Target (NYSE: $TGT) soared on Wednesday after a bout of good news that sent investors scrambling to add it to their portfolio. The company crushed estimates in its earnings report and raised guidance.
Target Beats Estimates In Q2 Earnings
For the second quarter, Target reported revenue of $25.45 billion, beating forecasts of $25.21 billion. The giant retailer reported an EPS of $2.57, beating estimates of $2.18, and up 43% YoY.
Its reported revenue increased 2.7% year over year, while net income increased 36.6% year over year to $1.6 billion.
Comparable sales rose 2% YoY, above estimates of 1.1%, for a comparable store sales increase of 0.7% and comparable digital sales growth of 8.7%. The company attributed the growth in comparable sales to a 3% increase in traffic YoY.
Other Financial Highlights
Target reported a 2 million increase in membership for its Target Circle program in the second quarter. The company reported it has opened 10 new stores in 2024, and over 60 projects are underway. Additionally, it has opened 3 new supply chain facilities in 2024.
The company’s operating income margin for the second quarter was 6.4% compared to 4.8% in 2023, while the gross margin rate rose to 28.9% compared to 27% the previous year.
Target’s Upbeat Guidance
Target expects comparable sales to rise 0% to 2%, while GAAP adjusted EPS is expected to be $2.10 to $2.40 in the third quarter. For the full year, comparable sales are expected to rise 0% to 2%, beating forecasts of a 0.1% increase at the midpoint.
Target raised its full-year EPS outlook to $9 to $9.70 from the previous outlook of $8.60 to $9.60, beating estimates of $9.23 at the midpoint.
Target (TGT) Gaps On Positive Earnings Report
Following the upbeat guidance and bout of good news in the earnings report, Target closed trading on Wednesday 11.20% higher at $159.25 per share. The stock is valued above its 50 and 200 DMA of $145.46 and $148.24, respectively. The stock is up 11.20% year to date, and 27.46% in the past 12 months.
Its valuation fairs well compared to rivals. For instance, it has a forward P/E of 17.12 compared to rival Walmart’s valuation of 30.96. Analysts remain cautiously optimistic of TGT, giving it a moderate buy rating. They forecast a wide range for the stock, with a high of $209 and a low of $116. Their average forecast of $173.58 is a 9% upside based on the last closing price.
Is Target A Buy?
In the earnings report, Target forecast a slowdown in sales. It expects consumers to continue facing macroeconomic pressure in the short term. However, it has still managed to post growth, which points to its resilient business model.
In the long term, Target is likely to continue growing, albeit at a slower rate. Consequently, Target could potentially be a great stock to add to your portfolio as part of a long-term strategy.
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