Walmart says U.S. consumers are under pressure from rising costs
Walmart has reported a revenue increase of 7.3% in the first quarter, indicating some resilience in consumer spending despite rising costs. However, the company also noted that higher fuel prices are impacting its profits and consumer wallets. As inflation rises, particularly in fuel and essential goods, many consumers are feeling financial pressure, especially those in lower-income brackets.
- ▪Walmart's revenue rose to $177.8 billion in the first quarter, with same-store U.S. sales growing 4.1%.
- ▪Higher-income households are driving consumer spending, while lower-income consumers struggle with rising costs.
- ▪Inflation reached 3.8% in April, the highest in nearly three years, exacerbated by the ongoing Iran war.
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ConsumerWalmart says U.S. consumers are under pressure from rising costsThe nation’s largest private employer reported positive quarterly results, but higher fuel prices have taken a bite out of its profits.A Walmart store in Hollywood, Fla, in 2025. Joe Raedle / Getty ImagesShareAdd NBC News to GoogleMay 21, 2026, 7:44 AM EDTBy Kayla SteinbergU.S. consumers are struggling with rising costs — and many are heading to Walmart.Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.The big-box retailer reported Thursday that its revenue rose 7.3% to $177.8 billion in the first quarter, and same-store U.S. sales grew 4.1%, thanks in part to growth from eCommerce and revenue from membership fees.
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