Walmart Inc. - WMT STOCK NEWS

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.

Sam's Club (WMT), Synchrony (SYF), and Mastercard (MA) have launched a new rewards program for Sam's Club Plus members that provides up to 5% back on eligible purchases. Members earn 3% back using their Sam's Club Mastercard in-store or online, plus an additional 2% from their Plus membership. Other benefits include 5% cash back on fuel, 3% on dining, and contact-free payment options. The program, effective January 27, 2021, aims to enhance value for members during evolving shopping habits, with rewards accessible digitally each February.

Walmart is prepared to facilitate a significant vaccine rollout, executing plans to offer vaccinations seven days a week at pharmacies and through community events. They aim to deliver 10-13 million doses monthly when supply allows. With over 5,000 pharmacies in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, Walmart focuses on underserved areas and collaborates with community organizations for vaccination events. Additionally, while encouraging associates to get vaccinated, Walmart does not mandate the vaccine nor provide incentives. The retailer remains committed to supporting public health efforts during the pandemic.

Walmart (NYSE:WMT) and Western Union (NYSE:WU) have announced a partnership to offer Western Union money transfer services at over 4,700 Walmart locations in the U.S. starting in spring 2021. This collaboration aims to provide customers with enhanced financial services, including both domestic and international money transfers, bill payments, and money orders. With this agreement, Walmart customers will benefit from Western Union's extensive global network, facilitating money transfers to more than 200 countries and territories, reinforcing Walmart's commitment to financial inclusion and customer convenience.

Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) will hold a virtual meeting with the Investment Community on February 18, 2021, starting at 7 a.m. CST. The meeting will cover the company's fourth quarter financial results for fiscal 2021 and strategic priorities, followed by a Q&A session. Financial results will be released at approximately 6 a.m. CST on the same day and will be available on Walmart's corporate website. In fiscal year 2020, Walmart reported a revenue of $524 billion, with over 265 million customers visiting its stores weekly.

Walmart has announced the creation of a new fintech startup in partnership with Ribbit Capital, aimed at providing innovative and affordable financial solutions. This venture will harness Walmart’s retail expertise and Ribbit’s fintech knowledge to enhance financial services for customers and associates. Majority-owned by Walmart, the new company will have a board including Walmart leadership and plans to expand through industry partnerships and acquisitions. Walmart will continue offering existing financial services while focusing on delivering tech-driven financial experiences.

The Walmart Foundation is granting Feeding America $12 million over two years to combat food insecurity affecting 1 in 6 Americans due to COVID-19. This funding aims to expand food assistance access through the Order Ahead app and enhance food distribution capacity among food banks. Since February, Walmart has donated 480 million pounds of food and over $55 million in grants to hunger-relief efforts. Additionally, local Walmart stores are actively partnering with non-profits to address the surge in hunger needs during the holiday season.

Walmart has announced over $700 million in additional cash bonuses for its U.S. associates, recognizing their contributions during the pandemic. This includes $319 million in quarterly bonuses paid on Nov. 25 and an estimated $388 million in a special cash bonus to be distributed on Dec. 24. Eligible associates, approximately 1.5 million, will receive $150 for part-time and $300 for full-time roles. This marks the fourth special bonus since the pandemic began, bringing total bonuses in 2020 to over $2.8 billion. Walmart is also extending its COVID-19 Emergency Leave policy through July 5, 2021.