Yahoo Finance What’s in the Offing for Target Stock?
Target Shone during the Holidays—Why Didn't Its Stock? (Continued from Prior Part) ## TGT is likely to sustain its momentum in 2019 Target Corporation (TGT) reported strong financials in the first three quarters of 2018, and we expect it to end 2018 on a strong note and post stellar comps and EPS growth. Target is also expected to sustain the growth momentum in its sales and earnings in 2019 led by the expansion of its digital offerings. However, its growth rate is expected to slow as it faces tough YoY (year-over-year) comps. Target’s top line is expected to increase led by growth in its comps. The company’s expansion of its fulfillment options, including delivery through Shipt, Drive Up, and Order Pickup, is expected to drive its traffic. Meanwhile, store remodelings and the opening of new stores are likely to support its comps growth, as these stores generate higher sales and productivity. Target’s focus on merchandising and exclusive product launches should also drive its sales. Target managed to stabilize its bottom line in the first three quarters of 2018. A considerable fall in its effective tax rate, lower interest expenses, and share repurchases supported Target’s bottom line. We expect Target’s bottom line to continue to increase in 2019 driven by improved comps and an anticipated fall in its per-unit digital fulfillment costs. Wall Street expects Target’s top line to increase 3.1% in 2019. Meanwhile, its bottom line is expected to increase 4%. ## Stock performance in 2019 Retail stocks had wiped out most of their gains as of the end of 2018. However, these retailers started 2019 on a positive note. Target stock is up 3.3% so far this year. Meanwhile, Costco (COST), Kroger (KR), and Walmart (WMT) stocks have risen 3.4%, 3.6%, and 1.9%, respectively. Continue to Next Part Browse this series on Market Realist: * Part 1 - Target Shone during the Holidays—Why Didn’t Its Stock? * Part 3 - Why Target’s Digital Sales Could Grow at a Healthy Rate * Part 4 - What’s the Expected Upside in Target Stock?
