Target (TGT) stock took a nosedive Wednesday after the discount retailer's first-quarter earnings came up short of expectations amid a tough consumer spending environment.
In the three months ended May 4, Target's sales decreased 3.2% year-over-year to $24.5 billion, driven by weak sales in its discretionary categories. Its earnings per share (EPS) declined 1% from the year prior to $2.03.
"Our first-quarter financial performance was in line with our expectations on both the top and bottom line, tracking the trajectory we outlined for this year and setting up a return to growth in the second quarter," Target CEO Brian Cornell said in a statement. "Our topline performance improved for the third consecutive quarter, with growth in our digital business led by strength in our same-day fulfillment services."
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
While the results met Target's guidance for the quarter, they were mixed when it came to analysts' expectations. According to Yahoo Finance, Wall Street was anticipating in-line sales of $24.5 billion and slightly higher earnings of $2.05 per share.
For the second quarter and full year, Target said it expects EPS in the range of $1.95 to $2.35 and $8.60 to $9.60, respectively. These estimates are in-line with Wall Street's estimates, which currently call for EPS of $2.19 and $9.43, respectively.
Cornell added that the company is pleased with the early results from the relaunch of Target Circle, which brought 1 million new customers to its platform in its first quarter.
Despite the reiterated full-year guidance and upbeat commentary from the company's CEO, it's worrying that "both foot traffic and same-store sales were measurably lower," said Brian Mulberry, client portfolio manager at Zacks Investment Management. "Also, when customers did visit stores they spent 1.9% less. Looking ahead, these consumer trends do not add up to a confident story when it comes to earnings consistency."
Is Target stock a buy, sell or hold?
Analysts are generally upbeat toward the consumer staples stock. According to S&P Global Market Intelligence, the consensus analyst target price for TGT stock is $184.30, representing implied upside of roughly 28% to current levels. Meanwhile, the consensus recommendation is Buy.
BofA Securities analyst BofA Securities analyst Robert Ohmes maintained a Buy rating on the blue chip stock after earnings.
"While near-term sales remain pressured, we believe TGT's focus on value positions it well for share gains going forward," Ohmes says. "Recently announced price investments, changes to the Target Circle 360 rewards program, and several new Owned Brand launches focused on value and entry-level price points should support an improving value perception."
Related Content
-
Should You Change Your Estate Plan Before the Election?You might need to modify your estate plan before the election — or at least before a new administration.
-
When Should Retirees Consider a Donor-Advised Fund?Charitable giving in retirement isn't right for everybody. But in certain situations, a tax-efficient donor-advised fund (DAF) may be well worth considering.
-
When Should Retirees Consider a Donor-Advised Fund?
Charitable giving in retirement isn't right for everybody. But in certain situations, a tax-efficient donor-advised fund (DAF) may be well worth considering.
-
Four Things to Know About Your Collectibles and Homeowners InsuranceIf you're crazy about collectibles, and your hoard is growing in value, you may need to consider specialized insurance to protect your investment.
-
Stock Market Today: Stocks Waver on Resilient Employment DataA private reading on payrolls had markets rethinking rate-cut bets just days ahead of the monthly jobs report.
-
Lamb Weston Stock Gains After Earnings Beat, Layoff NewsLamb Weston stock is higher after the french fry maker reported earnings and unveiled a restructuring plan that includes job cuts. Here's what you need to know.
-
Humana Stock Sinks on Weak Medicare Star Ratings: What to KnowHumana stock is spiraling Wednesday after the CMS provided preliminary Star Ratings data for the insurer's 2025 Medicare Advantage plans.
-
Is Nike Stock Still a Buy After Earnings? Here's What Wall Street SaysNike stock is tumbling Wednesday after the retailer reported mixed earnings results and withdrew its full-year guidance.
-
This Trust Strategy Can Reduce Your Taxes Big-TimeUpstream basis planning can help younger wealthy people pay less taxes on highly appreciated assets if they appoint an aging relative as a trust beneficiary.
-
Three Major Estate Plan Mistakes to AvoidA complete and up-to-date estate plan can help ease your loved ones' worries and make things easier for them after you pass.
