Can Walmart's New CEO Send the Massive Retailer's Stock Soaring in 2026 (and Beyond?)
The Motley Fool
by newsfeedback@fool.com (Will Healy)February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Walmart has welcomed John Furner as its new CEO, a move that has sparked curiosity among investors about whether he can maintain or exceed the impressive returns achieved under his predecessor, Doug McMillon. McMillon’s leadership saw Walmart’s stock appreciation and dividends combine for over 500% growth during his tenure, outperforming even the S&P 500. As Furner takes the reins, questions arise about how he will build on this legacy and drive future success.
Doug McMillon’s impact on Walmart was significant. He transformed the retail giant into a more tech-savvy and omnichannel company, adapting to shifting consumer behaviors and the rise of e-commerce. His leadership during a challenging retail landscape not only solidified Walmart’s position as a dominant player but also delivered strong returns for shareholders. This success sets a high bar for Furner, who must now navigate the complexities of leading one of the world’s largest retailers.
Investors are closely watching whether Furner can continue or surpass McMillon’s achievements. The transition comes at a time when Walmart faces both opportunities and challenges. While the company is well-positioned in key areas like e-commerce growth and supply chain efficiency, it must also address issues such as rising costs and competition from other retailers. Furner’s ability to leverage technology, improve sustainability efforts, and enhance customer experiences will be critical factors in determining Walmart’s future stock performance.
The significance of this leadership change lies in its potential impact on investor confidence and the broader retail sector. If Furner can successfully steer Walmart toward continued growth and innovation, it could not only boost the
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Originally published on The Motley Fool on 2/25/2026