Oklo (OKLO), a clean energy technology firm headquartered in Santa Clara, California, was launched in 2013 by CEO Jacob DeWitte and co-founder Caroline Cochran. The firm designs and builds Aurora fast fission powerhouses, compact, modular nuclear reactors capable of generating 15 to 75 megawatts of electricity, while operating an integrated platform for nuclear fuel recycling and production.
Oklo's commercial model covers three main pillars: power generation, nuclear fuel services, and medical and industrial radioisotopes produced via its Groves reactor initiative. Backed by a contracted customer pipeline of over 14 GW across AI data centers, defense, industrial, and government clients, and $2.5 billion in cash secured through a successful $1.2 billion ATM offering, Oklo is positioning itself as a core advanced fission provider for the AI infrastructure market.
Costco Officially Launched Standalone Gas Stations. Don't Count on This Fueling Another Leg Higher in COST Stock.
Hot US Weather Forecasts Boost Nat-Gas Prices
Escalating Global Supply Risks Underpin Crude Oil Prices

#nuclear #prices #launched #billion

Bristol Gate Capital Partners, an investment management company, published its Q2 2026 investor letter for the "US Equity Strategy". A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. The Strategy lagged the S&P 500 Total Return Index in the quarter in terms of returns, but outperformed in dividend growth. Despite debate over capital cycle returns, AI remained the dominant market theme, expanding from early adoption to broader enterprise adoption. The firm continues to focus on high-dividend-growth companies while maintaining discipline around valuation and earnings durability. In addition, please check the Fund's top five holdings to know its best picks in 2026.
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Bristol US Equity Strategy highlighted Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST). Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is a leading US-based multinational retailer that specializes in the operation of membership-only warehouses. On July 22, 2026, Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) closed at $927.31 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $411.24 billion. Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) posted a one-month return of -1.58%, and its shares lost 0.70% over the past 52 weeks.
Bristol US Equity Strategy stated the following regarding Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) in its Q2 2026 investor update:
"Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) operates a membership-based model with a durable competitive moat in retail, anchored by industry-leading renewal rates and a value proposition that strengthens with scale. The recurring membership-fee stream is high-margin, predictable, and compounds alongside member growth and periodic fee increases. Backed by an experienced and capable management team, we believe this combination will translate into continued high dividend growth."
Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is not on our list of 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds Heading Into 2026. According to our database, 107 hedge fund portfolios held Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) at the end of the first quarter, up from 106 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

#corporation #cost #Equity

Costco, the warehouse retailer known for buying in bulk, is raking in young and loyal customers obsessed with posting their finds on social media. Retail ***** ysts say younger generations, including Gen Z and even teenagers, are being drawn in by the store's constant stream of new products and its gimmick-free approach.

#costco #retail #Warehouse

September WTI crude oil (CLU26) on Wednesday closed up +2.49 (+2.95%), and September RBOB gasoline (RBU26) closed up +0.0186 (+0.58%).
Crude oil and gasoline prices settled sharply higher on Wednesday, with crude posting a 6-week high and gasoline climbing to a 2-month high. Threats to global oil supplies are boosting crude oil prices as escalation of the US-Iran war has curbed oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and threats by Houthi militants to blockade Saudi Arabia have reduced oil tanker traffic through the Red Sea. Crude prices fell from their high on Wednesday after weekly EIA crude and gasoline inventories unexpectedly increased.
Nat-Gas Prices Fluctuate on Tropical Storm Risk
Crude Oil Prices Rally on Global Supply Risks
Costco Officially Launched Standalone Gas Stations. Don't Count on This Fueling Another Leg Higher in COST Stock.

