Walmart Soars, Target Tumbles: A Tale of Two CEOs

As of February 18, 2026, Walmart and Target have initiated a new chapter with new CEOs. John Furner took the helm at Walmart, while Michael Fiddelke assumed leadership at Target. Both companies navigate an economic landscape marked by cautious consumer spending, influenced by persistent inflation and tariffs affecting essential goods and discretionary purchases.

Despite these shared economic headwinds, the retailers' paths forward appear markedly different. Walmart's stock performance has been exceptional, climbing approximately 163% over the last five years and reaching a new 52-week high recently. This success is mirrored in its sales results, with Walmart attracting a broad customer base and expanding its online sales and advertising businesses.

In contrast, Target's stock has experienced a significant downturn, falling about 40% over the past five years and dropping 9% in the last year. The company is grappling with decelerating sales and decreased foot traffic. Walmart anticipates robust net sales growth for the full year, projecting an increase between 4.8% and 5.1%. Target, however, is projected to end the full year with declining sales.

Analysts suggest that while Walmart's new CEO inherits a fundamentally sound and growing business, his primary role is to maintain this momentum. Target's CEO, however, faces the challenge of revitalizing the brand and future vision after years of stagnant sales, aiming to inject excitement and drive significant business transformation.