Earnings Preview: Wal-Mart Stores Inc.

ANNE D'INNOCENZIO

NEW YORK (AP) — Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world's largest retailer, reports its third-quarter earnings on Thursday before the market opens. The following is a summary of key developments and analyst opinion related to the period.

OVERVIEW: Wal-Mart has been one of few bright spots in retailing this year, benefiting from shoppers focusing on necessities during the recession. Wal-Mart has performed better than competitors like Target Corp.

The company, which has ridden low prices to dominate the U.S. retail scene, is stepping up its game further in price cutting — both in the stores and online — as the official start of the holiday shopping season approaches.

It's also conducting an ambitious store remodeling plan to help retain its newest customers after the economy recovers. The renovated and new stores have shorter shelving that makes it easier to see across the store, better lighting and wider aisles. The chain also is expanding its offerings of electronics and branded products.

During this year's holiday shopping season, Wal-Mart is cutting prices weekly on top-selling items from bananas to board games and holding each cut through the end of the season. It is also offering more than 100 toys at $10 each during the holidays.