BUZZ - Deutsche Bank upgrades Walmart rating to "Buy", stock price rises accordingly

October 15 - **Retail giant Walmart (WMT.O) shares rose about 3%, closing at $119.30

** Deutsche Bank upgraded Walmart's rating from "hold" to "buy," stating that in the current inflationary environment, as consumers seek higher cost-effectiveness, the retailer is in a favorable position and is expected to expand its market share; target price set at $136

**The brokerage stated that compared to three months ago, consumer trends have improved: since July, spending among low-income groups has stabilized, while spending among high-income groups remains strong

** It is expected that as the growth rate of high-margin businesses continues to outpace core retail operations and the benefits of automation increasingly reflect in performance, profit margins will improve

** The brokerage stated the company “remains confident” and added that, compared to three months ago, consumer spending trends “remain stable and are improving”

** Out of 44 brokerages, 40 have given the stock a "buy" or higher rating, while 4 have rated it "hold"; the median target price is $130 — LSEG data

** As of the previous trading session's close, the stock had gained about 4% year-to-date

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