TGT reports flattish comps -- in-line with expectations. But more importantly says that tight expense controls and better gross margins (markups better, markdowns fewer) will lead EPS to be "well above First Call estimates". Credit quality is now coming in line vs. a trend of coming in slightly below plans.
Bad timing for Ackman's townhall meeting on Monday where he's showcasing his director slate. He's been making lots of noise about how current management has lost control of the business and touch with where the market is heading (i.e. value pricing). Seems to be in control at the moment, and with higher profits.
