Walmart Inc. (NASDAQ:WMT) is included among the 13 Best Defensive Dividend Stocks for 2025.
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On March 5, Erste Group downgraded Walmart Inc. (NASDAQ:WMT) to Hold from Buy.
Earlier, on February 26, Reuters reported that Walmart agreed to pay $100 million to settle charges related to earnings for delivery drivers. The US Federal Trade Commission said the company’s actions caused drivers to lose tens of millions of dollars. The FTC, along with 11 states, filed a complaint alleging that Walmart misled both customers and drivers. According to the agency, the company claimed that all customer tips would go directly to drivers. It also displayed inflated base pay and tip amounts to drivers participating in its Spark Driver delivery program.
The FTC said the settlement not only includes the $100M payment but also places restrictions on the company going forward. Under the agreement, Walmart cannot misrepresent potential earnings in delivery offers made to Spark drivers. A Walmart spokesperson said the company has already issued payments to affected drivers and continues to make additional payments when appropriate.
The FTC also emphasized that protecting workers remains a top priority. The agency urged companies involved in gig work to provide clear and accurate information and to maintain strong compliance systems.
Walmart Inc. (NASDAQ:WMT) operates as a technology-powered omnichannel retailer. The company runs retail and wholesale stores, warehouse clubs, e-commerce websites, and mobile apps across several regions, including the United States, Africa, Canada, Central America, Chile, China, India, and Mexico.
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