What's driving the Woolworths (ASX:WOW) share price higher today?

Could the season be helping to boost Woolworths' stock on Wednesday?

| More on:

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) share price is in the green today despite no news from the supermarket giant.

However, the company's home sector is the best performing on the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) on Wednesday. Additionally, its CEO previously noted the company was ready to approach the Christmas period in a strong position.

At the time of writing, the Woolworths share price is $38.62, 2.41% higher than its previous close.

For context, the ASX 200 has gained 1.22% while the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) is up 2.07%.

Let's take a closer look at what might be boosting the supermarket's stock today.

a woman stands with a full grocery trolley at the top of a supermarket aisle.

Image source: Getty Images

Woolworths share price surges after holiday break

The Woolworths share price is surging higher, potentially due to expectations of a fruitful holiday period.

As most market watchers will be aware, today is the ASX's first day of trading after the Christmas public holidays.

Previously, in an update detailing the challenges brought about by COVID-19's Delta strain, Woolworths CEO Brad Banducci stated the company was well prepared for Christmas:

As we head into the key Christmas trading period we have a good in-stock position and positive trading momentum, and our team is working hard to ensure that our customers have access to all they need to make this a special Christmas.

It could indicate the festive break may be helping the company climb out of its COVID-19 induced slump.

While the Woolworths share price is in the green today, it isn't performing nearly as well as some of its consumer staples peers.

The Graincorp Ltd (ASX: GNC) share price is outperforming the rest, having gained 5.16% today. Meanwhile, that of Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA) is up 4.09%.

Woolworths' former spin out Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV) is also outperforming the supermarket. It has gained 2.5% today.

Today's movement leaves the Woolworths share price 13% higher than it was at the start of 2021. Though, it's still 3.7% lower than it was this time last month.

Motley Fool contributor Brooke Cooper has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

a man sits at his desk wearing a business shirt and tie and has a hearty laugh at something on his mobile phone.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

This ASX 200 director bought over $500k of his company's shares just in time for the dividend!

Investors typically draw comfort from seeing board directors spend their own money buying more shares in the ASX 200 companies…

Read more »

Woman thinking in a supermarket.
Opinions

Should I buy Woolworths shares at $37?

Are Woolworths shares worth putting in the shopping basket?

Read more »

A man looks at his laptop waiting in anticipation.
Investing Strategies

Big lesson from reporting season: STAY AWAY from these ASX shares, says expert

Plus the one stock you will want to buy now to hold through the imminent economic turbulence.

Read more »

waving the chequered flag
Broker Notes

Start your engines: Fund backs 2 ASX shares to finish line

This pair of companies reported outstanding results during last month's reporting season. Celeste is predicting further gains.

Read more »

A little girl holds broccoli over her eyes with a big happy smile.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

Goldman Sachs says buy Woolworths stock for reliable dividends AND 10% share price growth

This broker can't recommend Woolies shares highly enough.

Read more »

A woman is excited as she reads the latest rumour on her phone.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

Lovisa is a 'phenomenon': broker urges investors to buy shares

This could be one of the best growth shares around according to one leading broker.

Read more »

A middle-aged woman sits in contemplation over a tablet device considering information about ASX shares and deep in thought.
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

4 directors have been buying up this ASX 200 stock since the company reported

Should insider buying drive investor attention towards this stock?

Read more »

A couple in a supermarket laugh as they discuss which fruits and vegetables to buy
Consumer Staples & Discretionary Shares

Coles stock can deliver golden combo of share price growth plus dividends: Citi

Consumers are still shopping with Coles, helping grow its earnings.

Read more »