$24.5 Billion Of Fraudulent Returns This Holiday Season Shakes Major Retailers — Now They're Fighting Back
Portfolio Pulse from Caleb Naysmith
$24.5 billion of fraudulent returns during the holiday season has major retailers like Walmart and Amazon fighting back with new strategies. Walmart warns of higher prices or store closures, while Amazon spent $1.2 billion and employed 15,000 people to combat fraud using machine learning. Kohls Corp. has also adjusted its return policies to mitigate losses.
February 05, 2024 | 5:36 pm
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NEUTRAL IMPACT
Kohls Corp. has adjusted its return policies, such as not refunding shipping costs for online purchases, to mitigate losses from return fraud.
Kohls Corp.'s adjustments to its return policies represent a direct response to the challenges of return fraud. While these changes aim to reduce fraudulent returns and associated costs, the impact on the stock is neutral in the short term. The effectiveness of these measures in reducing fraud without alienating customers will be key to assessing their long-term impact.
CONFIDENCE 85
IMPORTANCE 60
RELEVANCE 70
NEUTRAL IMPACT
Walmart Inc. CEO Doug McMillon warns of higher prices or store closures due to rising fraud, indicating a proactive stance against retail fraud.
Walmart's mention of potential higher prices or store closures as a response to fraud highlights the significant impact of return fraud on its operations. However, specific strategies beyond this warning were not detailed, making the short-term impact on the stock neutral but noteworthy for investors monitoring retail sector challenges.
CONFIDENCE 90
IMPORTANCE 70
RELEVANCE 80
POSITIVE IMPACT
Amazon.com Inc. combats return fraud by spending $1.2 billion, employing 15,000 people, and using machine learning, showing a significant investment in fraud prevention.
Amazon's substantial investment in combating return fraud, including the use of machine learning and a large dedicated team, demonstrates a strong commitment to minimizing losses and improving customer trust. This proactive approach is likely to positively impact investor sentiment in the short term, as it showcases Amazon's capability to tackle operational challenges effectively.
CONFIDENCE 95
IMPORTANCE 80
RELEVANCE 90