Walmart (WMT) Expands Automation Deal, Is The Stock Already Pricey?

Walmart (WMT) extended its automation push with a new commercial agreement with Symbotic that carries an initial commitment of about US$6b. The rollout targets 25 U.S. regional distribution centers and broader supply chain projects. These automation headlines are landing against a strong backdrop for Walmart, with the share price at US$121.25 and a roughly 13.5% 1 month share price return that has pushed year to date gains to about 7.5%. Momentum has been building rather than fading, supported by a 90 day share price return of about 9% and a 1 year total shareholder return near 19.6%. Recent news has ranged from expanded Better Care Services in health to fresh fixed income raises and new retail partnerships.