#prices #september

Bristol Gate Capital Partners, an investment management company, published its Q2 2026 investor letter for the "US Equity Strategy". A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. The Strategy lagged the S&P 500 Total Return Index in the quarter in terms of returns, but outperformed in dividend growth. Despite debate over capital cycle returns, AI remained the dominant market theme, expanding from early adoption to broader enterprise adoption. The firm continues to focus on high-dividend-growth companies while maintaining discipline around valuation and earnings durability. In addition, please check the Fund's top five holdings to know its best picks in 2026.
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, Bristol US Equity Strategy highlighted Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST). Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is a leading US-based multinational retailer that specializes in the operation of membership-only warehouses. On July 22, 2026, Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) closed at $927.31 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $411.24 billion. Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) posted a one-month return of -1.58%, and its shares lost 0.70% over the past 52 weeks.
Bristol US Equity Strategy stated the following regarding Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) in its Q2 2026 investor update:
"Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) operates a membership-based model with a durable competitive moat in retail, anchored by industry-leading renewal rates and a value proposition that strengthens with scale. The recurring membership-fee stream is high-margin, predictable, and compounds alongside member growth and periodic fee increases. Backed by an experienced and capable management team, we believe this combination will translate into continued high dividend growth."
Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is not on our list of 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds Heading Into 2026. According to our database, 107 hedge fund portfolios held Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) at the end of the first quarter, up from 106 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

#costco #NASDAQ #bristol #Equity

All the fears that worried the market in the past are percolating. Inflationary concerns are rising, with oil prices near a six-week high, more tariffs, and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East unlikely to go away anytime soon. The Federal Reserve is likely to nudge rates higher -- not lower -- the next time it meets. Suddenly, everything that is borrowed is about to be something blue.
It's against this unsettling climate, with consumer confidence hitting a new low before rebounding this summer, that investors might want to consider investing in Costco (NASDAQ: COST). Yes, Costco.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
The country's top warehouse club operator may not seem much of a growth stock. It's also certainly not cheap by most measuring sticks. However, if reality catches up to today's buoyant market later this month, you're probably going to learn the real reason why Costco is worth its market premium.
Costco stock is trading for 47 times trailing earnings, a big markup to both the market average and the retailer's own growth. Its revenue multiple may initially seem low at 1.4, but in the low-margin world of groceries and other consumer staples retail, it's a princely premium. If you're an income investor, the stock's 0.6% dividend yield isn't going to ring a dinner bell, even though Costco does reward shareholders with substantially larger special dividends every few years.

#market #signal #Consumer #years

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How popular are Costco's gas pumps? The chain had to open its own standalone gas station, apart from the store, just to accommodate customer demand. The retailer is now pumping gas at a station in Southern California, with a second station planned for Honolulu, the Wall Street Journal reports. Both sit a mile or two from the nearest warehouse.
"They're really intended to either alleviate some of the capacity constraints in the gas station that exists at the warehouse today or we just can't get a gas station on the same premises," said Costco CFO Gary Millerchip. The stations will keep Costco's signature discounted pricing, as fuel prices continue to rise.
CEO Ron Vachris told investors the five weeks ending mid-May were the highest gas-sales weeks in company history, pulling in members using Costco's pumps for the first time. Those first-time fuel customers tend to spend more overall, he added.
Costco has had another retail win lately, too. Sales for a retro 1980's Esprit fleece crewneck completely sold out over the weekend. Whether it's filling up the tank or the closet, Costco members are getting their fill this month.

#sales #pumps #members

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July 18, 2026 12:00 pm ET
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Costco wants to give its shoppers an easier way to buy gas.

Software stocks did not have a great start to 2026. The iShares Expanded Tech-Software ETF (IGV) fell more than 20% from its recent peak, and when its 50-day moving average dropped below its 200-day, it confirmed a "death cross" that pushed many investors to sell.
After two years of heavy buying on AI hype, reality started to set in. Many software companies admitted that building AI features is expensive, with about 70% saying those costs are hurting margins.
Costco Delivers Another Strong Sales Report. Buy COST Stock Now for More Upside Ahead.
BlackRock Just Achieved Record AUM. How to Play BLK Stock After Q2.
Why ****** ysts Still See Nvidia as the Top Chip Stock to Buy for Q2 Earnings Season

BlackRock (BLK) is the world's largest ****** et manager, helping individuals, institutions, and governments invest across stocks, bonds, ETFs, private markets, and alternative ****** ets. That scale was on full display in the second quarter as the company delivered another blockbuster earnings report, fueled by strong investor demand and broad-based growth across its business.
Net inflows accelerated across ETFs, private markets, active fixed income, and systematic equity strategies, while the top and bottom lines comfortably topped Wall Street's expectations. More importantly, those inflows pushed BlackRock's ****** ets under management (AUM) to a record $15.34 trillion, highlighting the company's ability to attract fresh capital even in an uncertain market.
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Costco Delivers Another Strong Sales Report. Buy COST Stock Now for More Upside Ahead.
Why ****** ysts Still See Nvidia as the Top Chip Stock to Buy for Q2 Earnings Season

