Walmart's Big Reveal Disappoints - Spokane, North Idaho News & Weather KHQ.com

AOL.COM - Wal-Mart Stores Inc's (WMT) full-year profit may miss analysts' expectations as growth slows in its international markets, pressuring the company even as its U.S. discount stores continue to prosper.

The world's largest retailer, viewed as a barometer of economic activity, said on Thursday its cash-strapped customers tend to spend more at the beginning of the month when they get their paychecks. That "paycheck cycle" has extended its reach to the company's markets beyond the United States.

"It became more pronounced across the globe," Chief Financial Officer Charles Holley told reporters, without naming any specific markets where he sees the shift. click here to read more