Wal-Mart's 4Q profit rises 4%

Associated Press

Reader feedback
More stocks coverage
Latest AP headlines

Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world’s largest retailer, said Tuesday its renewed focus on low prices paid off with a 4 percent rise in profit for its fourth quarter as holiday shoppers bought discounted groceries and home electronics as well as health and wellness products.

FILE/AP

International growth also helped boost profit and sales. Stores in 13 countries outside the U.S. accounted for about 25 percent of total company sales in the quarter, up from 23 percent a year earlier.

Wal-Mart said net income in the quarter ended Jan. 31 rose to $4.096 billion, or $1.02 per share, compared to $3.94 billion, or 95 cents a share, a year earlier.

Net sales grew 8.3 percent to $106.27 billion, helped by 18.8 percent international growth and 5.0 percent growth at U.S. Wal-Mart stores. Overall revenue including membership fees rose to $107.43 billion from $99.078 billion a year earlier.

Full story

MORE HEADLINES Dallas-based Holly sees sales, profit rise 10:50 AM CT Oil, gas prices surge 10:26 AM CT Idearc chairman adds CEO title Fossil's 4Q earnings soar 51% Blu-ray wins out in DVD format war See all of today's headlines

TOMORROW Millennials. Can’t live with 'em. Can't live without 'em. That’s what many employers say about the youngest generation in the workplace, says columnist Cheryl Hall. Read how some companies are adapting in tomorrow's Business section.