Walmart Earnings Face Scrutiny Amid Weaker US Sales

Walmart's upcoming earnings report is facing scrutiny due to concerns about weaker U.S. sales and a cautious retail outlook. Oppenheimer has downgraded Walmart's stock, citing slower growth in General Merchandise and Health & Wellness.

The company's results will be compared to those of Target and Home Depot, which reported earlier this week. Target's earnings showed a mixed picture, with some positive signs but also concerns about consumer discretionary spending.

Home Depot's report highlighted home improvement demand, which is being affected by high borrowing costs. Meanwhile, upcoming Federal Reserve minutes and economic data on employment and inflation will influence expectations for future interest rate moves.