Walmart will likely face stronger headwinds as time goes by.Walmart (WMT 0.19%) has risen from modest beginnings in rural Arkansas to grow into one of the world's most successful retailers. Although its rapid growth days are likely behind it, the company has continued to earn significant returns for investors as it leverages its massive U.S. footprint and online presence to cement its leadership.However, Walmart's stock has become increasingly expensive, and it continues to face intense competition from oth ...

Shares have returned more than 700% in the last decade.With $62 billion in net sales in the fiscal 2025 third quarter (ended May 11), Costco Wholesale (COST 0.42%) is the world's third-biggest retailer. Only Walmart and Amazon are above it on the leaderboard. Costco is clearly a dominant force in the industry, and investors have been rewarded. Shares have generated a total return of 733% in the past decade (as of Sept. 10). Should you buy this blue chip stock right now? Scale creates an advantageThere is m ...