Wal-Mart Second-Quarter Forecast Trails Estimates

Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world’s largest retailer, forecast second-quarter profit that was less than analysts estimated as the slow U.S. economy and higher taxes put pressure on consumers.

Earnings per share will be $1.22 to $1.27, the Bentonville, Arkansas-based company said today in a statement. Analysts projected $1.29, the average of 24 estimates compiled by Bloomberg. Sales in the fiscal first quarter ended April 30 trailed analysts’ estimates while profit matched projections.