Decades ago, it would take weeks or even months to send a message to someone, especially if they were far away. Today, finding information and staying connected have never been easier. People can communicate instantly and find answers in seconds through digital technology. It's no exaggeration to say that these platforms have become a key part of everyday life.
That's what makes companies like Alphabet and Meta so interesting- at least as investments. Both have had their hand in driving the digital landscape to where it is today, and both are still hard at work shaping the future.
Multiple Compression Is a Real Threat to Microsoft Stock, But Its Core Story Isn't Broken
BlackRock Just Achieved Record AUM. How to Play BLK Stock After Q2.
Costco Delivers Another Strong Sales Report. Buy COST Stock Now for More Upside Ahead.

COKE and COST both go ex-dividend July 24, 2026, so investors must own shares before July 23 to receive the August 7 payout.
Despite yields below 1%, both dividends are backed by massive free cash flows, with **** E generating $620 million and COST generating $7.84 billion annually.
Act now: the **** yst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks — and Costco didn't make the cut. Grab the names FREE today.
The clock is ticking on two of the most recognizable dividend payers on the Nasdaq. Both Coca-Cola Consolidated (NASDAQ:COKE) and Costco Wholesale (NASDAQ:COST) go ex-dividend on the same day, Friday, July 24, 2026, with both payments landing in shareholder accounts on August 7, 2026. To capture either check, shares must be owned before the ex-date, which means the last practical day to buy is Thursday, July 23, 2026.
The mechanics matter here. The ex-dividend date is the cutoff: buy on or after July 24 and the seller keeps this dividend, not you. The pay date is simply when cash hits your account. Miss the ex-date, and there is no catching up until the next quarterly cycle.

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Monday closed down -0.79%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed down -0.26%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed down -1.88%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU26) fell -0.79%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU26) fell -1.88%.
Stock indexes retreated on Monday and settled lower as a sell-off in South Korean chipmakers weighed on technology stocks and crude oil prices surged amid renewed US-Iran hostilities. South Korea's Kospi Index closed down more than -8% on Monday after SK Hynix and Samsung Electronics plunged more than -10% on concerns that the artificial intelligence boom has become overextended. On the positive side, software stocks rallied. Also, energy producers moved higher with crude oil prices up sharply.
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Costco vs. Walmart: 1 Dividend-Paying Retail Giant Stands Above the Other

Tony Barzar started at Price Club — the warehouse retailer that would later become Costco — in 1986, gathering shopping carts in a Tucson parking lot for $5.85 an hour. Four decades later, he earns $32.90 an hour as a cashier, owns a three-bedroom home with a pool, has traveled to Europe twice and has accumulated over $1 million in his 401(k).
"I could retire," Barzar, now 60, told The Wall Street Journal. "But what would I do? Costco has been good to me (1)."
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Concerned about an AI bubble? Sign up for The Daily Upside for smart and actionable market news, built for investors.
Shares in the membership-based retailer Costco fell 4.1% on Thursday after a June sales update failed to meet Wall Street's lofty expectations.
That continued a weeks-long slump, but it also means the stock is looking more and more like one of the chain's hot dog deals.
Sign up for The Daily Upside at no cost for premium ****** ysis on all your favorite stocks.
READ ALSO: Can SK Hynix Escape Chipmaking's Cyclical Curse After Nasdaq Debut? and AstraZeneca Plunges After New Heart Disease Drug Fails Trial

Interested in PriceSmart, Inc.? Here are five stocks we like better.
PriceSmart posted fiscal Q3 revenue growth of 12.5% to $1.48 billion, outpacing Costco and ******* yst estimates, while planning six new clubs by next spring, including its first Chile location.
Despite a high valuation near 36 times current-year forecasts, strong institutional ownership of about 80% and consistent cash flow accumulation suggest continued upside for PriceSmart's stock price.
A bullish flag pattern with support confirmed near $190 suggests PriceSmart shares could rise toward $220 or higher by year's end if a breakout occurs.
PriceSmart (NASDAQ: PSMT) is accelerating growth and outpacing peers in revenue growth, suggesting further upside for its stock price. The risk is its valuation, which, at approximately 36x the current year forecast, is high.

