Goldman Sachs
May 21, 2026
Target Corp Top-Line Trends Inflected to Positive in 1Q
Single Stock ReportEquitiesConsumer Discretionary
Target's 1Q results showed a surprise return to positive same-store sales growth, prompting a FY26 guidance raise. However, Goldman Sachs maintains a Neutral rating due to concerns regarding difficult 2Q comparisons and long-term earnings sustainability.
Key Takeaways
- 1.Target's top-line trends turned positive in 1Q with a same-store sales (SSS) increase of 5.6%, significantly exceeding the consensus of +2.5%.
- 2.Management raised FY26 guidance for net sales growth to approximately +4% and increased EPS expectations toward the high end of the $7.50-8.50 range.
- 3.Despite the 1Q beat, 2Q faces significant headwinds including a tough comparison against last year's Nintendo Switch 2 launch and fading tax refund benefits.
Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- GS Forecast
- GS Factor Profile
- Ratios & Valuation
- Growth & Margins (%)
- Industry metrics
- Estimate changes
- Valuation & Risks
- Disclosure Appendix
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Authors
Kate McShane, CFAEmily GhoshMark Jordan, CFA
Securities
TGTS&P 500
Themes
Retail Same-Store Sales InflectionEarnings Algorithm RiskYear-over-Year Comparison Headwinds
Regions
North AmericaUnited States
