News Summary

• Walmart reported its first comparable-sales loss in six years on Thursday.
• The stock fell as much as 10% in early trading before finishing the day 9% low.
• The market has lost a bit of faith in one of its steadiest retailers.
• Walmart's rough report is just one in a growing list of red flags surrounding the US consumer.
• It's hard to imagine the Fed wanting to further constrict an already-sensitive consumer.
• The Fed may soon have to make that uncomfortable decision.