Ulta Beauty Inc. $ULTA experienced its sharpest single-day stock increase since 2020 following a robust first-quarter performance that outstripped Wall Street’s expectations. The specialty retailer reported earnings of $6.70 per share, significantly ahead of the $5.80 consensus forecast. Comparable sales also exceeded anticipation, prompting management to raise both full-year revenue and profit guidance. This earnings momentum underscores the enduring demand for beauty products despite inflationary pressures and macroeconomic volatility.

Costco Wholesale Corp. $COST reported third-quarter earnings that exceeded Wall Street expectations, reinforcing its position as the nation's premier warehouse club. For the quarter ending May 11, the retailer posted earnings per share of $4.28, outpacing consensus analyst forecasts and underscoring Costco’s ability to sustain profit growth, even as U.S. consumers increasingly prioritize essential goods amid economic headwinds.

Shares of Gap Inc. $GPS experienced their sharpest intraday decline since the onset of the April tariff escalation announcement by President Donald Trump, falling 21% by late morning on Friday. This drop entirely erased the retailer’s year-to-date stock gains, underscoring the acute sensitivity of the apparel sector to escalating trade barriers.