Kroger (KR) is the largest pure-play supermarket operator in the United States, founded in 1883 and headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio. Operating approximately 2,800 stores across more than 20 banners — including Harris Teeter, Fred Meyer, and Ralphs — the company serves millions of U.S. families daily through a diversified retail ecosystem spanning combination food-and-drug stores, multi-department outlets, marketplace stores, and fuel centers.
The company's revenue mix is primarily grocery-led, with a growing digital commerce arm, a robust private-label portfolio, pharmacy services, and Kroger Precision Marketing, helping distinguish it in an increasingly competitive grocery landscape dominated by Walmart (WMT), Costco (COST), and Aldi.
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PaddyPimblett recently reflected on his infamous post-fight incidentwhile competing for Cage Warriors.

After a 2016 ****** le fight in London, Pimblett suffered a memorablemishap during his post-fight interview due to a pre-fight mistake.He has now shed light on his worst weight-cutting gaffes, one ofwhich ultimately led to the viral moment.
Pimblett vomiting soon after his 2016 featherweight ****** le fightagainst JulianErosa at Cage Warriors "Unplugged 1" remains one of hisstandout memories from fighting in the England-based promotion. Hesecured a decision win, but his pre-fight meal got the better ofhim during the post-fight interview. He recalled on his YouTubechannel:

"When I spewed in the cage [after fighting Erosa], it wasn'tbecause of the refuel; it was just because of being an idiot beforeI went to the venue. Before I went to the venue, I went toStarbucks or Costco… I got a hot chocolate, and we went to Tesco,and I got a pack of Ferrero Rocher, and I ate them on the way tothe venue, after doing an 8-kilogram water cut, one of the biggestcuts I've ever done. It didn't go well with my body at the time. Itwas a bad idea, but that was me, stupid kid, didn't listen toanyone. I was only 21 at the time."
Pimblett then revisited another one of his weight-cutting mistakes,this time in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. After making weight for hisfight against RodrigoVargas at UFC London in just his second appearance in thepromotion, "The Baddy" treated himself to a full English breakfastbefore properly rehydrating.

"The worst mistake I ever made when refuelling was when I fought[Rodrigo] Vargas. I hadn't even drank any water yet. Well, I dranka little bit of water, but in the fighter hotel, I went straightdownstairs and got a full English [breakfast]," Pimblett said. "Iwas sitting there eating the full English, I'd only drank about aliter of water, and Paul Reed cameover, 'What the f*ck are you doing?!' I was just sitting therelike, 'Just having a full English.' And he was like, 'What are youdoing, you f*cking idiot?'"

The UFC lightweight now has his weight-cutting process dialled in.Ahead of his return to the Octagon at UFC329, where he'll collide with Benoit St.Denis in the co-main event, the Englishman claims his cut isgoing even better than when he fought JustinGaethje earlier this year.

"We don't miss weight. We make weight healthily. That's exactlywhat I'm going to do next week. I might end up even having lessweight to cut from when I fought Justin Gaethje, and you saw withthat one, I weighed in underweight. This time I haven't got to make155; it's 156. You never know… I might only end up cutting 10pounds, and then I'll be getting back in the cage at 185. A properlightweight."

The market had a challenging week. The two most popular market indexes declined 2% to 5%. It's still been a winning year for many investors, but if the market continues to slide this summer, you might want to warm up to some stocks that can do well in a dicey market environment.
Costco (NASDAQ: COST) scratches that itch. The country's leading warehouse club operator isn't just recession-resistant. At its best, the chain can also be recession-resilient. Let's take a closer look at why Costco could be worth every dollar of the next $1,000 you put to work in the market.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
If you're a Costco member, you're not alone. There are 82.9 million paid memberships, serving 149 million cardholders. Even if you're not a Costco shopper, you are likely familiar with the experience. Members get great deals on bulk-sized offerings, and it reflects in their allegiance to the brand.
Despite an increase in membership prices two summers ago, Costco members remain loyal. Its U.S. and Canada renewal rate clocks in at an impressive 92.2%. This is important, speaking to the stickiness of the retail platform. Folks know they're not being gouged at Costco. Its trailing net margin is at a record 3%, and most of that is just the membership fee.

