Walmart, the US retail giant, has indicated potential price increases due to rising fuel costs linked to the ongoing conflict in Iran, which is causing instability in energy markets. In its recent earnings report, Walmart announced a 7.3% increase in revenue, totaling $177.8 billion, with same-store sales up 4.1%. However, the company faced significant challenges, absorbing $175 million in unexpected fuel costs over the quarter. Chief Financial Officer John David Rainey highlighted that if the current high-cost environment persists, consumers could see increased retail price inflation in the second quarter and beyond. The company's stock suffered a 7% decline, falling below the $1 trillion valuation mark, as Wall Street reacted to a disappointing outlook. Consumer sentiment is also affected, with lower-income shoppers particularly feeling the pinch, leading to a notable decrease in average fill-ups at Walmart fuel stations, which fell below 10 gallons for the first time since 2022. The geopolitical tensions surrounding the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz are exacerbating the energy crisis, with the International Energy Agency warning of potential supply shortages in the upcoming months.