11 Best Performing Dow Stocks So Far in 2025

2. Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT)

Year-to-date return as of February 14: 15.60%

One of the Best Performing Stocks, Walmart Inc.’s (NYSE:WMT) unparalleled scale in comparison to its physical retail competitors enables the company to remarkably adjust to a changing retail environment. Walmart has the advantage of being close to the great majority of US consumers due to its large physical footprint and established position in the communities it serves. For more than 30 years, the firm has maintained its position as the leading retailer in the country because of its unique promise of a large selection of goods at competitive rates. It is worth noting that the stock gained more than 83% over the past year.

For the third quarter of 2024, stronger gross margins and growth in membership income drove a $0.5 billion, or 8.2%, increase in consolidated operating income, which expanded by 9.8% on a constant currency basis. Media outlets reported in February that Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT) had paid $34 million to acquire Monroeville Mall, located about 12 miles east of Pittsburgh. The company stated that it was selling a Game Day meal package that serves eight people for roughly $8 per person that same month. The display contains 13 popular snack items, including wings, chips, dips, and drinks, to appeal to both casual watchers and die-hard sports enthusiasts.

As part of a Q4 of 2024 earnings preview, Barclays increased its price objective for Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT) from $98 to $108 on February 14 and maintained an Overweight rating on the shares. The firm anticipates positive mid-single-digit comps with potential upside from digital growth. In a research note, the analyst informs investors that Walmart is poised for growth in fiscal 2026 since the business is probably going to provide a cautious starting point for guidance.