Walmart Earnings, Fed Meeting Minutes, and Zuckerberg Testimony Highlight Morning Business News

Key updates on major corporate and economic events that investors should know before the market opens.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Walmart's softer-than-expected guidance, the Federal Reserve's divided views on interest rates, and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's testimony in a landmark social media trial are among the top business stories investors are watching this morning.

Why it matters

These developments provide insights into the state of the economy, the direction of monetary policy, and the growing scrutiny facing tech companies over user safety and engagement practices.

The details

Walmart's stock slid over 2% in premarket trading after the retailer's guidance for the current fiscal year came in weaker than anticipated. The Federal Reserve's January meeting minutes showed division among officials on the path forward for interest rates, with some favoring further easing while others said such a move may not be necessary. In a high-profile trial, Zuckerberg testified about Meta's approach to user engagement and the wellbeing of teens on its platforms.

  • The Federal Reserve released its January meeting minutes on Wednesday.
  • Walmart reported its latest quarterly earnings results on Thursday morning.
  • Zuckerberg took the stand in the Los Angeles trial on Wednesday.

The players

Walmart

One of the world's largest retailers, operating over 10,500 stores and clubs globally.

Federal Reserve

The central banking system of the United States that sets monetary policy and regulates the country's financial system.

Mark Zuckerberg

Co-founder and CEO of Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms.

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What they’re saying

“Increasing users' time spent on Instagram was never a company goal, despite an email he sent in 2015 that seemed to make improving engagement a critical issue for the company.”

— Mark Zuckerberg, CEO, Meta (CNBC)

What’s next

The Supreme Court is expected to rule soon on the legality of President Trump's tariffs, which could have significant implications for the furniture industry.

The takeaway

These events highlight the complex economic and regulatory landscape facing major corporations, from retail giants like Walmart to tech behemoths like Meta, as they navigate shifting consumer trends, monetary policy, and heightened scrutiny over their business practices.