"Home Depot's 2024 Outlook: Struggling Sales and Earnings"

Home Depot forecasts weak 2024 results below analysts' estimates, citing lackluster demand due to customers limiting home-related spending to repairs and maintenance amid inflation. The company's shares fell after reporting a bigger-than-expected drop in fourth-quarter sales, with foot traffic declining and transactions logging their eleventh straight quarterly decline. While the home-improvement industry is expected to recover in the second half of the year, analysts believe Home Depot will continue to experience near-term pressure.