Should You Buy Target Stock Before Aug. 19?
Key Points
Target reports earnings pre-market on Aug. 19.
After this year's strong run, investors could look for any reason to "sell on the news."
Post-earnings volatility may not last long, but expect more modest future gains for shares, given this year's 57% price run-up.
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Target (NYSE: TGT) next reports quarterly earnings premarket on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Shares in the big box-turned-omnichannel retailer have surged by 57% since the start of the year. After falling out of favor last year, sentiment has shifted back to bullish, with strong Q1 2026 earnings bolstering confidence in Target's turnaround.
However, after this strong performance, Target, one of the most widely followed consumer staples stocks, could soon become the victim of elevated expectations.
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Target Q2 2026 earnings preview
For Target's fiscal second quarter ending Aug. 2, 2026, sell-side forecasts call for revenue of $26.1 billion and GAAP earnings of $2.26 per share, representing 3.5% and 10.2% growth, respectively, compared to the prior year's quarter.
But even if results once again exceed forecasts, the market could still react negatively if it deems the "beat" insufficient. The same could occur if Target merely reiterates its sales guidance rather than raising it again. After this year's strong run, investors may be looking for any excuse to sell. That said, it doesn't necessarily mean it's time for shareholders to head for the exits.
Stay focused on the long-term transformation
Under the leadership of CEO Michael Fiddelke, Target is both revamping its stores and pivoting toward a higher-margin merchandise mix. In the years ahead, Target could continue to experience steady earnings growth.
Don't get me wrong. With the stock already trading at 20 times trailing 12-month (TTM) earnings, and even long-term forecasts calling for modest earnings growth in the fiscal years ahead, I wouldn't count on shares rising into the mid-double digits anytime soon.
However, for investors seeking steady gains plus a cash-based return from its 3% forward yield, Target represents a strong long-term opportunity. And it's a Dividend King, meaning the company has increased its dividend for at least 50 consecutive years. If shares experience a post-earnings pullback, it could create a great price point for adding to or initiating a position.
Should you buy stock in Target right now?
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Thomas Niel has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
