Walmart promises raises for 425,000 workers after strong holiday sales

Walmart Inc. said it would raise wages for about 425,000 of its employees after a year in which the Covid-19 pandemic boosted its business and demand for workers who handle online orders.

The company reported strong holiday sales but predicted slower growth and higher spending this year. After surging last year, the company’s stock fell 6% in trading Thursday.

Congress is debating whether to raise the federal minimum wage from $7.25 an hour. The Biden administration’s proposal, part of a Covid-19 stimulus relief package, seeks to increase it to $15 over four years.