Is Kroger Stock Outperforming the Nasdaq?
Headquartered in Cincinnati, The Kroger Co. (KR) is the largest U.S.-based supermarket operator, with nearly 2,800 stores across 35 states under multiple banners. With a market cap of $43.3 billion, its operations span supermarkets, pharmacies, fuel centers, in-store clinics, jewelry, and substantial private-label manufacturing, around 33 plants producing around 40% of its private-label goods
Companies worth $10 billion or more are generally described as “large-cap stocks,” Kroger fits right into that category, with its market cap exceeding this threshold, reflecting its substantial size, influence, and dominance in the grocery stores industry. It stands as a resilient, omnichannel grocery giant with a strong private-label presence, a growing digital presence, and diversified service offerings.
KR touched its 52-week high of $73.63 on Apr. 22 and is currently trading 11% below that peak. KR has declined marginally over the past three months, trailing the broader Nasdaq Composite’s ($NASX) 12.2% rise over the same time frame.
Kroger’s performance looks more impressive over the longer term. KR soared 7.2% on a YTD basis and 29.8% over the past 52 weeks, outperforming NASX’s marginal rise on a YTD basis and 9.8% returns over the past year.
KR has traded consistently above its 200-day moving average over the past year but below its 50-day moving average since the end of May.
Kroger shares rose 2% on March 6 following the release of its Q4 results. Adjusted sales for the quarter grew 2.6% year-over-year to $34.3 billion, coming in just below analysts’ expectations. However, adjusted earnings per share held steady at $1.14, topping consensus estimates by 1.8%.
Looking ahead, the company offered a more upbeat outlook, projecting 2% to 3% growth in identical sales (excluding fuel) for fiscal 2025 and projects an adjusted EPS between $4.60 and $4.80, implying a 5.1% increase at the midpoint.
Meanwhile, Kroger has notably lagged behind its peer Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc.’s (SFM) 24.3% gains in 2025 and 108.6% surge over the past 52 weeks.
Among the 20 analysts covering the KR stock, the consensus rating is a “Moderate Buy.” Its mean price target of $70.85 represents an 8.1% premium to current price levels.
On the date of publication, Kritika Sarmah did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.