Costco shares reach record high as investors track institutional holdings

Costco Wholesale Corp.’s stock climbed to an all‑time high of $1,094 per share in May before slipping about 14% to $929.22 by July 20. The retailer’s price‑to‑earnings ratio sits near 47, reflecting high market expectations despite recent volatility.

Institutional activity shows mixed moves. First Citizens Bank & Trust sold roughly 66% of its position, cutting its stake to 5,900 shares worth about $5.9 million. At the same time, firms such as Vanguard Group, Geode Capital Management, Morgan Stanley and Diamant Asset Management increased their holdings, collectively accounting for a larger share of the company’s 68.48% institutional ownership.

Analysts note the stock’s strong five‑year return of 126%, but caution that timing of any further gains remains uncertain, and a pullback may be advisable for new investors.