Walmart Earnings Signal Resilient US Consumer, USD Strength Expected

Walmart shares surged 3.6% in pre-market trading following robust Q3 earnings that paint an optimistic picture of US consumer health ahead of the Federal Reserve's next policy meeting. The retail giant reported impressive 4.5% comparable sales growth in the US, prompting management to raise full-year sales guidance to 4.8-5.1%. This strong consumer spending data suggests the US economy remains resilient despite elevated interest rates, potentially reducing pressure on the Fed to cut rates aggressively. The positive retail sales momentum supports USD strength across major pairs, particularly against currencies where central banks maintain dovish stances. Technical traders should monitor EURUSD support at 1.0500 and GBPUSD at 1.2600, as continued consumer resilience could reinforce dollar buying. The data implies the Fed may maintain its hawkish bias longer than markets anticipated, potentially limiting downside for USD pairs through year-end.