Walmart (WMT) has shown strong performance during the 2024 holiday season, with a 4% year-over-year revenue increase and a 4.6% spike in U.S. comparable sales, driven by higher consumer transactions and increased spending from upper-income shoppers. The average spending per purchase rose by 1.8%, and U.S. operating income grew by 7.4%. Despite this, Walmart forecasts a challenging 2025, predicting net sales growth of only 3% to 4% and operating income growth of 3.5% to 5.5%, citing economic uncertainties. Walmart CFO John Rainey noted the unstable macroeconomic environment and potential impacts from tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, which could lead to price increases and affect low-income customers. Additionally, Walmart faces a boycott threat from consumers protesting corporate DEI policies, planned for February 28. — news from TheStreet