The TJX Companies, Inc. (TJX), Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (WMT), Target Corporation (TGT): Should You Be Swayed by Celebrity?

Meyrowitz was a new addition to Barron’s list of 30 Top CEOs in March. The Head Maxxinista herself presides over 3,000 stores in six countries. At a recent investor presentation the company spoke of its huge “global pencil,” as they call it, for buying merchandise from 15,000 vendors internationally and keeping inventory fresh and exciting.

The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX) has the highest trailing P/E at 19.18 and the lowest yield of 1.10% compared to its peers. However, its payout ratio is lower at 18%, compared to 33% and 32% at Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT) and Target, respectively. It has raised its dividend for 17 years with a 26% increase in March. The PEG is also the highest at 1.61.

Three different ways to shop

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT) attracts the lower-end consumer, but an e-commerce push with its WalMartLabs could generate some internet alpha. It’s the world’s biggest retailer but the stock has lost some mojo. Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT), with its higher quality merchandise and low PEG, still has upside (and celebrities seem to like it best, too). The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX) is just a solidly run company with madly loyal customers. As for me, I would rather load up a portfolio cart with Target and TJX.

AnnaLisa Kraft has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned.

The article Should You Be Swayed by Celebrity? originally appeared on Fool.com.

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