Snoop Dogg is trading in his gin and juice for something a little more family-friendly this July Fourth, and he's sharing it with customers at select Costco locations across the country.
The iconic Southern California-based hip hop artist recently launched Snoopsicle, a new sherbet popsicle from Dr. Bombay, a creamery founded by Snoop and his son, Cordell Broadus.
Here's what you should know about Snoop Dogg's signature popsicle.
Snoopsicles, created by Snoop Dogg, come in a combo flavor of "razzed out," or raspberry, cherry, and lime sherbet. The packaging states that they're made with real fruit juice and no artificial colors.
Each box comes with 24 bars and runs $14.99 at Costco, according to a video posted to Instagram.

Costco (NASDAQ: COST) continues to prove to the market that it's a consistent performer in uncertain macroeconomic times. During its fiscal 2026 third quarter (ended May 10), the company reported 11.6% year-over-year revenue growth. Perhaps even more impressive, its U.S. and Canada memberships had a renewal rate of 92.2%.
This didn't prevent the shares from falling. As of June 22, this retail stock trades more than 4% below its price prior to the last earnings report on May 28. Should investors buy the dip?
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Costco opened four net new warehouses last quarter, which supports revenue growth. However, the bigger contributing factor was same-store sales (SSS), which were up 9.8%. The average ticket size rose 7.3%. But it was encouraging to also see foot traffic increase by 2.4%. Excluding the impact of higher gas prices, Costco's SSS still climbed a healthy 6.6%.
The current economic backdrop plays to Costco's benefit. Inflation is at a three-year high, so households are starting to care more about saving money in an effort to find greater value within their budgets.

Kevin Warsh just had his first meeting as the new Federal Reserve chairman. In what was a highly anticipated decision, the world's most powerful central bank chose unanimously to keep the benchmark federal funds rate unchanged within a range of 3.5% to 3.75%.
Half of the meeting's participants also expect at least one rate hike in 2026. This is unwelcome news for investors who were hoping for a more accommodative interest rate policy. Blame it on elevated inflation levels.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
But Costco Wholesale (NASDAQ: COST) shareholders aren't worried. Here is one clear reason why the Fed's moves are no match for this top retail stock.
Costco is such an unbelievably resilient business that it really doesn't matter what stance central bankers are taking. Whether rates are rising or falling, the consumers who shop at the company's warehouses want low prices on high-quality goods. This will always be the case.

With many households still feeling stretched with higher prices, Costco Wholesale (COST) just lowered the price tags on some of its top Kirkland Signature products. In an attempt to alleviate price strain, the company said four items would see price cuts between $1 and $10. These items are Kirkland Signature Crispy Wings (dropped from $16.99 to $14.99), Kirkland Signature Milk Chocolate Almonds (dropped from $19.99 to $18.99), Kirkland Signature golf **** (dropped from $32.99 to $29.99), and Kirkland Signature king-size sheets (dropped from $89.99 to $79.99).
While these small price cuts on items won't transform budgets overnight, they can help American consumers who are already feeling inflationary pressures. After all, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) was up by 0.5% in May, sending the annual inflation rate to 4.2% compared to the 3.8% reported in April. According to a CNN poll, 76% of Americans also say that cost of living is a major concern.
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Target (NYSE: TGT) just reaffirmed its commitment to its long-standing dividend by approving the 55th consecutive annual increase. Thanks to the 1.8% hike in the payout, its dividend is now $4.64 per share annually.
That dividend increase also amounts to its smallest hike in 55 years, which may disappoint some investors. However, other investors who take a closer look at the company's condition may perceive it as one of the top Dividend King stocks to buy in June. Here's why.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Admittedly, Target has struggled in recent years, particularly when compared to rivals such as Walmart and Costco. Challenges such as high inventories, a less desirable product mix, messy stores, and controversial political stances have contributed to declining sales and a falling stock price.
When former Chief Operating Officer Michael Fiddelke became CEO in February, he changed direction by pledging to invest $5 billion to upgrade stores, improve its technology, and change its product mix.

Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is one of the Best Big Company Stocks to Buy Right Now. On May 29, Simeon Gutman from Morgan Stanley reiterated a “Buy” rating on the company’s stock with a price objective of $1,130.00. The **** yst’s rating is backed by several factors that are **** ociated with Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST)’s structural strengths and recent performance.
As per the **** yst, Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is one of the few US retailers that is well-placed to outperform in the present environment, thanks to its scale, efficient supply chain, and robust value proposition, which are tagged as critical drivers of continued market share gains and durable earnings growth.
Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) released its operating results for Q3 (twelve weeks) and the first 36 weeks of FY 2026, ended May 10, 2026. In Q3, net sales rose 11.6% to $69.15 billion from $61.96 billion in the last year.
Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is engaged in the operation of membership warehouses.
While we acknowledge the potential of COST as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST) is included among the 10 No-Brainer Dividend Stocks to Buy.
Niloo / Shutterstock.com
On June 1, DA Davidson maintained its Neutral rating on Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ:COST). It also set a $1,000 price target on the stock. At the same time, the firm added the stock to its “Best-of-Breed Bison List,” a group of companies it believes offer strong business opportunities, durable competitive advantages, solid financial performance, and attractive risk-reward profiles.
According to the **** yst, Costco has positioned itself as a destination where consumers can stock up on goods every few weeks. The company stands out through its high-quality private-label products, a well-balanced general merchandise selection, and additional businesses such as pharmacy, optical, and gas services that help bring customers into its warehouses.
The **** yst also noted that Costco’s warehouse model has one of the strongest competitive advantages in retail. The business benefits from low prices, efficient distribution, and a relatively limited number of SKUs, creating significant barriers to entry for competitors. Membership fee income further supports the model and adds another layer of stability to the business.

Costco Wholesale (NASDAQ: COST) has a dependable business model that offers high value for members in exchange for an annual fee. It tends to be inflation-resistant, since it offers rock-bottom prices on products, generating even higher volume and sales as prices begin to rise. In fact, while most companies tout wide gross margins, Costco aims for razor-thin margins. The lower the price, the greater the chance of boosting loyalty and volume, while the company benefits from membership fees that go straight to the bottom line.
Low prices are always in demand, but Costco has three new growth drivers you may not know about that are adding momentum.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Executive members have long been a growth driver for Costco. This membership costs double the standard membership of $65 in the U.S., and members get perks like cashback and special shopping hours. Executive membership grows every quarter, adding new revenue to the total.
In the 2026 fiscal third quarter (ended May 10), executive members increased 9.6% from last year to 41.2 million. This group is highly loyal, accounting for about half of paid memberships but 75% of total sales.

Some sad news for snack lovers: A salmonella outbreak is affecting many tasty treats.
The outbreak is linked to powdered milk and ******* ermilk supplied by California Dairies — an ingredient used to flavor some snacks, such as seasoning for potato chips and cheese breads made by a frozen pizza company and sold at Costco, Walmart and Target, among other retailers. According to the Food and Drug Administration, the dairy ingredients were voluntarily recalled on April 20 due to possible contamination.
More than a dozen products have already been affected, though additional recalls could still be announced. Walmart is among the companies to have issued a product recall, for its Blackstone Parmesan Ranch seasoning.
Here are the snack foods that have been recalled so far, according to the FDA website:
Angel Specialty Products, Royal Gold, Boba Time, Fanale, Denda — recalled May 22

Driver impersonating legitimate carrier allegedly steals $400,000 worth of lobster

Someone’s going to need a ton of melted ****** er.
A whopping $400,000 shipment of lobster was stolen as it was headed for Costco stores, according to the freight company’s president.
Dylan Rexing, the president and chief executive of supply chain company Rexing Companies, said in a statement that he believes the driver was impersonating a legitimate carrier and stole the seafood. The lobsters, which were not alive, were on their way to Costco stores in Illinois and Minnesota, he said.
“This theft wasn’t r

The so-called Costco Effect is a phenomenon that boosts the wages of local economies as companies aim to compete with Costco's (NASDAQ:COST) wages, as defined by the "Micro" YouTube channel.
"Surrounding businesses raise wages up to 40% more," the video said.
Costco's ability to help local businesses is shocking when you compare it to Walmart (NYSE:WMT). While "Micro" discusses the Costco Effect, it also touches upon the Walmart Effect, which demonstrates how a big box retailer can destroy a local economy.
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