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Costco stock (COST) ends Friday higher; what to watch before the next U.S. session
24 January 2026
1 min read

Costco stock (COST) ends Friday higher; what to watch before the next U.S. session

New York, Jan 24, 2026, 10:40 EST — Market closed.

  • Costco shares ended Friday at $983.25, gaining 0.7%.
  • Investors face a dividend record date on Jan. 30, followed by January sales figures set for release on Feb. 4.
  • A fresh headline risk emerges as a newly filed proposed class action targets “no preservatives” claims on rotisserie chicken.

Costco Wholesale Corp shares closed Friday 0.7% higher at $983.25, hovering just below the $1,000 threshold as U.S. markets wrap up the week and investors prepare for upcoming company events.

Wall Street being closed Saturday puts the spotlight on upcoming catalysts for Costco shares: January sales figures will drop on Feb. 4, followed by the fiscal second-quarter earnings call on March 5.

Costco’s quarterly dividend is also on the radar. According to an SEC filing, the board approved a cash dividend of $1.30 per share, set for payment on Feb. 13 to those holding shares as of Jan. 30.

Costco climbed on Friday despite a choppy session for U.S. stocks, as the S&P 500 held steady and the Dow slipped. Retailers showed mixed results: Amazon rose, but Walmart slipped slightly, according to market data.

The stock remains close to its recent highs but hasn’t yet reached its 52-week peak, according to market data.

Macro headlines continue to drive volatility in the sector. Earlier this week, U.S. stocks fell amid fresh tariff worries sparked by Washington’s tough talk, raising alarms over import prices and consumer spending.

Investors should note a separate risk: a proposed class action in federal court in California claims Costco misled customers by advertising Kirkland Signature seasoned rotisserie chicken as having “no preservatives,” despite containing certain additives. That’s according to a statement from the plaintiffs’ law firm. “Costco’s own ingredient list contradicts its marketing,” said Wesley M. Griffith, California managing partner at the Almeida Law Group. PR Newswire

Dividend timing often shapes short-term trades. Costco’s dividend schedule shows an ex-dividend date of Jan. 29, meaning investors need to hold the stock before then to qualify for the payment.

Traders will also be eyeing the February 4 sales update for insights on traffic, pricing, and demand for essentials following the holiday period.

Costco’s next major event is March 5, when the company will report fiscal second-quarter earnings and February sales figures.

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