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NASDAQ:COST
Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST)
Financials 
Technical Analysis 
Jun 16, 2026, 12:00 amThis summary was created by AI, based on 51 opinions in the last 12 months.
Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) is widely recognized as a strong player in the retail sector, known for its business model that emphasizes low prices and a loyal customer base through its membership system. Despite its remarkable growth trajectory, with double-digit rates expected to continue, many analysts express concerns regarding its high valuation, often reported at over 50x price-to-earnings (PE) ratio. While some experts advocate for holding the stock long-term, citing its outstanding customer satisfaction and potential for expansion, others caution against its elevated price, suggesting that a pullback might present better buying opportunities. The company exhibits resilience, continuing to grow its store count and maintaining strong traffic, but uncertainty around market conditions and valuation persists among analysts, leading to a mixed perspective on immediate investment strategies.
A buy-and-hold forever. Omnichannel retailer, as it's increasingly seeing acceleration in e-commerce and delivery channels.
Brian MaddenHe wrote an in-the-money call at $985. It was trading over $1,000 yesterday down to $950 today. He covered half the position and just closed it out at $5. He netted a $22 profit. Earnings were good, as expected. You can add to it at these levels, despite the high PE.
Kevin Simpson
Both great companies, but both very expensive. COST is over 50x PE, and WMT's in the 40s. Fairly low-margin model. Reliant on the consumer, and everyone's affected when that consumer is struggling.
WMT reported today. Earnings were OK, but projections on future quarters were tough. High fuel prices were highlighted.
No valuation concerns, as it's been expensive every day he's looked at it over 30 years. Compounded shareholder total return of 17.5% since its IPO. Third-largest retailer in the world. Procurement clout and supply-chain efficiencies produce gross margins of 11%. Still expanding store count. Periodically increases membership fees. Superior same-store sales performance driven by traffic and basket size.
Lots of ways to win. Yield is 0.59%.
Brian MaddenThe only consumer staples he owns are COST and KO, which are still growing.
Barry Schwartz
A good name to hold in consumer staples when people panic about market volatility, recession, or the like. Defensive plus steady growth. Runup since January, now trending sideways. Business model is what makes it stand out.
Sees ~11-12% upside from here. Of course, that could change. Ranks 10/10 for her.
Brianne Gardner
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Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) Frequently Asked Questions
What is Costco Wholesale Corporation stock symbol?
Costco Wholesale Corporation is a American stock, trading under the symbol COST (previously COST-Q on Stockchase) on the NASDAQ (COST). It is usually referred to as NASDAQ:COST or COST
Is Costco Wholesale Corporation a buy or a sell?
In the last year, 44 stock analysts issued a Buy, Sell, or Hold rating on COST (previously COST-Q on Stockchase). 31 analysts recommended to BUY and 8 analysts recommended to SELL the stock. The latest stock analyst rating is BUY. Read the latest stock experts' ratings for Costco Wholesale Corporation.
Is Costco Wholesale Corporation a good investment or a top pick?
Costco Wholesale Corporation was recommended as a Top Pick by Jason Snipe, CIO, Odyssey Capital Advisors on 2026-02-18. Read the latest stock experts ratings for Costco Wholesale Corporation.
Why is Costco Wholesale Corporation stock dropping?
Earnings reports or recent company news can cause the stock price to drop. Read stock experts' recommendations for Costco Wholesale Corporation.
Is Costco Wholesale Corporation worth watching?
Costco Wholesale Corporation is followed by 653 investors on Stockchase and is a trending stock that is worth watching.
What is Costco Wholesale Corporation stock price?
On 2026-06-16, Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST) stock closed at a price of $986.68.
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High valuation but is growing double digits, which it should do so for years. They have the lowest prices of products compared to peers. A lot of room to expand location. A great business model. He will hold this forever.