescribed medications for chronic conditions and preventive treatments, enhancing convenience for pet owners. The collaboration emphasizes cost-saving and efficient service for families with pets.

Walmart has rebranded its media business to Walmart Connect, emphasizing its ability to connect brands with over 150 million weekly customers. The platform aims to transform digital advertising through its vast omnichannel presence and first-party data. Walmart Connect will focus on three key areas: expanding digital offerings, introducing in-store media experiences, and enhancing offsite media capabilities through a partnership with The Trade Desk. These developments align with Walmart's strategy to diversify revenue streams and enhance customer experience.

Walmart is set to begin administering COVID-19 vaccines across Maryland, Texas, Delaware, Indiana, and the District of Columbia. With over 5,000 locations ready, the company has been preparing for this rollout since early 2020. Walmart's pharmacy staff has received extensive training to address vaccine hesitancy and ensure community education. The initiative aims to improve healthcare access in underserved areas. Positive feedback has already been reported from locations like South Carolina, highlighting community gratitude and eagerness for vaccination.