Wal-Mart Tops Earnings Estimates as Sales Rise

Walmart's recent sales performance exceeded expectations, with a slight increase in same-store sales. Factors contributing to this include strong seasonal business, food deflation, and a lower tax rate. The company remains cautiously optimistic about the holiday season, with falling gasoline prices potentially boosting consumer spending. Walmart is focusing on a major Black Friday event and plans to hire additional staff, although fewer than some competitors. The company aims to maintain price leadership and ensure store operations run smoothly.

What was the unexpected result in Walmart's recent sales performance?

• A significant drop in sales

• A major increase in sales

• A slight increase in sales

• Sales remained unchanged

Which seasonal event contributed to Walmart's better-than-expected earnings?

• Christmas

• Thanksgiving

• Halloween

• Easter

How did food deflation impact Walmart's earnings?

• It had no impact

• It negatively affected earnings

• It positively affected earnings

• It caused earnings to remain stable

What external factor is expected to boost consumer spending during the holiday season?

• Increasing inflation

• Higher taxes

• Rising interest rates

• Falling gasoline prices

What is Walmart's strategy for staffing during the holiday season?

• Reducing staff numbers

• Hiring fewer people than Target

• Closing stores early

• Offering fewer hours to employees