Burt Flickinger offers a bleak outlook for retail this holiday season, noting that most consumers are financially stretched. He points to a significant divergence in performance, with retailers like Walmart (WMT), TJX Companies (TJX), BJ's Wholesale (BJ), and Costco (COST) thriving. Conversely, full-price department stores generally struggle, with Dillard's (DDS) being a notable exception. He predicts strong performance for Ross Stores (ROST), but notes the superior productivity and inventory management at TJX give it a significant edge. Flickinger views Gap Inc. (GAP) as a "rudderless" retailer attempting strategies that have previously failed. He suggests that while beauty sales might offer a temporary boost, they won't be enough to salvage the company's broader brands like Old Navy and Banana Republic.

======== Schwab Network ========

Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.

Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribe

Download the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185

Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7

Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watch

Watch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-explore

Watch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/

Follow us on X – / schwabnetwork

Follow us on Facebook – / schwabnetwork

Follow us on LinkedIn - / schwab-network

About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about