Target (TGT) 2Q17 Results: Beats Expectations, Traffic Trends Are Positive

Executive Summary

• Target reported 2Q17 total revenues of $16.4 billion, up 1.6% year over year and above the $16.3 billion consensus estimate. Adjusted EPS was $1.23, compared with $1.23 in the year-ago quarter and above the $1.19 consensus estimate.
• Comps were up 1.3%, beating the consensus estimate of 0.3%. Management was pleased with the quarterly results. Second-quarter store traffic was up 2%, reflecting growth in both the store and digital channels.
• The company raised its full-year guidance based on better-than-expected first-half results. For the full year, the company now expects EPS of $4.34–$4.54, about 11% higher than its prior guidance. Adjusted EPS for 3Q17 is expected to be $0.75–$0.95.